News
A student from Turkmenistan has been named a winner of the 2026 Charles Scott Prize
06.08.2026Arslan Hojanazarov, a student at Heriot-Watt University in Edinburgh, has become one of the twelve winners of the 2026 Charles Scott Award, established by the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Scotland (ICAS). This was reported by the IIC of Turkmenistan. The award is presented annually to students at partner universities for outstanding academic achievement and professional potential in the field of accountancy, following an internal selection process by the educational institutions. Winners receive a cash prize of £150, mentoring support, opportunities for professional networking and official recognition from ICAS. The 2026 winners also include representatives from the universities of Glasgow, Aberdeen, Edinburgh, Strathclyde and other Scottish universities. The awards ceremony took place at ICAS’s headquarters – CA House in Edinburgh – where participants learnt about opportunities to qualify as chartered accountants and develop professional networks.
Ashgabat and Tokyo discussed the development of tourism
06.08.2026On 4 August, A. Bayramov, Ambassador of Turkmenistan to Japan, met with Y. Hara, the newly elected chairman of the Japan Association of Travel Agents (JATA). This was reported by the press office of the Embassy of Turkmenistan in Japan. A. Bayramov congratulated Y. Hara on his election as Chairman. The parties discussed the further development of tourism cooperation between the two countries. Turkmenistan’s cooperation with JATA began in 2013 with its participation in the ‘JATA Travel Showcase’ exhibition. Since then, it has steadily expanded. Key events include the ‘Tourism Potential of Turkmenistan’ conference held in Tokyo in 2014 and the international conference ‘Turkmenistan – The Land of Friendship and Hospitality’, which took place in Osaka in 2025 as part of ‘EXPO 2025’. Separately, the parties discussed the prospects for establishing direct air links between Turkmenistan and Japan, as well as expanding cooperation between the relevant government departments and tourism companies in both countries.
Turkmenistan took part in a meeting on the CAREC Digital Corridor
06.08.2026On 29–30 July 2026, a delegation from the Ministry of Communications of Turkmenistan took part in a consultative meeting on the Digital Corridor under the Central Asia Regional Economic Cooperation (CAREC) Programme in Islamabad. This was reported by the press office of the Foreign Affairs Ministry of Turkmenistan. The meeting was attended by Shaza Fatima Khawaja, Pakistan’s Federal Minister for Information Technology and Telecommunications, Emma Fan, Director of the Asian Development Bank’s Office in Pakistan, as well as delegations from nine CAREC member countries — comprising representatives of government bodies, telecoms operators, regulatory authorities, international organisations, development partners and technical experts. The Turkmen delegation reaffirmed the country’s commitment to the development of regional economic cooperation, digital transformation and joint initiatives to enhance connectivity among the region’s states. Representatives from Turkmenistan highlighted the importance of establishing a modern CAREC digital space as a driver of sustainable economic growth, the expansion of cross-border digital services and regional integration. They also briefed forum participants on the modernisation of the country’s telecommunications infrastructure, the development of digital public services and the implementation of modern digital solutions, including in the healthcare sector.
The Turkmenistan Ambassador took part in the celebrations in California
05.08.2026Celebrations marking the 35th anniversary of Turkmenistan’s independence took place in the San Diego area (California, USA). The event was organised by Fit International and attended by representatives of the local authorities, the public, the media and friends of Turkmenistan, according to the news website Turkmenportal. Turkmenistan’s Ambassador to the US, Esen Aydogdyev, took part in the celebrations. He congratulated those present on the 250th anniversary of US independence and noted that celebrating the independence anniversaries of the two countries underscores the importance of sovereignty, national identity, peaceful development and mutual respect between states. The highlight of the programme was the presentation of a book by the President of Turkmenistan, Serdar Berdimuhamedov, entitled ‘Neutrality of Turkmenistan – A Bright Way of Peace and Trust’. The event was also attended by Kirt Edwards, Head of Fit International, who congratulated the people of Turkmenistan on Independence Day and wished them peace, well-being and prosperity. According to the embassy, the event once again demonstrated the spirit of friendship and mutual respect between Turkmenistan and the US.
Turkmenistan and the IPC discussed the development of parliamentary dialogue
05.08.2026The Secretary-General of the International Parliamentary Congress (IPC), Senator Sitara Ayaz, visited the Embassy of Turkmenistan in the Islamic Republic of Pakistan on 4 August 2026. This was reported by the press office of the Turkmen diplomatic mission. During the meeting with the Turkmen Ambassador, A. Movlamov, the parties discussed the development of cooperation between Turkmenistan and the International Parliamentary Congress (IPC), the strengthening of inter-parliamentary ties and the expansion of cooperation between the Mejlis of Turkmenistan and the Congress. Particular attention was paid to the organisation of international conferences, round-table discussions and parliamentary forums involving representatives from Central Asian countries. It was noted that such platforms facilitate the exchange of experience in the field of law-making and the development of parliamentary diplomacy. The Ambassador of Turkmenistan expressed support for the further strengthening of inter-parliamentary relations. Senator Sitara Ayaz highlighted the importance of Turkmenistan’s neutral policy and expressed her gratitude for the constructive dialogue. The parties reaffirmed their readiness to continue regular engagement and to develop joint initiatives in the field of parliamentary cooperation.
A meeting between the Ambassadors of Turkmenistan and the State of Kuwait took place in Dushanbe
05.08.2026On 4 August in Dushanbe, the Ambassador of Turkmenistan to the Republic of Tajikistan, A. Gochmyradov, met with the Ambassador of the State of Kuwait, Mohammad Rashid Al-Amiri, who had arrived on a courtesy visit to mark the start of his diplomatic mission. This was reported by the press office of the Turkmen diplomatic mission. The parties noted the steady development of Turkmen-Kuwaiti relations with the support of the leaders of both states. The Kuwaiti Ambassador thanked the Turkmen side for its assistance in ensuring the safe transit of Kuwaiti citizens through Turkmenistan due to the situation in the Middle East. At the same time, Turkmenistan’s commitment to the principles of humanism, good neighbourliness and international cooperation was emphasised. The interlocutors also noted that the opening of the Embassy of the State of Kuwait in Dushanbe creates further opportunities for expanding cooperation in the political-diplomatic, trade-economic and cultural-humanitarian spheres. During the meeting, an exchange of views took place on topical issues on the regional and international agenda. The parties reaffirmed their interest in continuing constructive dialogue. At the conclusion of the meeting, the Ambassador of Turkmenistan briefed the Kuwaiti diplomat on the events dedicated to the 2026 motto ‘Independent Neutral Turkmenistan − the Homeland of Purposeful Winged Horses’ and the 35th anniversary of Turkmenistan’s independence, and presented a book by the National Leader of the Turkmen people and Chairman of the Halk Maslahaty of Turkmenistan, Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov, entitled ‘A Horse – A Symbol of Faithfulness and Happiness’.
A system for the protection of maternal and child health is being developed in Turkmenistan
05.08.2026In Turkmenistan, implementation is continuing of the National Programme for the Protection of Maternal and Child Health for 2026–2030, ‘Healthy Mother – Healthy Child – Healthy Future’, approved by a Resolution of the President of Turkmenistan on 20 June 2026. The document aims to improve reproductive health, reduce maternal and child morbidity and mortality, and expand access to high-quality healthcare, according to the news agency TDH. The programme provides for disease prevention, early diagnosis, improvements to medical care for women during the antenatal and postnatal periods, the development of a screening system, support for families and improved training for medical staff. There are plans to review the educational programmes of relevant educational institutions, introduce new specialisms and increase student intake. In addition, the country is continuing to implement state programmes in the healthcare sector, including the ‘Saglyk’ (‘Health’) State Programme. Particular attention is being paid to breastfeeding and the prevention of iron-deficiency anaemia, iodine deficiency and vitamin D deficiency. According to the 2023 National Micronutrient Survey, the prevalence of anaemia among women of reproductive age, pregnant women and children has decreased compared with 2011. The development of preventive medicine, the promotion of a healthy lifestyle, physical education and sport, as well as the improvement of the primary healthcare system, remain key priorities. The modernisation of medical infrastructure is continuing. Across the country’s regions, clinics, research and clinical centres, health centres and maternal and child health centres are being built and refurbished. Healthcare facilities are being supplied with modern equipment, medicines, consumables and specialised transport. The programme provides for the further development of the regional maternal and child health system, the introduction of modern clinical protocols, the strengthening of the regulatory framework and the expansion of international cooperation. Particular attention is paid to reproductive health, the prevention of infertility, the early detection of congenital and acquired diseases, and the maintenance of high immunisation coverage. In accordance with the National Immunisation Schedule, children are vaccinated against 14 infectious diseases. The procurement of vaccines approved by the World Health Organisation is funded from the state budget. Support continues in the country for children without parental care, as do the activities of the Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov Charitable Foundation for Assistance to Children in Need of Guardianship, which funds treatment, operations, rehabilitation and the purchase of medical equipment. The national programme will be implemented in two phases: between 2026 and 2028, the main activities will be carried out and an interim assessment of the results will be conducted; between 2029 and 2030, the programme will be completed and its targets achieved.
The Turkmenistan U-17 national team will start in Pot 2 of the Asian Cup qualifiers
05.08.2026Turkmenistan’s U-17 football team has been placed in Pot 2 ahead of the draw for the 2027 AFC U-17 Championship qualifiers, which is due to take place on 27 August. The final stage of the tournament will be held in Uzbekistan from 12 to 29 May 2027, according to IIC of Turkmenistan. Nine participants in the final stage have already been determined following the results of the previous edition. In addition to Uzbekistan, these include the national teams of Australia, Saudi Arabia, Tajikistan, Japan, China, Vietnam, the Republic of Korea and Qatar. The remaining seven places will be contested in a single qualifying round from 8 to 20 November 2026. Thirty-five teams will take part, divided into seven groups. The group winners will progress to the final stage. In the second pot, alongside Turkmenistan, are the national teams of Malaysia, Iraq, Bangladesh, Myanmar, Kuwait and Laos, so they will not face each other in the group stage. The first pot comprises Yemen, Thailand, Indonesia, the UAE, India, Oman and Iran, whilst the third pot includes Afghanistan, Syria, Bahrain, Jordan, Kyrgyzstan, Hong Kong and Palestine. The fourth and fifth pots comprise the national teams of Pakistan, Mongolia, Singapore, Lebanon, the Philippines, Chinese Taipei, Bhutan, Cambodia, Macau, Brunei, the Northern Mariana Islands, the Maldives, Sri Lanka and Guam.
A delegation from Turkmenistan visited the Peelbergen centre in the Netherlands
05.08.2026A delegation from Turkmenistan, led by Tangryguly Atahallyev, Deputy Chairman of the Cabinet of Ministers, visited the Peelbergen Equestrian Centre in Kronenberg as part of a working visit to the Kingdom of the Netherlands, where it inspected the preparations for the upcoming international event. This was reported by the press office of the Turkmen diplomatic mission. The Turkmen representatives met with the centre’s management and equestrian specialists. The parties discussed organisational, technical and protocol matters, including the programme, accommodation for participants, and the staging of sporting, cultural and exhibition events. The delegation toured the sports facilities, training areas and infrastructure of the centre, and also observed the training of Turkmen specialists undergoing training in show jumping. The importance of further professional cooperation between specialists from Turkmenistan and the Netherlands was emphasised. Particular attention was paid to the venues where an exhibition of Turkmen products is to be held, as well as displays by foreign companies and international brands operating in the field of equestrian sports and horse breeding. The parties also discussed issues relating to coordination, security, technical support and the layout of the venues. It was noted that this will be the first time the event has been held outside Turkmenistan, and that its programme will combine sporting, cultural, exhibition and business events. Following the visit, confidence was expressed that the event will help to promote Ahal-Teke horses and foster international cooperation in the field of equestrian sports.
Students from Turkmenistan won six gold medals at IMC-2026
05.08.2026Turkmen students won 6 gold and 3 silver medals at the 33rd International Mathematics Competition (IMC-2026), held from 27 July to 4 August 2026 in Blagoevgrad, Bulgaria. This was reported by the press office of the Magtymguly Turkmen State University. Around 450 students from various countries took part in the competition. Turkmenistan was represented by students from the Magtymguly Turkmen State University, the International University for the Humanities and Development, the Yagshygeldi Kakayev International University of Oil and Gas, the Turkmen State Institute of Economics and Management, the Turkmen State Institute of Architecture and Construction, the Seyitnazar Seydi Turkmen State Pedagogical Institute, and the State Energy Institute of Turkmenistan.
The Ambassadors of Turkmenistan and Italy held a meeting in Islamabad
05.08.2026On 3 August 2026, Atajan Movlamov, Ambassador of Turkmenistan to the Islamic Republic of Pakistan, met with Ugo Ciarlatani, Ambassador of the Italian Republic to Pakistan. This was reported by the press office of the Turkmen diplomatic mission. During the meeting, the parties discussed the current state and prospects for the development of Turkmen-Italian relations, as well as ways to further strengthen bilateral cooperation. Particular attention was paid to the activities of the diplomatic corps in Islamabad, interaction between the missions, and cooperation with Pakistani government bodies and the business community. The parties reaffirmed their readiness to continue regular dialogue, develop professional interaction and strengthen friendly ties between Turkmenistan and Italy.
The Turkmenistan Ambassador discussed the development of horse breeding with a French expert
05.08.2026On 3 August, M. Charyev, Ambassador of Turkmenistan to the French Republic, met with Alexandre Gros, a national technical expert at the French Equestrian Federation. This was reported by the Orient news agency. The parties discussed the training of specialists in the field, the exchange of international expertise, and the prospects for the development of Turkmen-French cooperation in the field of horse breeding. The participants also reviewed preparations for the World Equestrian Championships and the International Ahal-Teke Horse Beauty Contest, which are to be held on 4–6 September 2026 in Kronenberg (Kingdom of the Netherlands). Alexander Gros confirmed his willingness to deliver a presentation on the history of the Ahal-Teke breed in France at an international scientific conference to be held as part of the championships. In addition, the prospects for cooperation between the Aba Annayev International Academy of Horse Breeding and relevant French institutions were discussed, including the training of Turkmen trainers and instructors and the adoption of international best practice. Following the meeting, Alexander Gros highlighted Turkmenistan’s efforts to preserve and develop the Ahal-Teke breed, and expressed his willingness to help promote the country’s national equestrian heritage.
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