News
The Friesian horse has become a symbol of friendship between Turkmenistan and the Netherlands
07.09.2026Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov, National Leader of the Turkmen people and Chairman of the Halk Maslahaty of Turkmenistan, was presented with a Friesian horse during the World Equestrian Championships and the Ahal-Teke Horse Beauty Contest in Kronenberg (Netherlands). This was reported by the news agency TDH. The gift has become a symbol of friendship and mutual respect between Turkmenistan and the Kingdom of the Netherlands.
Turkmenistan has proposed holding the Ahal-Teke Championship every five years
07.09.2026The National Leader of the Turkmen people and Chairman of the Halk Maslahaty of Turkmenistan, Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov, addressed an open meeting of the International Association of Ahal-Teke Breeding in Kronenberg (Netherlands). During his speech, Hero Arkadag proposed considering the possibility of holding major international events and championships in Ahal-Teke horse breeding every five years, reports the TDH news agency. Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov also called for strengthening cooperation between international associations, including the coordination of educational and research work, as well as the exchange of historical materials and information. The Chairman of the Halk Maslahaty of Turkmenistan highlighted the need to expand the participation of Ahal-Teke horses in international competitions. In this regard, it was proposed to develop training programmes for young horses in line with international standards for dressage and show jumping. As part of the events in Kronenberg, beauty and dressage competitions for Ahal-Teke horses of various ages were held, along with show jumping competitions, a scientific and practical conference, and international exhibitions. The programme was further enriched by performances by the ‘Galkynyş’ national equestrian games group and representatives of Turkmen culture and the arts.
The National Leader of the Turkmen people has been awarded a prize for his contribution to horse breeding
07.09.2026The European Ahal-Teke Horse Association presented Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov, National Leader of the Turkmen people and Chairman of the Halk Maslahaty of Turkmenistan, with an honorary award ‘For a significant contribution to the development of horse breeding’ and the accompanying cup. This was reported by the news agency TDH. The award was presented during an open session of the International Association of Ahal-Teke Breeding in Kronenberg. Expressing his gratitude for the honour bestowed upon him, Hero Arkadag noted that the award is a symbol of respect and gratitude to the Turkmen people and to Turkmenistan — the ancient homeland of the Ahal-Teke racehorses. According to the Chairman of the Halk Maslahaty of Turkmenistan, the centuries-old history of the Ahal-Teke breed is inextricably linked to the history of the Turkmen people. Over the centuries, Ahal-Teke horses have remained faithful companions and a source of pride for the Turkmen people. Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov emphasised that preserving the historical heritage of the Ahal-Teke horse and ensuring its further development is a shared task. The National Leader of the Turkmen people noted that the necessary conditions for this have now been created. Hero Arkadag also emphasised the importance of developing Ahal-Teke horse breeding not only through Turkmenistan’s own efforts, but also by strengthening cooperation with foreign partners. Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov identified the development of a strategy and the definition of key areas for the sector’s development over the coming decade as one of the main tasks. According to the National Leader of the Turkmen people, hosting the world competition at the ‘Peelbergen’ professional cluster demonstrates the further objectives in developing international cooperation in the field of Ahal-Teke horse breeding.
A new poem by Serdar Berdimuhamedov has been published
07.09.2026The TDH State News Agency has published a new poem by the President of Turkmenistan, Serdar Berdimuhamedov, entitled ‘Türkmeniň buýsanjy’ (‘The Pride of the Turkmen’). The poem explores themes of the Turkmen people’s historical heritage, national traditions and the country’s achievements. Particular attention is paid to the symbols of Turkmen culture — the Ahal-Teke horse, the Alabay dog and carpet weaving. The poem also speaks of love for the Motherland, the continuity between generations, creativity and the aspiration for Turkmenistan’s prosperity. The full text of the poem can be found via the link on the TDH website.
Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov attended the World Equestrian Championships
07.09.2026The National Leader of the Turkmen people and Chairman of the Halk Maslahaty of Turkmenistan, Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov, paid a visit to the Kingdom of the Netherlands, where he took part in events at the World Equestrian Games and the Ahal-Teke horse beauty contest. This was reported by the news agency TDH. An open meeting of the International Association of Ahal-Teke Breeding took place in the town of Kronenberg. It was attended by representatives of relevant associations, horse breeders, scientists and specialists from Turkmenistan, European countries, Central Asia and the Americas. Speaking at the meeting, Hero Arkadag highlighted the importance of international cooperation in the development of Ahal-Teke horse breeding. He emphasised the need to expand the participation of Ahal-Teke racehorses in global equestrian sport, to advance scientific research, veterinary science and genetics, and to facilitate the exchange of expertise amongst specialists. The National Leader of the Turkmen people proposed holding the World Equestrian Championships every five years. The participants at the meeting supported the initiative. During the event, Hero Arkadag was presented with an honorary award from the European Ahal-Teke Horse Association ‘For a significant contribution to the development of horse breeding’ and the corresponding trophy. A beauty contest for Ahal-Teke horses was also held in Kronenberg. The overall champion was the black horse Yyndam, owned by A. Martinez from France. On behalf of the President of Turkmenistan, Serdar Berdimuhamedov, Hero Arkadag presented the winner with the main ‘Grand Prix’ prize and the keys to a modern car. Winners were also announced in other categories. These included competitions for young horses, the ‘Europe’s Best Stallion’ contest, the ‘Most Beautifully Decorated Horse’ contest, as well as dressage and show jumping competitions. An international creative competition was held as part of the championship. Representatives from Turkmenistan and other countries received awards in the categories of sculpture, painting, carpet weaving, photography and jewellery. A separate part of the programme was an exhibition dedicated to Turkmen horse breeding, culture and decorative and applied arts. The Turkmenistan pavilion showcased books by the Hero Arkadag and the President of Turkmenistan, works of art, traditional carpets, jewellery, equestrian equipment, national dress and dishes from Turkmen cuisine. The ‘Galkynyş’ National Equestrian Games Group performed in a special arena. The riders demonstrated complex equestrian manoeuvres on Ahal-Teke horses. During the visit, meetings and speeches were held by representatives from the Netherlands, Greece, Spain and other countries. The participants highlighted the role of horse breeding in the development of international cultural ties and expressed an interest in further cooperation. Following the championship, Hero Arkadag thanked the Government and people of the Kingdom of the Netherlands for organising the event and for their hospitality. The Chairman of the Halk Maslahaty of Turkmenistan emphasised Turkmenistan’s readiness to continue international cooperation in the field of Ahal-Teke horse breeding. Following the conclusion of the visit, the National Leader of the Turkmen people returned to Turkmenistan. He was met at the capital’s international airport by officials and members of the country’s Government.
Turkmenistan and ‘Çalık Holding’ discussed ways to develop their cooperation
07.09.2026During his visit to the Kingdom of the Netherlands, the National Leader of the Turkmen people and Chairman of the Halk Maslahaty of Turkmenistan, Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov, met with Ahmet Chalik, Chairman of the Board of Directors of the ‘Çalık Holding’ Group. This was reported by the news agency TDH. Ahmet Chalik expressed his gratitude for the meeting and the invitation to the World Ahal-Teke Equestrian Championships. He noted that he considered the meeting with Hero Arkadag in the Netherlands a great honour. The Turkish businessman also spoke of his impressions of the events dedicated to Ahal-Teke horses and held as part of the World Championships. Hero Arkadag emphasised that the inaugural Ahal-Teke World Equestrian Championships would contribute to further rapprochement between countries and peoples. During the meeting, the parties discussed the development of relations between Turkmenistan and the Republic of Turkey, as well as cooperation with leading companies. Hero Arkadag noted that Turkmenistan’s foreign economic strategy is based on the principles of equality, mutual benefit and mutual understanding. Ahmet Chalik assured that ‘Çalık Holding’ would continue to fulfil its contractual obligations responsibly. At the conclusion of the meeting, the parties exchanged best wishes.
The prospects for developing cooperation between Turkmenistan and Germany were discussed
07.09.2026The National Leader of the Turkmen people and Chairman of the Halk Maslahaty of Turkmenistan, Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov, met with Michael Harms, Executive Director of the German Committee on Eastern European Economic Relations. This was reported by the news agency TDH. Michael Harms noted Germany’s interest in developing mutually beneficial cooperation with Turkmenistan and conveyed greetings and best wishes to Hero Arkadag from the Federal President of Germany, Frank-Walter Steinmeier, and the Federal Chancellor, Friedrich Merz. The parties discussed the development of Turkmen-German cooperation. Hero Arkadag emphasised that trade and economic cooperation is one of the key areas of the bilateral partnership. Particular attention is being paid to ties in the fields of medicine and agriculture. During negotiations, it was highlighted that a number of German companies have been operating in the Turkmen market for many years. In the medical sector, cooperation with German specialists is underway. Medical facilities scheduled to open this year are being equipped with modern technology and equipment from Germany. Ties are also being developed regarding the application of artificial intelligence in medicine. Hero Arkadag invited Michael Harms to take part in the celebrations marking the 35th anniversary of Turkmenistan’s independence and Healthcare and Medical Industry Workers’ Day. The Executive Director of the German Committee on Eastern European Economic Relations confirmed Germany’s interest in further developing cooperation. He highlighted the importance of the medical cluster currently under construction in the city of Arkadag and expressed the German side’s readiness to develop partnerships and exchange expertise. At the conclusion of the meeting, the parties expressed their confidence in the further strengthening of bilateral ties and exchanged best wishes.
Turkmenistan showcased its international achievements in Ahal-Teke horse breeding
07.09.2026The National Leader of the Turkmen people and Chairman of the Halk Maslahaty of Turkmenistan, Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov, addressed an open meeting of the International Ahal-Teke Breeding Association, held in Kronenberg, the Kingdom of the Netherlands. This was reported by the news agency TDH. At the start of his address, Hero Arkadag conveyed his greetings and best wishes to His Majesty King Willem-Alexander of the Netherlands, members of his family and the people of the country. He also expressed his gratitude to Prime Minister Rob Jetten for his support in developing relations of friendship and cooperation with Turkmenistan. Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov highlighted the international significance of the events dedicated to Ahal-Teke horses. Kronenberg brought together horse breeders, researchers, specialists and representatives of associations from dozens of countries across Asia, Europe, North and South America. In his speech, he emphasised that the Ahal-Teke horse is an integral part of the history and culture of the Turkmen people. Since gaining independence, Turkmenistan has continued its work to preserve and develop purebred Ahal-Teke breeds, drawing on centuries-old traditions of horse breeding. The National Leader of the Turkmen people emphasised that modern equestrian sports complexes have been established in the country, scientifically based breeding programmes are being developed, DNA testing has been introduced to monitor bloodlines, and an electronic database has been created. The International Ahal-Teke Breeding Association, headquartered in Ashgabat, brings together horse breeders from dozens of countries. Particular mention was made of the inclusion of the art of Ahal-Teke horse breeding and the traditions of horse decoration in UNESCO’s Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity. In 2012, a decision was taken to hold an annual International Ahal-Teke Horse Beauty Contest, timed to coincide with Turkmen Horse Day. The Chair of the Halk Maslahaty of Turkmenistan emphasised the importance of further expanding international cooperation in the field of Ahal-Teke horse breeding. Turkmenistan is ready to participate in international equestrian events, scientific research and other initiatives aimed at developing this sector. The speech also highlighted the international achievements of Turkmen equestrians in 2026. The ‘Galkynyş’ national equestrian troupe received international certificates from the World Circus Federation and the European Circus Association. The troupe performed in Azerbaijan, Turkey and other countries. Turkmen riders took part in competitions in Tashkent and Kazan, where they secured prize places and awards. The Turkmen delegation also participated in equestrian events at Windsor Castle in the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland. Hero Arkadag noted that hosting the World Equestrian Championships and the Ahal-Teke Horse Beauty Contest in Kronenberg helps to strengthen international ties and promote the Ahal-Teke breed. In conclusion, Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov congratulated the participants on the start of the events and expressed his gratitude for the broad international participation in the open meeting of the International Ahal-Teke Breeding Association.
Serdar Berdimuhamedov sent a message of congratulations to the King of Eswatini
07.09.2026The President of Turkmenistan, Serdar Berdimuhamedov, has congratulated King Mswati III of Eswatini on the Kingdom’s national holiday — Independence Day. This was reported by the TDH news agency. The Turkmen Head of State wished the King good health and happiness, and the people of Eswatini peace, well-being and prosperity.
The President of Turkmenistan congratulated Brazil on its Independence Day
07.09.2026The President of Turkmenistan, Serdar Berdimuhamedov, has congratulated the President of the Federative Republic of Brazil, Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva, and the people of Brazil on their national holiday — Independence Day of the Federative Republic of Brazil. This was reported by the news agency TDH. The Turkmen Head of State wished Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva good health and well-being, and the people of Brazil peace, progress and prosperity.
Turkmen horse breeding was showcased at an international conference in the Netherlands
07.09.2026An international scientific and practical conference entitled ‘Ahalteke bedewi: türkmeniň dünýewi seýisçilik sungaty’ (‘The Ahal-Teke Horse: Turkmen Art of Universal Horse Breeding’) was held in the Kingdom of the Netherlands as part of the World Equestrian Games and the Ahal-Teke Horse Beauty Contest. Representatives from Turkmenistan, as well as academics and horse breeding specialists from more than 20 countries, took part in the event, according to the news agency TDH. One of the central themes of the forum was the historical and cultural significance of the Ahal-Teke breed. Participants highlighted the centuries-old connection between these horses and the history and traditions of the Turkmen people. Particular attention was paid to 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. The conference also featured a presentation on the activities of the UNESCO Club ‘Ahal-Teke Horses – Envoys of Peace’, established under the Aba Annayev International Academy of Horse Breeding in the city of Arkadag. The organisation is dedicated to promoting the Ahal-Teke breed and its breeding traditions. International experts shared their experience in the areas of training, registration and maintaining the purity of the breed. Jean-Philippe Camboulives, a representative of the International Equestrian Federation, highlighted the development of cooperation with the Aba Annayev International Academy of Horse Breeding, including the training of young specialists and the exchange of professional expertise. Julio Bendezu-Sarmiento, a senior research fellow at the French National Centre for Scientific Research and the National Museum of Natural History and History, presented historical and scientific data on Ahal-Teke racehorses. Patricia Johnson, Director of the US Ahal-Teke Horse Foundation, spoke about the work being done to register horses of this breed in the USA. Following the plenary session, the conference continued with breakout sessions dedicated to the history and development of the Ahal-Teke breed, its significance within UNESCO’s cultural heritage, the portrayal of these horses in art, breeding and veterinary work, as well as the genetic foundations for maintaining the breed’s purity. Particular attention was paid to the development of the horse-breeding infrastructure in the city of Arkadag, where the Aba Annayev International Academy of Horse Breeding and the Scientific and Production Centre for Horse Breeding have been established. The significance of Turkmenistan’s Law ‘On Horse Breeding and Equestrian Sport’, adopted in 2015, was also highlighted. Forum participants emphasised the importance of international cooperation in the study of the Ahal-Teke breed, the preservation of horse-breeding traditions, the development of equestrian sports, and the exchange of scientific and practical experience.
TIF 2026 will showcase investment opportunities in Turkmenistan
07.09.2026The Turkmenistan Investment Forum (TIF) will take place in Ashgabat from 1 to 2 October 2026. The event is being organised by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Turkmenistan, according to the press office of the Chamber of Commerce and Industry of Turkmenistan. According to the source, the forum will serve as a platform for interaction between foreign investors, international financial organisations and companies interested in entering the Turkmenistan market. During the event, it is planned to present the country’s investment opportunities and discuss ways to further attract foreign direct investment. Particular attention will be paid to the prospects for implementing joint investment projects, including regional initiatives. In addition, forum participants will consider issues relating to the development of Turkmenistan’s export potential and the expansion of business ties between domestic and foreign entrepreneurs and investors. One of the TIF’s key focuses will be the development of cooperation in the field of digitalisation. The forum aims to facilitate the introduction of modern digital solutions and the transition to a digital economy. The event will take place in Ashgabat and will bring together representatives from the business sector, the financial sector and the investment community.
Read also
Advertising
Read us in Zen
