The Turkmenistan national football team has begun training ahead of their second qualifying round match against Thailand in the 2027 Asian Cup, which will take place on 10 June at the Ashgabat Stadium. This was reported by the news agency ‘Turkmenistan: Golden age’. Thirty players have been called up for the squad, 23 of whom will make the final line-up. The extended list includes foreign-based players, such as Teymur Charyev from Belarusian club ‘Torpedo-BelAZ’ and Mikhail Titov from Kyrgyz club ‘Uzgen’. Training is taking place twice a day at the Nisa Stadium under the guidance of new head coach Rovshen Meredov. The training programme will end on 9 June and includes tactical and physical training. Both teams, Turkmenistan and Thailand, are at the top of Group D. In the first round, the Turkmenistan national team beat Chinese Taipei (2-1), while Thailand defeated Sri Lanka (1-0). The winners of the six groups will advance to the final stage of the tournament, which will be hosted by Saudi Arabia for the first time. Eighteen teams, including the host Saudi Arabia, have already secured their places in the final. The Asian Cup is held every four years. The current champion is Qatar, which won in 2019 and 2023.
President of Turkmenistan Serdar Berdimuhamedov sent a congratulatory message to participants of the International Dance and Folklore Festival ‘Avaza – the land of friendship’ held in the Avaza National Tourist Zone. This was reported by the state news agency TDH. The Head of State expressed confidence that the event will strengthen cultural ties between the countries and become a platform for the exchange of experience in the field of art. The President of Turkmenistan noted that in the year of the 30th anniversary of Turkmenistan's permanent neutrality, international cultural events are actively taking place in the country, contributing to the strengthening of peace, trust and mutual understanding between peoples. Serdar Berdimuhamedov stressed the importance of the country's neutral status, which contributes to the development of foreign relations and international cooperation. The Head of State also noted the significance of Turkmenistan's cultural heritage, highlighting the uniqueness of dance and folk art, which reflect the traditions and values of the people. In conclusion, the President of Turkmenistan expressed confidence that the festival would contribute to strengthening humanitarian ties and promoting spiritual values, wishing the participants good health and success.
On 3 June, a massive bicycle ride was held in Ashgabat to mark World Bicycle Day. The event was attended by President of Turkmenistan Serdar Berdimuhamedov. The ride started at the Health Path and followed a route along Archabil and Bitarap Turkmenistan avenues. This was reported by the state news agency TDH. Representatives of the government, public organisations, educational institutions, athletes, students and representatives of the diplomatic corps took part in the event. The bike ride was accompanied by a cultural programme. World Bicycle Day was established on the initiative of Turkmenistan and recognised by the UN. In Turkmenistan, cycling is considered part of the state policy to promote a healthy lifestyle and protect the environment. During the event, the Head of State gave a number of instructions on the environmental and infrastructural development of the capital. The festive bike ride has become a symbol of the country's commitment to improving public health, environmental awareness and international sports cooperation.
On 3 June this year, the State Academy of Arts of Turkmenistan hosted the grand opening of an exhibition dedicated to Chinese horse breeding culture and the art of white porcelain, known as ‘Dehua’. The event was organised with the support of the Ministry of Culture of Turkmenistan and Chinese partners. This was reported by the online publication ‘Turkmenistan: Golden age’. At the opening ceremony, commemorative gifts were exchanged. The Chinese delegation presented the Ministry of Culture of Turkmenistan and the State Association ‘Turkmen Atlary’ with a collection of Magtymguly's poetry in Chinese, published to mark the 300th anniversary of the classic of Turkmen literature, as well as exquisite white porcelain items. The exhibition includes more than 150 ancient Chinese handmade saddles, works of art on equestrian themes (photographs, calligraphy, paintings, 40 modern porcelain items ‘Dehua’ with traditional ornaments). The opening of the exhibition highlights the historical ties between Chinese and Turkmen horse breeding cultures, the common aesthetic traditions of the two peoples, and the importance of cultural exchange.
On 3 June, Turkmenistan's Minister of Foreign Affairs Rashid Meredov held a meeting with Hu Heping, Deputy Head of the Publicity Department of the Central Committee of the Communist Party of China. This was reported by the Foreign Affairs Ministry of Turkmenistan. During the talks, the interlocutors noted the dynamic development of bilateral relations, which are characterised by comprehensive strategic partnership. Particular attention was paid to the importance of regular high-level contacts, which serve as a powerful impetus for intensifying cooperation in all areas. The prospects for strengthening inter-parliamentary and inter-party ties, as well as the development of interregional cooperation in the ‘Central Asia-China’ format, were discussed. The sides confirmed the effectiveness of their cooperation in the international arena, especially within the framework of the UN. Significant attention was paid to trade and economic cooperation. Issues related to expanding cooperation in the cultural and humanitarian sphere, including education, science, culture, mass media and youth exchanges, were also discussed. The meeting took place in an atmosphere of mutual understanding and friendship, confirming the mutual interest of the parties in further strengthening their strategic partnership.
On 3 June 2025, Turkmenistan's Minister of Foreign Affairs Rashid Meredov met with the Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the State of Palestine, Hossein Ali Mostafa Gannam, whose diplomatic mission in the country has come to an end. This was reported by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Turkmenistan. During the meeting, the diplomats discussed current issues of bilateral relations in various fields, including political, trade, economic, cultural and humanitarian cooperation. Particular attention was paid to interaction in multilateral forums, including international organisations. The Minister of Foreign Affairs of Turkmenistan noted the significant contribution of the Palestinian Ambassador to strengthening relations between the two countries and wished the diplomat success in his future endeavours. In his response, the Palestinian Ambassador thanked the Turkmen side for its comprehensive support and assistance in the implementation of his diplomatic mission.
At the Prince's Palace in Monaco, the Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of Turkmenistan, Maksat Charyev, presented his credentials to Prince Albert II. During the audience, the Ambassador conveyed warm greetings from the National Leader of the Turkmen people, Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov, and the President of Turkmenistan, Serdar Berdimuhamedov. This was reported by the IIC. The Ambassador emphasised Turkmenistan's commitment to developing bilateral relations, noting the importance of the historic visit of the National Leader of the Turkmen people to Monaco in January 2025. Special attention was paid to the successful performance of the State Equestrian Group ‘Galkynysh’ at the International Circus Festival in Monte Carlo, where the troupe won the Golden Prize. The Ambassador presented Prince Albert II with official invitations to the International Forum on the occasion of the 30th anniversary of Turkmenistan's neutrality and the Third UN Conference on the Development of Landlocked Developing Countries, which will be held in Turkmenistan at the end of 2025. Prince Albert II expressed his gratitude for the greetings and confirmed his readiness to further strengthen friendly relations between Monaco and Turkmenistan. He conveyed warm wishes to the leadership of Turkmenistan and expressed confidence in the expansion of cooperation.
On 3 June, a festive bicycle ride organised by the Embassy of Turkmenistan took place in Georgia. The event combined three significant occasions: World Bicycle Day (an initiative of Turkmenistan at the UN), the International Year of Peace and Trust, and the 30th anniversary of Turkmenistan's permanent neutrality. This was reported by the IIC. A column of cyclists, including representatives of the Georgian National Cycling Federation, professional athletes and coaches, rode through the picturesque streets of Tbilisi and the historic centre of ancient Mtskheta. The Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of Turkmenistan to Georgia, Dovletmyrat Seyitmamamedov, emphasised the special significance of this holiday in his speech. He recalled that World Bicycle Day, established on the initiative of Turkmenistan, has become an important tool for international cooperation through sport. The diplomat also spoke about Turkmenistan's large-scale programmes for the development of cycling. The event concluded with the presentation of commemorative gifts to the participants of the campaign, which once again demonstrated Turkmenistan's commitment to the principles of a healthy lifestyle and international cooperation.
On 29 May, an assessment of the social protection system using the CODI Core Diagnostic Instrument was launched in Ashgabat. This was reported by the IIC of Turkmenistan. According to the source, the initiative is being implemented in partnership with UNICEF, the International Labour Organization and the World Bank and aims to improve the effectiveness and inclusiveness of social support, especially for vulnerable groups. The event was attended by representatives of relevant ministries of Turkmenistan, international organisations, as well as experts from Armenia, Uzbekistan and Tajikistan, who joined online. ‘The launch of the CODI tool marks the beginning of an important journey towards strengthening the social protection system in Turkmenistan, based on evidence, inclusion and shared responsibility,’ emphasised Alexander Nartea, Deputy Representative of UNICEF in Turkmenistan. During the event, participants discussed the objectives and structure of the assessment, the action plan, and successful international experience in using the tool.
During the state visit of President of Turkmenistan Serdar Berdimuhamedov to Mongolia, 14 agreements were signed aimed at strengthening bilateral ties in trade, economy, education and healthcare. Prior to the signing ceremony, the Heads of State signed a joint statement, according to the state news agency TDH. According to the source, the ceremony was attended by President Serdar Berdimuhamedov and President of Mongolia Ukhnaagiin Khurelsukh. The documents signed included: Agreement between the Government of Turkmenistan and the Government of Mongolia on the establishment of a Commission on Bilateral Cooperation; Programme of cooperation between the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Turkmenistan and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Mongolia for 2026–2027; Framework Agreement between the Government of Turkmenistan and the Government of Mongolia on economic cooperation; Medium-Term Programme for the Development of Cooperation between the Government of Turkmenistan and the Government of Mongolia in the Field of Trade, Economy and Investment for 2026–2028; Memorandum of Understanding between the Ministry of Textile Industry of Turkmenistan and the Ministry of Food, Agriculture and Light Industry of Mongolia on cooperation in the field of light industry; Agreement between the Ministry of Education of Turkmenistan and the Ministry of Education of Mongolia on cooperation in the field of education; Memorandum of Cooperation between the Myrat Garryev State Medical University of Turkmenistan and the Mongolian National University of Medical Sciences in the field of education and healthcare; Memorandum of Understanding between the Institute of International Relations of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Turkmenistan and the School of Political Science, International Relations and Public Administration at the National University of Mongolia; Memorandum between the Khakimlik of Ashgabat and the Mayor's Office of Ulaanbaatar on the establishment of sister city relations between Ashgabat and Ulaanbaatar; Memorandum of Understanding between the State Museum of the State Cultural Centre of Turkmenistan and the National Museum of Mongolia; Memorandum of Understanding between the Academy of Sciences of Turkmenistan and the Mongolian Academy of Sciences; Memorandum of Understanding between the State Committee of Turkmenistan for Television, Radio Broadcasting and Cinematography and the National Television of Mongolia on cooperation in the field of television and radio channels; Memorandum of Understanding between the State Information Agency of Turkmenistan (TDH) and the Mongolian National Information Agency ‘MONTSAME’.
A Turkmen-Mongolian business forum dedicated to strengthening trade and economic partnership between the two countries was held within the framework of Turkmen President Serdar Berdimuhamedov's state visit to Mongolia. This was reported by the state news agency TDH. According to the source, the forum was held in the conference hall of the National Chamber of Commerce and Industry of Mongolia and brought together representatives of government authorities, business circles and business structures of Turkmenistan and Mongolia. Before the meeting, the participants familiarised themselves with the exhibition of arts and crafts and the exposition of Turkmen carpets. The speakers noted that the traditionally warm relations between the countries have reached a new level. This is evidenced by the intensification of political dialogue and signing of bilateral agreements within the framework of mutual visits of the Heads of State. During the event, video presentations demonstrating the economic and investment potential of both countries were presented. Mongolian partners emphasised the importance of Turkmenistan as a rapidly developing economy of Central Asia with significant natural resources. Special attention was paid to the industrial and innovative development of Turkmenistan, including the introduction of modern technologies in industrial production. Representatives of various companies operating in key sectors of the economy spoke at the forum. The Mongolian business community expressed interest in establishing direct business contacts with Turkmen partners. The event also included bilateral talks between representatives of government agencies and the private sector, during which the prospects for expanding cooperation and implementing joint investment projects were discussed. A number of bilateral documents were signed at the end of the forum. The forum participants expressed confidence that the meeting would become a new impetus in the development of economic relations between Turkmenistan and Mongolia and emphasised the importance of holding similar events in the future.
As part of the development of industrial and investment cooperation between Turkmenistan and Belgium, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of Turkmenistan to Belgium Sapar Palvanov visited the headquarters of the Vandewiele Company - one of the world's leading manufacturers of equipment for carpet weaving industry. This is reported by the IIC of Turkmenistan. During the visit, a meeting with Vice President of Vandewiele Group Thomas Baudouin and Sales Manager Timur Tefikov was held. The representatives of the company familiarised the Turkmen side with the main activities, innovative technologies and stages of the production cycle. S. Palvanov visited the production workshops where high-tech equipment for the carpet industry is manufactured. During the talks, special emphasis was placed on the company's co-operation with the Turkmen private enterprise ‘Abadan Haly’, which successfully uses Vandewiele equipment. The company's management expressed interest in further expansion of co-operation with Turkmenistan, including the establishment of partnerships with state-owned enterprises in the textile and carpet sectors