News
Turkmenistan took part in a transport seminar in Yerevan
17.09.2026Representatives from Turkmenistan took part in a seminar entitled ‘Promoting Sustainable Transport Corridors to Strengthen Inter-Regional and Intra-Regional Connectivity’. The two-day event took place on 14–15 September in Yerevan, according to the news website Turkmenportal. The seminar was organised by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Trade of the Republic of Armenia and the United Nations Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific (ESCAP). The event was attended by representatives of member states’ governments, transport operators, the private sector, academia, international organisations and development partners. Participants exchanged experiences and discussed common challenges in the development of transport corridors. They also examined practical approaches to enhancing their efficiency, sustainability and environmental friendliness.
Turkmenistan and the Republic of Korea discussed expanding business ties
17.09.2026On 15 September 2026, as part of the Turkmen-Korean Business Forum, a meeting took place between Rashid Meredov, Foreign Affairs Minister of Turkmenistan, and Lee Dal-gon, Chairman of the Committee on Shared Growth of the Republic of Korea. This was reported by the press office of the Foreign Affairs Ministry of Turkmenistan. The parties discussed the prospects for the further development of socio-economic cooperation between the two countries. Particular attention was paid to expanding business ties and establishing new contacts between business representatives from Turkmenistan and the Republic of Korea. Lee Dal-gon previously held the posts of Minister of Public Administration and Security of the Republic of Korea and State Secretary for Political Affairs to the President of the Republic of Korea. He also served as a member of the National Assembly of the Republic of Korea.
Turkmenistan and the Republic of Korea will expand their cooperation in the field of technology
17.09.2026On 15 September 2026, on the sidelines of the Turkmen-Korean Business Forum, Rashid Meredov, Foreign Affairs Minister of Turkmenistan, met with Kim Jin-pyo, Director of the Institute for Global Innovation Research of the Republic of Korea. This was reported by the press office of the Foreign Affairs Ministry of Turkmenistan. The parties discussed the prospects for developing Turkmen-Korean cooperation in the fields of innovation, modern technologies and the expansion of business ties. Particular attention was paid to further interaction between representatives of the business and expert communities of the two countries. Kim Jin-pyo served as Speaker of the National Assembly of the Republic of Korea from 2022 to 2024.
The Turkmenistan Investment Forum has gained a new Knowledge Partner
17.09.2026Oxford Business Group (OBG) will take part in the Third International Investment Forum of Turkmenistan (TIF 2026) for the first time as a Knowledge Partner. The forum will bring together representatives of government bodies, international financial organisations, investors and the global business community, according to the news agency Orient. Oxford Business Group was founded in 1994 and specialises in economic research and investment analysis of emerging markets. The company operates in more than 40 countries, combining an international research network with on-the-ground work, and provides businesses and government bodies with information to assess investment opportunities and make decisions. Its materials are used by international investors, company executives and government leaders. OBG’s participation in TIF 2026 will enable the forum’s investment agenda to be presented to a wider international audience and highlight the importance of Turkmenistan as a destination for cooperation. The forum’s Knowledge Partners also include The Turkmen-American Business Cooperation Association (TABCA). TIF 2026 will create opportunities for direct interaction between Turkmen companies and international partners, investors and business leaders. During B2B meetings, participants will be able to present projects and discuss prospects for cooperation, whilst B2G meetings will provide a platform to discuss investment initiatives with representatives of government bodies. The business programme will cover key sectors of Turkmenistan’s economy: energy, transport corridors, the digital economy, artificial intelligence, virtual assets, ‘green’ projects, agribusiness, tourism and water resources.
A madrasah in the city of Arkadag will be built in accordance with Islamic principles
16.09.2026The National Leader of the Turkmen people and Chairman of the Halk Maslahaty of Turkmenistan, Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov, has recommended that the principles recognised in the Islamic world be taken into account during the construction and fitting out ofthe madrasah in the city of Arkadag. This was reported by the news agency TDH. During a working visit, the National Leader of the Turkmen people inspected the progress of construction at the ‘Arkadagyň ruhy metjidi’ mosque, where he was shown plans for the madrasah’s classrooms and the facilities for student education. Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov instructed officials to study international experience in the construction and equipping of similar educational institutions, as well as to focus on strengthening the material and technical base and applying international standards in the organisation of the educational process. D. Orazov, Chairman of the State Committee for the Construction of the City of Arkadag under the President of Turkmenistan, reported that the complex is designed to provide facilities for study, teaching staff, student accommodation and leisure. The Chief Imam of the Mosque, Yalkap Hojagulyev, provided an update on the progress of construction and the materials being used, whilst also noting that lessons had been learnt from international experience in the construction of madrasas and the equipping of classrooms.
A triumph in Kronenberg: Turkmenistan showcases its winged horses to the world
16.09.2026Ahal-Teke horses are an integral part of the historical and cultural heritage of the Turkmen people. The breed originated in what is now Turkmenistan and is considered one of the oldest in the world. One of the key events for the modern development and international promotion of the Ahal-Teke breed was the World Equestrian Championships and the Ahal-Teke Beauty Contest, which took place from 4 to 6 September 2026. The events were attended by the National Leader of the Turkmen people, Chairman of the Halk Maslahaty of Turkmenistan, Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov. The championship was the centrepiece of a large-scale programme combining sporting, scientific and cultural events. The programme included an open session of the International Ahal-Teke Horse Association, an international scientific and practical conference, the presentation of the book ‘A Horse – A Symbol of Faithfulness and Happiness’ in Dutch, and an exhibition dedicated to Turkmen culture and horse-breeding traditions. The championship itself served as a prominent platform for showcasing Ahal-Teke racehorses. Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov’s participation lent the event a special international dimension. Hero Arkadag emphasised the championship’s significance for further enhancing the international prestige of Ahal-Teke racehorses and expanding cooperation in this field. According to the Chairman of the Halk Maslahaty of Turkmenistan, holding the events in Kronenberg was a gesture of respect towards Turkmenistan, its history and culture as the homeland of the Ahal-Teke breed. As part of his visit, Hero Arkadag also took part in the closing ceremony of the competition. On behalf of the President of Turkmenistan, Serdar Berdimuhamedov, the winner was awarded the main prize – the ‘Grand Prix’ in the ‘World Champion among Ahal-Teke Horses’ category. Thus, the championship in the Netherlands became not only a sporting competition but also an international platform for showcasing Ahal-Teke horses in the fields of equestrian sport, scientific research and cultural heritage. This combination of sporting, scientific and cultural elements was one of the distinctive features of the event. The programme of Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov’s visit extended well beyond his participation in the championship itself. An open meeting of the International Ahal-Teke Horse Association was held in Kronenberg, attended by representatives of the international horse breeding community. During the meeting, the prospects for the further development of the breed and for international cooperation were discussed. Hero Arkadag proposed holding the World Ahal-Teke Horse Championship every five years. The meeting’s participants supported this proposal. Areas for further work were also identified, including expanding the participation of Ahal-Tekes in international equestrian sport, the development of scientific research, veterinary medicine and the exchange of expertise. Particular attention was paid to creating conditions for the preservation of the breed’s genetic pool and the development of international scientific links. Among the proposals was an initiative to establish an International Ahal-Teke Horse Fund. The scientific programme continued at the international conference ‘Ahalteke bedewi: türkmeniň dünýewi seýisçilik sungaty’ (‘The Ahal-Teke Horse: Turkmen Art of Universal Horse Breeding’). The conference was attended by scientists and horse-breeding specialists from more than 20 countries. The topics of the parallel sessions included the history and development of the Ahal-Teke breed, its influence on global horse-breeding culture, issues of selection and veterinary care, the genetic foundations for preserving the breed’s purity, as well as the depiction of the racehorse in fine and decorative-applied arts. The championship thus became a unique focal point, bringing together scientific research, cultural projects, professional networking and the presentation of national traditions. A significant international milestone was the inclusion, on 5 December 2023, of the national nomination ‘Art of Ahal-Teke horse breeding and traditions of horses' decoration’ on UNESCO’s Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity. This decision relates to the body of knowledge and traditions associated with the breeding, rearing and decoration of Ahal-Teke horses. Therefore, the preservation of this heritage involves not only sustaining the breed itself, but also passing on professional skills, the traditions of seysis and the art forms associated with horse breeding. In the Netherlands, this theme was given practical expression. As part of the championship, an exhibition was held dedicated to Turkmen culture, horse breeding, crafts and traditions. Visitors were able to familiarise themselves with national equestrian equipment, jewellery, carpets, clothing and other elements of cultural heritage. A special feature was the presentation of the Dutch edition of Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov’s book ‘A Horse – A Symbol of Faithfulness and Happiness’. First published in 2019, the book is dedicated to the role of the horse in the history and life of the Turkmen people, the traditions of horse breeding and the distinctive features of the Ahal-Teke breed. Its translation has broadened the Dutch audience’s understanding of Turkmen equestrian culture. The Netherlands was not chosen as the venue for the championship by chance: Kronenberg is one of Europe’s renowned centres for equestrian sport. It was here that representatives from various countries, professional riders, academics, specialists and enthusiasts of the Ahal-Teke breed were brought together. Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov’s visit to the Netherlands formed part of a wider effort to promote Ahal-Teke horse breeding internationally. Even before the 2026 championship, Hero Arkadag had visited equestrian facilities abroad and discussed issues of international cooperation in the field of horse breeding. In particular, during a trip to the USA, the Chairman of the Halk Maslahaty of Turkmenistan visited the ‘La Victoria’ equestrian complex, whilst in Germany he held a working meeting on preparations for international equestrian events. The championship demonstrated that the further development of Ahal-Teke horse breeding is linked to the preservation of traditions, scientific research into the breed, participation in international competitions and the expansion of professional cooperation. The programme of events continued on 12 September at the ‘Ruhyýet’ Palace in the city of Arkadag, where a high-level conference entitled ‘Independent Neutral Turkmenistan − the Homeland of Purposeful Winged Horses: A Space of Peace, Friendship and Cooperation’ was held. It was attended by representatives of the Government, ministries and departments, diplomatic missions and international organisations, as well as civil society organisations and young people. International attention to the results of the championship was also reflected in a letter from Marian Weltevreden, Head of the European Ahal-Teke Horse Association, addressed to the National Leader of the Turkmen people. The letter highlighted the significance of the event held in the Netherlands for promoting the Ahal-Teke breed and expanding international cooperation. Thus, the Ahal-Teke racehorse was presented not only as a representative of an ancient breed, but also as a link between Turkmenistan’s historical heritage and modern international equestrian sport.
Turkmenistan and Korea are strengthening the legal framework for cooperation in education
16.09.2026As part of the state visit by the President of Turkmenistan, Serdar Berdimuhamedov, to the Republic of Korea, documents on cooperation in the fields of education, science and youth policy were signed on 15 September. This was reported by the press office of the Ministry of Education of Turkmenistan. In particular, the following were concluded: ‘Memorandum of Understanding between the Ministry of Education of Turkmenistan and the Ministry of Gender Equality and Family of the Republic of Korea on cooperation in the field of youth policy’; ‘Memorandum of Understanding between the Turkmen State Institute of Economics and Management (Turkmenistan) and Sungkyunkwan University (Republic of Korea)’; ‘Memorandum of Understanding between the Institute of Engineering, Technology and Transport Communications of Turkmenistan (Turkmenistan) and the Korea University of Technology and Education (KOREATECH)’; ‘Memorandum of Understanding between the Oguz Han University of Engineering and Technology of Turkmenistan and the Korea University of Technology and Education (KOREATECH)’; ‘Memorandum of Understanding between the International University for the Humanities and Development (Turkmenistan) and Incheon National University (Republic of Korea)’; ‘Memorandum of Understanding between the International University for the Humanities and Development and Kyung Hee University’; ‘Cooperation Agreement between the Scientific Centre for Strategic Studies of the Institute of International Relations of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Turkmenistan and the Seoul National University Asia Center’; ‘Cooperation Agreement between the Dovletmammet Azadi Turkmen National Institute of World Languages and Kangwon National University’. The documents provide for the expansion of cooperation between higher education institutions, the development of academic exchanges and the training of qualified personnel. They are also aimed at strengthening cooperation in the fields of youth policy, science and the introduction of innovative technologies into education. The signing of the documents forms part of the ongoing development of cooperation between Turkmenistan and the Republic of Korea in the fields of education and science.
Turkmen football club ‘Arkadag’ got off to a winning start in the AFC Champions League 2
16.09.2026‘Arkadag’ Football Club beat Bahrain’s ‘Al-Muharraq’ 1–0 in their first match of the AFC Champions League 2 group stage. The Group B fixture took place at the ‘Arkadag’ Stadium in Turkmenistan, according to IIC of Turkmenistan. The only goal came in the 52nd minute, scored by Mekan Saparov with a precise header from a corner. Towards the end of the match, ‘Arkadag’ goalkeeper Rustem Ahallyev saved several shots from the opposition and kept a clean sheet. The match, played at the 10,000-capacity stadium, was officiated by a team of referees from Sri Lanka. ‘Arkadag’ have now secured three points. In the next round on 14 October, the Turkmen club will play away against ‘Al-Jazira’.
The Head of Turkmenistan has been awarded the title of ‘Honorary Doctor of Political Science’
16.09.2026The President of Turkmenistan, Serdar Berdimuhamedov, has been awarded the title of ‘Honorary Doctor of Political Science’ by Sungkyunkwan University in the Republic of Korea. The formal ceremony took place on 15 September as part of the Head of Turkmenistan’s state visit to the Republic of Korea, according to the news agency TDH. The decision to award the honorary title was taken by Sungkyunkwan University in recognition of President Serdar Berdimuhamedov’s contributions to the development of international cooperation, the strengthening of political and diplomatic ties, and the socio-economic development of Turkmenistan. The document conferring the degree highlights the Head of State’s experience in foreign policy, law-making, local self-government and the economy, as well as his contribution to the development of the digital economy and the diversification of the national economy. The ceremony took place in the main conference hall of Sungkyunkwan University. Before the ceremony began, those present were briefed on the key achievements of the President of Turkmenistan. Yoo Ji-beom, President of Sungkyunkwan University, emphasised the significance of the honorary degree for the development of friendly relations between Turkmenistan and the Republic of Korea. Following this, President Serdar Berdimuhamedov was presented with the diploma, and a commemorative photo session took place. Speaking at the ceremony, the Head of Turkmenistan expressed his gratitude to the management and staff of Sungkyunkwan University for conferring the honorary title. Serdar Berdimuhamedov emphasised the importance of cooperation in the field of education and highlighted Sungkyunkwan University’s collaboration with the International University for the Humanities and Development and the Oguz Han University of Engineering and Technology. President Serdar Berdimuhamedov also highlighted the prospects for joint educational initiatives, including exchanges of students, lecturers and researchers, as well as the training of specialists in the fields of artificial intelligence, engineering, energy, digital technologies and industrial management. Sungkyunkwan University dates back to 1398. According to the university, the honorary degree was first awarded in 1957. To date, 101 people have been awarded this honour, including the National Leader of the Turkmen people and Chairman of the Halk Maslahaty of Turkmenistan, Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov, in 2015.
The President of Turkmenistan congratulated the President of Mexico on Independence Day
16.09.2026The President of Turkmenistan, Serdar Berdimuhamedov, has congratulated the President of the United Mexican States, Claudia Sheinbaum, and the people of the country on their national holiday — Independence Day. This was reported by AsmanNews. The Head of State wished the President of Mexico good health and happiness, and the people of the country peace, progress and prosperity.
Ashgabat and Seoul discussed the development of parliamentary cooperation
16.09.2026On 15 September, President Serdar Berdimuhamedov met with Cho Jeong-sik, Speaker of the National Assembly of the Republic of Korea, as part of his state visit to the Republic of Korea. This was reported by the news agency TDH. Cho Jeong-sik highlighted the importance of the visit of the Head of Turkmenistan for the further development of inter-parliamentary and inter-state relations. President Serdar Berdimuhamedov conveyed greetings to the Speaker of the National Assembly from the National Leader of the Turkmen people and Chairman of the Halk Maslahaty of Turkmenistan, Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov. The parties discussed the development of inter-parliamentary cooperation as one of the mechanisms for strengthening mutual trust and understanding between the two countries. Particular attention was paid to the activities of the Turkmen-Korean Inter-Parliamentary Friendship Group. The inter-parliamentary friendship groups of the Mejlis of Turkmenistan and the National Assembly of the Republic of Korea have been cooperating since 2015. The initiative of the National Leader of the Turkmen people, Chairman of the Halk Maslahaty of Turkmenistan, Hero Arkadag, to establish a new format for inter-parliamentary cooperation was also noted. The first Turkmen-Korean consultative meeting took place in September 2023, and the second in October 2024. At the conclusion of the meeting, the parties expressed their confidence in the further development of Turkmen-Korean relations across a wide range of areas.
Serdar Berdimuhamedov met with the Prime Minister of South Korea
16.09.2026On 15 September, the President of Turkmenistan, Serdar Berdimuhamedov, held a meeting with the Prime Minister of the Republic of Korea, Han Seong-sook, as part of a state visit to the Republic of Korea. This was reported by AsmanNews. During the negotiations, the parties discussed the prospects for the further development of Turkmen-Korean cooperation. It was noted that the high-level negotiations held with President Lee Jae-myung would give new impetus to inter-state cooperation. The President of Turkmenistan congratulated Han Seong-sook on her appointment as Prime Minister of the Republic of Korea and wished her every success in his work. The Head of State emphasised the priority of developing a constructive partnership and mutually beneficial cooperation between Turkmenistan and countries around the world. In this context, he noted the importance of expanding relations with the Republic of Korea. Serdar Berdimuhamedov expressed his confidence that the outcome of the state visit would contribute to the further strengthening of the bilateral partnership. The Head of State also highlighted the significance of the Republic of Korea as an economic, technological and innovation partner for Turkmenistan. President Serdar Berdimuhamedov invited the Prime Minister of the Republic of Korea to visit Turkmenistan at a time convenient to her. Ms Han Seong-sook expressed her gratitude for the invitation. At the conclusion of the meeting, the parties expressed their confidence in the further development of Turkmen-Korean cooperation and wished each other success in their work, as well as peace and prosperity for the peoples of both countries.
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