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Turkmenistan at the Education World Forum 2026: Digital Development of Education
20.05.2026From 17 to 21 May, a delegation from the Ministry of Education of Turkmenistan, led by Deputy Minister Azat Ataev, is participating in the Education World Forum 2026 in London—one of the key international platforms focused on education policy, digital transformation, and human capital development, according to the press service of the Ministry of Education of Turkmenistan. Within the forum, the Turkmen delegation presented initiatives on climate and environmental education, including the National Climate Plan, the “Green School” project, and cooperation with UNICEF on developing STEM approaches and digital learning tools. The delegation also participated in sessions on the digital transformation of education and held a series of meetings with international organizations and companies, including Classera, ClassLink, Times Higher Education, Pearson, ETS, Project Management Institute, Matific, and British Council. Discussions covered the digitalization of schools and universities, the introduction of AI in education, international certification, development of management KPIs, participation of universities in global rankings, and improving the quality of educational data. Special attention was given to pilot projects in personalized learning, educational data analytics, and digital infrastructure, as well as the development of English language education within the AELLCA program. A meeting was also held with representatives of the British government, discussing prospects for further cooperation between Turkmenistan and the United Kingdom in education. Participation in the forum contributes to strengthening international partnerships, sharing experience, and promoting digital and analytical approaches in the management of Turkmenistan’s education system.
A key stage of the international Silk Way Rally was held in Turkmenistan
20.05.2026The key stage of the international rally “Silk Way: West – East”, which passes through 19 countries, has been completed in Turkmenistan. From 13 to 18 May, participants covered challenging sections of the route — ranging from extreme off-road terrain to modern highways, according to the IIC. The race passed through Turkmenbashi and Ashgabat deep into the Karakum Desert, reaching the gas crater known as Garagum ýalkymy gas crater. Delegations from Germany, Türkiye, Italy, and other countries observed this natural phenomenon at sunset and described it as one of the most impressive highlights of the route. Along the way, participants also saw modern infrastructure and environmental projects in the country, including Altyn Asyr Lake. Organizers and drivers highly praised the level of organization of the stage and the development of motorsport in the region. The final point of the Turkmen section was Dashoguz, where competitors were welcomed and provided with rest. On the morning of 18 May, crews continued their journey to Uzbekistan, heading toward the rally finale in Mongolia.
Turkmenistan explores electricity export via underwater cable in the Caspian Sea
20.05.2026Turkmenistan is studying the possibility of participating in a project to lay a power cable along the seabed of the Caspian Sea for electricity exports. This was stated by Abdulla Dzhelilov, a senior officer of the Department of Foreign Economic Relations and Export of the State Electric Power Corporation “Turkmenenergo” under the Ministry of Energy of Turkmenistan, on the sidelines of the 13th session of the World Urban Forum (WUF13), according to the online publication “Business Turkmenistan”. According to him, construction of a combined-cycle power plant with a capacity of 1,574 MW is ongoing in Turkmenbashi, which in the future could become a base for electricity exports. After the facility is commissioned, the option of supplies via an underwater cable to Azerbaijan is being considered, with further access to external markets. The project could be economically beneficial for all parties, and Azerbaijan is seen as a key transit route for further exports.
Turkmenistan Presented the City of Arkadag as a “Smart City” Model at WUF13
20.05.2026Chairman of the State Committee for the Construction of the city of Arkadag, Deryageldi Orazov, speaking at the Leaders’ Summit within the framework of the 13th session of the World Urban Forum (WUF13) in Baku, stated that modern urbanization requires the integration of technology, architecture, and environmental solutions. This was reported by the Orient information agency. Orazov congratulated Azerbaijan and UN-Habitat on the opening of the forum, thanked President Ilham Aliyev for the hospitality, and noted that WUF13 opens new opportunities for sustainable urban development. As an example, he presented the city of Arkadag, describing it as a safe, environmentally friendly, and “smart” project that has quickly gained international recognition. Orazov emphasized that the city’s concept was developed at the initiative of the National Leader of the Turkmen people and Chairman of the Halk Maslahaty of Turkmenistan, Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov, taking into account the region’s natural and climatic conditions, seismic activity, and infrastructure, which helped ensure environmental balance. According to him, the introduction of digital technologies integrated city services into a unified management system and improved the quality of life, making the experience of Arkadag of interest to the international community.
Turkmenistan and Uzbekistan Strengthen Parliamentary Ties
20.05.2026On May 18, a meeting of members of the Turkmen-Uzbek interparliamentary friendship groups was held at the Mejlis of Turkmenistan. During the talks, the parties discussed the current state and prospects of bilateral cooperation, noting that relations are actively developing thanks to the efforts of the leadership of both countries, including in the parliamentary sphere, according to the press service of the Mejlis of Turkmenistan. The Turkmen side presented the main directions of the country’s domestic and foreign policy, based on the principles of neutrality, peace, humanism, and trust, and also spoke about the structure of the Mejlis and its work on the legislative support of reforms. It was emphasized that Turkmen-Uzbek relations, founded on historical closeness and shared spiritual values, are reaching a new level of development. A special role in this process is assigned to interparliamentary dialogue, as well as cooperation between профиль committees and youth and women’s parliamentary groups. The parties also reviewed events organized within the framework of Turkmenistan’s chairmanship in the CIS, including the women’s dialogue and meetings of interparliamentary structures. Following the meeting, the sides expressed confidence in the further strengthening of friendly Turkmen-Uzbek relations and exchanged mutual good wishes.
The Forum of Parliamentarians of the Eurasian Group Opens in the Capital of Turkmenistan
20.05.2026On May 19, the 5th Forum of Parliamentarians of the member states of the Eurasian Group commenced in Ashgabat at the “Yyldyz” Hotel. This was reported by the press service of the Mejlis of Turkmenistan. The event is being held within the framework of the 44th plenary meeting of the Eurasian Group. The forum serves as a platform for strengthening cooperation between legislative and executive authorities in the field of combating the legalization of criminal proceeds. Such meetings help raise parliamentarians’ awareness of international standards and current threats, while also facilitating the exchange of experience in improving national legislation.
Turkmenistan and Egypt discussed cooperation within the UN
20.05.2026Permanent Representative of Turkmenistan to the United Nations Vepa Hajiyev held a meeting with Permanent Representative of the Arab Republic of Egypt to the UN Ehab Awad as part of regular contacts at the organization’s platform. This was reported by the IIC. The parties discussed a wide range of issues of mutual interest, paying special attention to the regional agenda and key international issues requiring joint efforts. Following the talks, the diplomats confirmed their intention to continue cooperation, strengthen coordination at multilateral platforms, and develop constructive dialogue between Turkmenistan and Egypt.
Turkmenistan’s Steps Toward WTO Accession Discussed at the Foreign Ministry
20.05.2026On May 19, a meeting was held at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Turkmenistan between Turkmen Foreign Minister Rashid Meredov and Maika Oshikawa, Director of the Accessions Division of the World Trade Organization (WTO). This was reported by the press service of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Turkmenistan. The parties discussed issues related to cooperation between Turkmenistan and the WTO, as well as further steps toward the country’s accession to the organization. The sides also touched upon regional and international trade and economic cooperation, as well as the improvement of the national legal and regulatory framework and cooperation with international institutions. The consistent nature of Turkmenistan’s cooperation with the WTO was noted. As part of Maika Oshikawa’s visit to Ashgabat, a meeting is planned with representatives of the Government Commission on Turkmenistan’s accession to the WTO.
The delegation of Turkmenistan discussed healthcare cooperation with the WHO Director-General
19.05.2026In Geneva, on the sidelines of the 79th session of the World Health Assembly, a meeting took place between the delegation of Turkmenistan and the Director-General of the WHO, Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus. The Turkmen side was led by the Deputy Minister of Health and Medical Industry, Azat Ovezov, according to the news website Turkmenportal. The parties discussed the development of cooperation in the field of healthcare and priorities in public health. The delegation also invited the WHO chief to visit Turkmenistan in October to participate in regional events. In addition, representatives of Turkmenistan are taking part in the assembly, where WHO member states are considering issues of global health and the sustainable development of healthcare systems.
Turkmenistan coordinated WHO negotiations with countries of the region
19.05.2026On May 17, an informal meeting of health ministers and heads of delegations from Turkmenistan, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, and Uzbekistan was held at the headquarters of the World Health Organization with the Regional Director of the WHO Regional Office for Europe, Hans Kluge. The event was coordinated by Turkmenistan, Turkmenportal reports. The main topic was the finalization of preparations for the Health and Well-being Roadmap for Central Asia for 2026–2030 (CAWR 2.0). The parties discussed its official approval, possible political launch, and integration with regional formats, including initiatives within the CIS. Following the meeting, participants confirmed agreement on CAWR 2.0 and its operational guidance. The document is ready to be submitted to the political level and to be launched for implementation. On the same day, Hans Kluge held a separate meeting with the Deputy Minister of Health and Medical Industry of Turkmenistan, Azat Ovezov. The development of regional cooperation and further strengthening of collaboration in the healthcare sector were discussed.
Turkmen chess players among prize winners at tournaments in Astana
19.05.2026In Astana, from May 14 to 17, team chess tournaments were held at the Kazakh National University of Sports: the first championship of the Turkic states among men and women (Turkic Teams Chess Championships 2026) and the youth chess Olympiad under 16 (Turkic Youth U16 Chess Olympiad 2026). This was reported by IIC. Teams from Azerbaijan, Kazakhstan (as the host country fielded two teams in each tournament), Kyrgyzstan, Turkmenistan, Turkey, and Uzbekistan participated in a round-robin format. Each team consisted of four main players, one reserve player, and a captain. The time control was 45+30. The total prize fund amounted to 27 million tenge (about 54 thousand USD). In the men’s tournament, 13 grandmasters and 18 international masters participated. The Turkmenistan national team included grandmasters Saparmyrat Atabayev (rating 2471) and Meylis Annaberdiev (rating 2425). According to the results, Kazakhstan teams took first and second places among men. Azerbaijan took third place. Saparmyrat Atabayev placed 3rd on board one. In the women’s tournament, Azerbaijan’s national team won (10 points). Kazakhstan took second place (9 points), and Uzbekistan came third. Turkmenistan’s women’s team finished fifth with 6 points. Lala Shokhradova took 3rd place on board one, and Jahan Rejepova took 2nd place on board three. In the U16 youth tournament, the top three included Azerbaijan’s team and two teams from Kazakhstan. Turkmenistan’s representative Dilber Khupbyeva took 3rd place on board four. The organizers were FIDE, the Ministry of Tourism and Sports of the Republic of Kazakhstan, the Kazakhstan Chess Federation, the Kazakh National University of Sports, and the Akimat of Astana.
Turkmen artists presented culture at a festival in Azerbaijan
19.05.2026From May 14 to 15, the 9th International “Xarı bülbül” Festival was held in the city of Shusha (Azerbaijan). Representatives of Turkmenistan took part in the event. According to the Ministry of Culture of Turkmenistan, the country was represented by the folk group “Galkynysh” of the State Concern “Turkmengaz”. The ensemble performed at the festival and presented the musical heritage of the Turkmen people, showcasing its cultural diversity and traditions.
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