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Halk Maslahaty of Turkmenistan outlines the key priorities for Turkmenistan’s development
19.09.2026The Halk Maslahaty of Turkmenistan holds a special place in the country’s socio-political system as the highest representative body representing the interests of the people. Its work involves examining issues relating to state and public life, discussing strategic directions for development, and taking into account proposals from representatives of various regions and civil society organisations. One of the key events in the Halk Maslahaty of Turkmenistan’s calendar for 2026 will be its next session, which is to be held on 23 September in Ashgabat at the ‘Maslahat köşgi’ Palace in the run-up to the 35th anniversary of Turkmenistan’s independence, a fact which lends the event a special significance. Preparations for this session began in July. On 10 July, the President of Turkmenistan, Serdar Berdimuhamedov, issued instructions on organising preparations for the Halk Maslahaty session and the celebrations marking the 35th anniversary of the country’s independence. On 15 July, a meeting of the Presidium of the Halk Maslahaty was held, chaired by the National Leader of the Turkmen people and Chairman of the Halk Maslahaty, Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov. At this meeting, issues relating to the convening of the nationwide forum were discussed, the date and venue were determined, an Organising Committee was established and its membership approved. Particular attention was paid to the preparation of materials, the coordination of actions by state bodies and public organisations, media coverage, public outreach and the consideration of proposals from citizens. The Mejlis, the Cabinet of Ministers, ministries and departments, administrations, political parties and civil society organisations are all involved in preparing for the meeting. Work is also being carried out at regional level. Meetings and conferences are being held in the velayat, etrap and city Halk Maslahaty, where issues relating to the forthcoming forum are being discussed, and work is underway on proposals and appeals from the public. The international dimension of the preparations for the session has been reflected in a series of events organised abroad. Turkmenistan’s diplomatic missions in foreign countries are holding conferences and round-table discussions dedicated to the forthcoming session. Participants in these meetings included representatives of the Turkmen diaspora, students, lecturers, academics, parliamentarians, journalists and public figures. Furthermore, preparations for the session include the work of state and civil society organisations within the country, collaboration with the regions, gathering proposals from citizens, preparing materials and, at the same time, informing an international audience about the forthcoming forum and the related areas of state policy. From an institutional perspective, this highlights several distinctive features of the Halk Maslahaty’s current activities. On the one hand, this nationwide forum brings together representatives from various levels of the state and civil society. On the other hand, its activities involve considering long-term development issues and proposals received from regional and civil society levels. It is precisely this combination of elements that defines the significance of the forthcoming session. It is taking place in a commemorative year for the country, when the achievements of 35 years of independence are being assessed, current socio-economic indicators are being reviewed, and objectives for the future are being formulated. The meeting on 23 September can therefore be regarded as one stage in a broader process of defining the future direction of Turkmenistan’s development. Its substantive agenda will centre on the issues put forward for discussion, the proposals received, and the decisions that will determine the future direction of work. The forthcoming session of the People’s Council will not only form part of the events marking the 35th anniversary of Turkmenistan’s independence, but will also serve as an important forum for discussing the country’s development.
The Head of Turkmenistan highlighted the role of the Humanitarian Association of Turkmen Worldwide
19.09.2026The President of Turkmenistan, Serdar Berdimuhamedov, has extended his congratulations to the participants of the 27th conference of the Humanitarian Association of Turkmen Worldwide, which is taking place in Ashgabat on the eve of the country’s 35th anniversary of independence. This was reported by the news agency TDH. In his message, the Head of State highlighted the role of the Humanitarian Association of Turkmen Worldwide in strengthening ties between compatriots living in different countries, as well as in promoting the national culture, traditions and history of Turkmenistan. The President of Turkmenistan emphasised that, over the 35 years since its establishment, the Association has fostered cooperation in the fields of the economy, culture, science, education, healthcare, tourism and entrepreneurship. The organisation also contributes to the preservation and enrichment of the material and spiritual heritage of the Turkmen people. According to Serdar Berdimuhamedov, Turkmenistan’s independence and status of permanent neutrality have created the conditions for expanding international ties. The country currently maintains diplomatic relations with more than 160 states and is a member of 55 international and regional organisations. The Head of State made a special point of emphasising the importance of cooperation with countries home to the Turkmen diaspora. Among the Association’s main objectives, the President of Turkmenistan cited the expansion of economic, cultural and humanitarian ties with the historical homeland, as well as the promotion of national culture, art and traditions. Serdar Berdimuhamedov expressed his confidence that Turkmen people around the world would continue to participate in promoting Turkmenistan’s initiatives in the fields of peace, security and international cooperation. In conclusion, Serdar Berdimuhamedov congratulated the participants on the start of the 27th Conference and wished them good health, well-being and success.
Turkmenistan is set to develop its chemical industry and museum sector
19.09.2026The President of Turkmenistan has signed two resolutions aimed at developing the chemical industry and improving museum services. This was reported by the online news site AsmanNews. The first Resolution instructs the State Concern ‘Türkmenhimiýa’ to ensure the effective operation of the ‘Tejenkarbamid’ plant. The Resolution is aimed at the further development of the domestic chemical industry and the modernisation of its material and technical base. The second Resolution provides for the further development of the country’s museums and museum services. The document is aimed at promoting the rich heritage and history of the Turkmen people, as well as preserving cultural treasures for future generations.
The UN marks the International Day of Peace
19.09.202621 September marks the International Day of Peace, proclaimed by the UN General Assembly. On this day, the symbolic ‘Peace Bell’ is traditionally rung at the UN headquarters in New York, according to IIC of Turkmenistan. Conferences, humanitarian and educational initiatives dedicated to strengthening a culture of peace and trust are held in various countries. These events also aim to promote the peaceful resolution of conflicts, respect for international law and the development of dialogue. For Turkmenistan, the issues of peace and neutrality occupy an important place in its foreign policy. The country links these to the development of international dialogue, the maintenance of stability and the expansion of cooperation.
43 students from Turkmenistan have been awarded grants to study in China
19.09.2026A ceremony was held at the Embassy of the People’s Republic of China in Ashgabat to present acceptance letters to the successful applicants for the Chinese Government’s scholarship programme. Forty-three Turkmen students received the documents, according to the IIC of Turkmenistan. They will be able to study at universities in the PRC on educational grants provided by the Xinjiang Uyghur Autonomous Region of the PRC. Ji Shumin, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the PRC to Turkmenistan, congratulated the students and their parents on successfully passing the competitive selection process. At the same time, the study of the Chinese language is expanding in Turkmenistan. It is being studied by around 1,000 students at nine higher education institutions and around 6,000 pupils at ten secondary schools across the country. Currently, more than 10,000 citizens of Turkmenistan are studying at universities in the PRC. Around 350 of them are studying under inter-governmental agreements.
The Foreign Affairs Ministry of Turkmenistan discussed priorities for the 81st session of the UN General Assembly
19.09.2026On 18 September, a briefing was held at the Foreign Affairs Ministry of Turkmenistan on the country’s priorities for the 81st session of the UN General Assembly and on cooperation with international and regional organisations. This was reported by the press office of the Foreign Affairs Ministry of Turkmenistan. The key areas highlighted included peace, security and neutrality; sustainable development; transport; energy; climate; environmental protection; humanitarian cooperation; and international law. Particular attention was paid to preventive diplomacy, the strengthening of international trust and the peaceful resolution of disputes. In the economic sphere, discussions centred on international trade and economic cooperation and Turkmenistan’s accession to the World Trade Organisation. In the transport sector, attention was drawn to the UN Decade of Sustainable Transport for 2026–2035 and the Global Atlas of Sustainable Transport Connectivity. Initiatives in the fields of energy, climate and water resources were also presented, including the Caspian Environmental Initiative and the establishment of the UN Special Programme for the Aral Sea Basin. In the humanitarian sphere, issues relating to healthcare, education, youth, the empowerment of women and the preservation of cultural heritage were addressed. To conclude, the participants exchanged views on topical issues on the international and regional agenda.
Turkmenistan and the FAO are introducing an animal traceability system
19.09.2026The State Association of the Livestock and Poultry Industry of Turkmenistan, in collaboration with the FAO, is implementing a project to establish a National Strategy for the Registration and Traceability of Farm Animals. This was reported by Turkmenportal. The ‘Şa Ýoly’ livestock complex in the Ahal velayat has been selected as the pilot site. Here, young cattle are being tagged and microchipped in stages. The second phase of fitting animals with electronic microchips is currently underway. The system will enable the creation of a unified digital database of animals and simplify the work of veterinary services, relevant government departments, livestock associations and farms. The project aims to improve animal health monitoring, prevent diseases, enhance the quality of veterinary services and strengthen food security. The system will also ensure product traceability and enable the verification of its origin. In the long term, there are plans to extend the project to livestock farms throughout the country.
Turkmenistan showcased its Ahal-Teke horses at the Red Crescent forum in Istanbul
19.09.2026Representatives of the National Red Crescent Society of Turkmenistan (NRCS) took part in the 2nd Volunteer Camp and experience-sharing programme organised by the Turkic Red Network (TRN) Secretariat with the support of the Turkish Red Crescent. This was reported by the news website Turkmenportal. Representatives from Kazakhstan, Turkmenistan, Hungary, Cyprus, Kyrgyzstan, Uzbekistan, Azerbaijan and Turkey took part in the events. The NRCS delegation comprised three volunteers from the Balkan and Lebap velayats and Ashgabat, as well as two staff members of the organisation. The volunteer camp took place from 31 August to 5 September on Heybeliada Island, whilst the experience-sharing programme ran from 6 to 12 September in Istanbul. The camp was aimed at developing the volunteers’ leadership skills and strengthening cooperation between national societies. The programme included seminars and practical sessions on providing assistance during emergencies. As part of the practical exercises, an earthquake simulation was carried out: participants, who had been assigned roles in advance, administered first aid, worked in the emergency response centre, pitched tents and organised meals for those affected. In the evenings, the delegations showcased the national culture and traditions of their countries, as well as the activities of their national Red Crescent Societies. The Turkmenistan delegation gave a presentation on Ahal-Teke horses, timed to coincide with the Year of ‘Independent Neutral Turkmenistan − the Homeland of Purposeful Winged Horses’ and the 35th anniversary of the country’s independence. The experience-sharing programme in Istanbul was designed for staff of national societies and included practical training in emergency preparedness and response, as well as the exchange of expertise in the areas of volunteering, disaster risk reduction and strengthening community resilience.
Turkmenistan took part in the 70th session of the IAEA General Conference
19.09.2026A delegation from Turkmenistan, headed by Azat Ovezov, Deputy Minister of Health and the Medical Industry, is taking part in the 70th session of the IAEA General Conference, which is being held in Vienna from 14 to 18 September. The year 2026 will mark the 10th anniversary of Turkmenistan’s accession to the Agency, reports the news agency Orient. During the visit, the Head of the Turkmen delegation held a bilateral meeting with the Director General of the IAEA, Rafael Mariano Grossi. The parties discussed cooperation in the field of healthcare, the strengthening of the regulatory framework and the use of nuclear technologies for sustainable development. Particular attention was paid to the development of Turkmenistan’s cancer care services. Rafael Grossi noted the country’s efforts to modernise its specialist infrastructure, including in connection with the forthcoming opening in Ashgabat of the International Scientific and Clinical Centre for Oncology, established with the support of the IAEA. The parties also discussed the application of isotope hydrology methods for monitoring and managing water resources. In its statement at the plenary session, the Turkmen delegation reaffirmed its commitment to the principles of nuclear non-proliferation, nuclear safety and the peaceful use of technology. The delegation took part in the IAEA Scientific Forum ‘Rays of Hope: Delivering on the Promise of Cancer Care’, presenting Turkmenistan’s approach to the implementation of radiotherapy and nuclear medicine. On the sidelines of the conference, the Permanent Mission of Turkmenistan to the IAEA held a seminar entitled ‘Atoms for LLDCs: From Commitment to Action – Nuclear Science for the Implementation of the Awaza Programme of Action’. The event was attended by Najat Mokhtar, Deputy Director General of the IAEA, representatives of the WHO and international experts. The seminar focused on expanding access to radiation technologies for landlocked countries, training medical personnel and attracting investment in healthcare.
Turkmenistan and ‘Daewoo E&C’ have signed a memorandum on the Karakum Canal
19.09.2026The South Korean construction and engineering company ‘Daewoo E&C’ intends to expand its operations in the Turkmen market by offering solutions in the fields of water management and environmental infrastructure. This was reported by the Orient news agency. On the sidelines of the Turkmen-Korean Business Forum in Seoul, ‘Daewoo E&C’ CEO Lee Kang-seok and the Chairman of Turkmenistan’s State Committee for Water Management, Durdy Genjiev, signed a Memorandum of Understanding on cooperation in the project to modernise the Karakum Canal. The signing took place following on from agreements reached during the state visit by the President of Turkmenistan, Serdar Berdimuhamedov, to the Republic of Korea, when the parties agreed on the introduction of South Korean water-saving technologies. ‘Daewoo E&C’ is considering the possibility of participating in the reconstruction of a section of the canal approximately 250 kilometres long. The Karakum Canal is an irrigation artery approximately 1,100 kilometres long, running from east to west across Turkmenistan from the Amu Darya and supplying water to the country’s agriculture, industry and settlements. The company’s entry into the Turkmen market is linked to the plans of ‘Daewoo E&C’ Chairman, Jung Won-Ju, to develop business in Central Asia with Turkmenistan as a base. Since 2023, he has visited Ashgabat on several occasions for negotiations with the country’s leadership and ministries. In May last year, ‘Daewoo E&C’ signed a contract worth $784 million with the State Concern ‘Türkmenhimiýa’ to build a mineral fertiliser plant in Turkmenabat with an annual capacity of 350,000 tonnes of phosphate fertiliser and 100,000 tonnes of ammonium sulphate. According to the South Korean publication Insight.co.kr, the company also hopes to participate in projects involving the construction of petrochemical complexes, the development of gas fields, and the expansion of the railway network and urban infrastructure. ‘Daewoo E&C’ notes that the agreements reached form the basis for the company’s continued involvement in the modernisation of Turkmenistan’s infrastructure.
Turkmenistan took part in the ‘Secure ID 2026’ forum in Istanbul
19.09.2026The international forum ‘Secure ID 2026’ – one of the world’s leading events in the field of biometrics, electronic documents and border control systems – took place in Istanbul on 15–16 September. This was reported by the press office of the Migration Service of Turkmenistan. The forum was attended by representatives from a number of foreign countries and regional organisations, as well as a delegation from the State Migration Service of Turkmenistan. The forum’s programme covered issues relating to the introduction of digital identity cards and electronic passports, the modernisation of border control systems and electronic visas, biometric security, the application of artificial intelligence and cybersecurity. Participants noted that work is underway in the field of migration to introduce high-tech methods. An international exhibition was also held as part of the forum, showcasing international best practice and the latest equipment for identity verification and border security.
Turkmenistan took part in a UNHCR seminar on asylum issues
19.09.2026A training seminar on improving the asylum system, held to mark the 75th anniversary of the 1951 Convention Relating to the Status of Refugees, took place in Geneva on 15–16 September at the headquarters of the Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR). This was reported by the press office of the Migration Service of Turkmenistan. The event was attended by representatives of a number of foreign states and international organisations, including the State Migration Service of Turkmenistan. Seminar participants exchanged experiences, presented case studies and discussed international practices for responding to migration flows. Among the topics covered were broadening access to asylum procedures, introducing mechanisms to identify vulnerable groups and protecting victims of human trafficking. The parties also discussed approaches to bringing national protection systems into line with international standards and methods of inter-agency cooperation. Following the seminar, the parties announced their intention to develop their partnership in this area.
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