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Turkmenistan announces international film competition on horse breeding
01.02.2026Turkmenistan has announced an interstate television competition for CIS countries entitled ‘The Flight of the Horse: Strength and Grace’, dedicated to the role of horses in the history and culture of the region’s peoples. This was reported by IIC. The choice of theme is linked to the Ahal-Teke breed, one of the oldest in the world, bred by the Turkmen people more than five thousand years ago and which has become a symbol of the country's national identity. The Ahal-Teke occupies a special place in the history, culture and state symbolism of Turkmenistan and embodies the independence and dignity of the people. In 2026, this theme is also reflected in the country's official motto. The development of horse breeding remains a priority of state policy: racetracks are being built in the country, scientific and educational facilities are being developed, and international cooperation is expanding. The competition is aimed at authors from CIS countries, which is logical in the year of Turkmenistan's chairmanship of the Commonwealth and its commitment to strengthening humanitarian and cultural ties. Television companies and independent authors of any age can participate. Films lasting 15-30 minutes in any language with subtitles in Russian or English, dedicated to the history of horse breeds, their cultural role and equestrian sports, are accepted.
Turkmenistan creates national strategy for artificial intelligence development
01.02.2026On 30 January, during a government meeting, Deputy Chairman of the Cabinet of Ministers of Turkmenistan Mammethan Chakyev reported on measures to digitise economic sectors and introduce innovative technologies. This was reported by the state news agency TDH. In accordance with the Concept for the Development of the Digital Economy in Turkmenistan for 2026-2028, a draft State Programme and an Action Plan for its implementation have been prepared. The documents are aimed at the transition to a digital economy, the development of a national strategy for the development of artificial intelligence, the introduction of AI technologies in the industry, as well as the training and professional development of specialists. In this regard, the Deputy Prime Minister presented a draft resolution. After hearing the report, President of Turkmenistan Serdar Berdimuhamedov signed the document and gave a number of instructions on the further development of digital technologies.
The ‘Single Window’ system speeds up exports and imports in Turkmenistan
01.02.2026In 2025, 189,954 licences and permits for export and import operations were issued in Turkmenistan through the ‘Single Window’ system. This is 2.7 times more than in 2024. This was reported by the website of the State Customs Service of Turkmenistan. More than 12,000 participants in foreign economic activity are registered in the system. The number of users continues to grow. The work of the ‘Single Window’ is coordinated by the Control and Analytical Centre of the Central Office of the State Customs Service. The system reduces the time required to process documents and speeds up foreign trade operations. The platform involves 19 ministries and departments, which provide 29 types of services. The service operates around the clock and processes about 1,000 permits per day.
An online scientific journal will be launched at Magtymguly TSU
01.02.2026President of Turkmenistan Serdar Berdimuhamedov has approved the creation of an electronic popular science magazine called ‘Scientific Research and Innovation’. The decision was made at a meeting of the Cabinet of Ministers, according to the publication ‘Turkmenistan: Golden age’. The new publication will be based at the Magtymguly Turkmen State University. The journal will be published in electronic format. Publications are planned to be available in Turkmen, English and Russian. The platform will be open to professors, teachers and students. The topics will cover the humanities and social sciences, as well as research in the field of national heritage and the cultural contribution of prominent figures. Special attention will be paid to the practical results of cooperation between science, education and the economy. The materials will be devoted to the implementation of developments and modern teaching methods.
The International Academy of Horse Breeding of Turkmenistan has signed an agreement with Qatar
01.02.2026The Aba Annayev International Academy of Horse Breeding and the Qatar Equestrian Federation have signed a Memorandum of Understanding. This was reported by Turkmenportal. The document was signed during a working visit by a delegation from the academy to the State of Qatar, which took place from 29 to 31 January at the invitation of the Equestrian Federation. The ceremony was attended by the President of the Qatar Equestrian Federation, Bader Mohammed Al-Darwish, the Deputy Executive Director of the Emir of Qatar's ‘Al Shaqab’ Equestrian Center, Khalid Abdullah Al-Hitmi, and the Rector of the Aba Annayev International Academy of Horse Breeding, Candidate of Agricultural Sciences, People's Horse Breeder of Turkmenistan Pygy Hojamuhammedov. The parties agreed to develop cooperation in the field of equestrian sports, science and education. The Memorandum is expected to strengthen the legal basis for cooperation, create conditions for the exchange of experience and training of specialists, and contribute to the expansion of bilateral ties.
International portal to feature Year of Winged Horses in Turkmenistan
01.02.2026With the assistance of the Embassy of Turkmenistan in Turkey, the ‘Turkic World’ portal is organising systematic and extensive coverage of events dedicated to the proclamation of 2026 as the Year of ‘Independent Neutral Turkmenistan − the Homeland of Purposeful Winged Horses’ in Turkmenistan. This was reported by the press service of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Turkmenistan. The information cooperation is aimed at providing a broad presentation of cultural, scientific and socio-political events that reflect the historical value of the country's independence, its unchanged status of permanent neutrality and rich spiritual heritage. Publications on the portal will help strengthen international information exchange, develop dialogue in the Turkic world and raise awareness among the global audience about Turkmenistan's modern achievements, its role in the region and global development.
Turkmenistan and Uzbekistan discussed cooperation in the field of water resources
01.02.2026On 30 January, the Fifth Meeting of the Joint Turkmen-Uzbek Intergovernmental Commission on Water Management Issues was held in Khiva. This was reported by the press service of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Turkmenistan. The Turkmen delegation was headed by Deputy Chairman of the Cabinet of Ministers of Turkmenistan Tangryguly Atahallyev, and the Uzbek delegation was headed by Shuhrat Ganiyev, Advisor to the President of the Republic of Uzbekistan on Agricultural Development. The meeting was attended by heads and representatives of relevant ministries and departments of the two countries responsible for water resources management, irrigation and environmental protection. The co-chairs of the commission noted the high level of bilateral relations based on the principles of good neighbourliness, mutual trust and equality. They emphasised the parties' desire to expand cooperation not only in the water sector, but also in other areas of economic, infrastructural and humanitarian interaction. During the meeting, the parties discussed the introduction of modern technologies for rational water use, the improvement of mechanisms for monitoring and accounting for water resources, the development of human resources in the sector, as well as issues of adaptation to climate change and the reduction of associated risks. The parties confirmed their intention to continue regular bilateral consultations and commission meetings, as well as to strengthen the legal and institutional framework for cooperation. Following the meeting, the Protocol of the Fifth Meeting of the Joint Turkmen-Uzbek Intergovernmental Commission on Water Management Issues was signed.
The Minister of Foreign Affairs of Turkmenistan presented a plan for preparations for the Year of International Law
31.01.2026On 30 January, during a government meeting, Rashid Meredov, Deputy Chairman of the Cabinet of Ministers of Turkmenistan and Minister of Foreign Affairs, presented the Action Plan for 2026 to prepare for the Year of International Law in 2028, initiated by Turkmenistan. This was reported by the state news agency TDH. The country's foreign policy priorities remain strengthening cooperation with the UN and its member states, participating in international initiatives on sustainable development, peace, security, transport, energy, ecology and the humanitarian sphere. Particular attention is being paid to the proposal by the President of Turkmenistan, Serdar Berdimuhamedov, to declare 2028 the Year of International Law. The plan provides for cooperation with the UN Office of Legal Affairs, the preparation of a draft resolution for the UN General Assembly, and the development of a national concept on ‘International Law and Neutrality of Turkmenistan.’ International and regional conferences, forums, round tables, educational events in schools and universities with the participation of experts, the preparation of training materials, competitions for young specialists and information support through the media and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs website are also planned. After hearing the report, the Head of State emphasised the importance of the initiative for strengthening the international legal framework and instructed the Minister of Foreign Affairs to ensure the implementation of the relevant measures.
The touristic ‘Eastern Express’ has increased interest in the regions of Turkey
31.01.2026The night train service between Ankara and Kars has become one of Turkey's most popular tourist routes. This was reported by Turkmenportal with reference to the Culture and Tourism Department of the Turkish Embassy in Turkmenistan. The touristic ‘Eastern Express’ runs three times a week. The train covers the route in about 24 hours. The carriages are equipped with sleeping compartments. The programme includes scheduled stops for excursions. The route passes through Kırıkkale, Kayseri, Sivas, Erzincan and Erzurum. On the way to Kars, the train stops in Erzincan and Erzurum, and on the return journey, it stops in Ilich, Divrigi and Sivas. The final destination is Kars. The city is known for its historical monuments, winter landscapes and regional cuisine. Nearby are the ruins of the ancient city of Ani, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The region is also home to the Sarikamish ski resort and Lake Çıldır on the border between Kars and Ardahan. In winter, the lake freezes completely. Here, tourists go sledding and watch ice fishing.
Turkmenistan and V.N. Tatishchev Astrakhan State University expand scientific and educational ties
31.01.2026The Consul of Turkmenistan in Astrakhan, Gadam Ilamanov, held a meeting with the Rector of Astrakhan State University (ASU) named after V.N. Tatishchev, Igor Alekseyev. This was reported by the news website Turkmenportal. The parties discussed the development of scientific and educational cooperation. About 4,000 foreign students study at ASU, more than 3,000 of whom are citizens of Turkmenistan. With the support of the consulate, the university has signed agreements with leading Turkmen universities, including Magtymguly Turkmen State University, S.A. Niyazov Agricultural University, the International University for the Humanities and Development, the Institute of International Relations of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Turkmenistan, as well as the joint Turkmen-Russian school named after A.S. Pushkin. The interlocutors discussed joint educational programmes with the possibility of obtaining a second degree, academic mobility of students and teachers, professional development of teaching staff, as well as scientific research and practical activities.
Universities in Turkmenistan and Azerbaijan discussed joint academic initiatives
31.01.2026On 30 January, an online meeting was held between the Institute of International Relations of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (IIR MFA) of Turkmenistan and ADA University (Azerbaijan). This was reported by the Orient news agency. The parties emphasised the importance of strengthening cooperation in science and education and discussed promising areas of interaction. Within the framework of the Memorandum of Understanding, joint academic projects were considered: exchange of experience, organization of conferences, lectures and seminars, participation of teachers and students, as well as joint publications. The participation of Turkmen diplomats and students in the educational programs of ADA University was noted. The role of the joint Turkmen-Azerbaijani commission in the development of scientific and educational cooperation was emphasised. The possibility of holding joint events for World Turkic Language Family Day, declared by UNESCO on 15 December, and further prospects for joint work in the scientific and educational sphere were also discussed.
Turkmen-German dialogue strengthens economic ties
31.01.2026On 30 January, Turkmenistan's Foreign Affairs Minister Rashid Meredov held a video conference with Michael Harms, Executive Director of the Eastern Committee of the German Economy. This was reported by the press service of the Turkmenistan Foreign Affairs Ministry. During the meeting, the parties noted the active development of trade and economic relations, which testifies to the high level of bilateral dialogue between Turkmenistan and the Federal Republic of Germany. Particular attention was paid to the significance of the participation of the National Leader of the Turkmen people, Chairman of the Halk Maslahaty of Turkmenistan Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov in the Turkmen-German Business Forum during his working visit to Germany in September 2023, which served as an impetus for further intensification of economic cooperation. The parties also emphasised the importance of the bilateral meeting between the President of Turkmenistan and German Federal Chancellor Olaf Scholz as part of the ‘Central Asia-Germany’ dialogue, as well as the negotiations with representatives of German business held in Astana in September 2024. Noting the regularity of cross-economic days, business forums and exhibitions, the participants discussed the role of the Joint Turkmen-German Working Group and the Eastern Committee of German Economy, whose activities contribute to the expansion of practical intergovernmental cooperation.
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