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Turkmenistan is preparing to mark the 35th anniversary of its independence
16.03.2026Since gaining independence, Turkmenistan has achieved significant results across various areas of development. Since 1991, the country has been establishing the political, economic and legal framework of a sovereign state. This is reported by the online news site AsmanNews. The implementation of state programmes is aimed at strengthening the economy, boosting production and raising the standard of living of the population. Independence has also influenced public consciousness and the country’s cultural and spiritual life. During this period, the foundations of modern state governance have been laid, and Turkmenistan’s achievements are gaining recognition on the international stage. The state’s foreign policy is based on the principles of permanent neutrality, peace and mutually beneficial cooperation. As a result, diplomatic ties are expanding and cooperation with international organisations, including the United Nations, is developing. Construction of residential buildings, industrial enterprises and socio-cultural facilities continues in the country. These projects are aimed at developing infrastructure and improving living conditions for the population. It is noted that, over a relatively short period of history, Turkmenistan has demonstrated steady rates of development. The book by Hero Arkadag, ‘Independence – Our Happiness’, emphasises the importance of independence and neutrality for the country’s development and international cooperation. Independence Day remains one of the main public holidays. In 2026 — the year of ‘Independent Neutral Turkmenistan − the Homeland of Purposeful Winged Horses’ — the country is preparing to celebrate the 35th anniversary of its independence.
The ‘Galkynysh’ equestrian troupe put on a circus show in the capital of Azerbaijan
16.03.2026In Baku, at the modern ‘Circus Sea Breeze’ complex, the ‘Galkynysh’ National Equestrian Games Group put on a spectacular performance alongside artists from the State Circus of Turkmenistan and the State Equestrian Circus named after Gorogly in the city of Arkadag. This was reported by the press service of the Foreign Affairs Ministry of Turkmenistan. The Turkmen artists performed traditional horseback acrobatics and stunts on Ahal-Teke horses, delighting the audience with their grace and the harmony of their interaction with the horses. ‘Galkynysh’, winner of the Grand Prix at the Monte Carlo International Circus Festival, confirmed the high professional standard of Turkmen circus artists. The programme also included other circus genres, making the show rich and varied. The performance was met with prolonged applause. ‘Galkynysh’s tour of Azerbaijan will continue until 30 March, and such cultural exchanges help to strengthen friendship and cooperation between Turkmenistan and Azerbaijan.
The Ambassador of Turkmenistan to the UAE met with the President of Khalifa University
16.03.2026Bayram Bayramov, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of Turkmenistan to the United Arab Emirates, held a meeting with Professor Ebrahim Al Hajri, President of Khalifa University. This was reported by the press service of the Turkmen diplomatic mission. The negotiations took place at the university’s main campus in Abu Dhabi and focused on the prospects for establishing strategic institutional cooperation between Khalifa University and leading higher education institutions in Turkmenistan in the fields of science, technology and innovation. During the meeting, the parties discussed opportunities for developing academic mobility, implementing joint master’s and doctoral programmes, and launching joint research projects. The Ambassador of Turkmenistan also informed his counterpart about planned international events in Ashgabat. In the context of these initiatives, the meeting participants agreed to begin expert online consultations with the aim of further institutionalising cooperation. At the end of the meeting, the Diplomat visited a number of the university’s research facilities, including state-of-the-art laboratories for robotics and medical research.
Turkmenistan and Afghanistan discussed the progress of the TAPI project
16.03.2026On 15 March, the Minister of Agriculture, Irrigation and Livestock of Afghanistan, Mawlawi Attaullah Omari, held negotiations in Kabul with the Executive Director of the ‘TAPI Pipeline Company Ltd.’ consortium Muhammetmyrat Amanov and the Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of Turkmenistan to Afghanistan, Hoja Ovezov. This was reported by the news agency Orient. The main topic of discussion was the procedure for the expropriation and lease of land plots along the future pipeline route. The Afghan side is developing a tariff system for the purchase or lease of private and state-owned land. The Head of the consortium called for the land registration process to be expedited so as not to disrupt the construction schedule. Meanwhile, a technical delegation from the land authority is working in Herat province, where route marking is underway. The minister confirmed that TAPI remains a strategic project for the country’s economy. His department will be responsible for land valuation, monitoring property rights and ensuring the legality of compensation.
A new Ambassador of the Republic of Korea to Turkmenistan has been appointed
16.03.2026The Foreign Affairs Ministry of the Republic of Korea has announced the appointment of Lee Won-jae as the new Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary to Turkmenistan. The Diplomat, who has 30 years of experience, will contribute to the development of bilateral relations, including the implementation of joint industrial and infrastructure projects between Seoul and Ashgabat, according to the Orient news agency. Lee Won-jae previously headed the diplomatic mission in Kyrgyzstan, which provided him with practical experience of working in Central Asia. At the South Korean Foreign Affairs Ministry, he also headed the economic cooperation department, which is significant given the expansion of South Korean companies’ activities in Turkmenistan’s energy and chemical sectors. His professional background also includes security matters: the Diplomat worked as a coordinator at the South Korean Ministry of Defence and served in diplomatic missions in Iran and Russia. Prior to his appointment in Ashgabat, he taught at the National Diplomatic Academy of Korea.
Turkmenistan shared its experience in regulating migration processes
16.03.2026A two-day international seminar on labour migration was held in Brussels as part of the Prague Process. The event was attended by representatives of relevant government agencies, international organisations and European Union bodies, including the European Commission and the International Centre for Migration Policy Development (ICMPD). This was reported by the press service of the Turkmenistan diplomatic mission in Brussels. Representatives of the State Migration Service of Turkmenistan took part in the seminar. During thematic sessions and round-table discussions, Turkmen specialists presented their country’s experience in regulating migration processes, paying particular attention to the introduction of innovative approaches and the development of digital solutions in the field of migration management. Participants were also provided with information on the modernisation of Turkmenistan’s migration infrastructure, including the expansion of e-services, the strengthening of inter-agency cooperation and the improvement of data-sharing mechanisms between government agencies. It was noted that these measures are aimed at increasing the transparency of procedures, the quality of public services and the efficiency of migration management. During the discussions, experts and representatives of the participating countries gave a positive assessment of the level of institutional development of Turkmenistan’s migration system. It was emphasised that the national system demonstrates a high level of internal coordination, and that effective information exchange between relevant departments facilitates a timely response to contemporary migration challenges. The seminar also served as a platform for professional dialogue on the development of legal channels for labour mobility, the expansion of international cooperation and the improvement of mechanisms for the recognition of qualifications. Participants discussed promising areas for further cooperation and exchanged best practices in the field of migration management.
Turkmenistan has reaffirmed its commitment to the international fight against drug trafficking
16.03.2026On 9 March 2026, a delegation from Turkmenistan, led by the country’s Deputy Minister of the Internal Affairs, took part in the 69th session of the Commission on Narcotic Drugs (CND), which was held at the United Nations Office in Vienna. This was reported by the press service of the diplomatic mission. The event was attended by representatives of member states, international organisations and the expert community. Participants discussed issues relating to combating illicit drug trafficking, strengthening international cooperation and developing effective strategies to combat drug-related crime and drug abuse. During the meeting, the Deputy Minister of Internal Affairs of Turkmenistan reaffirmed the country’s commitment to international cooperation in the fight against illicit drug trafficking and organised crime. He highlighted the measures being taken to strengthen border security, enhance the capacity of law enforcement agencies, and implement national programmes on drug prevention and public safety. It was also emphasised that Turkmenistan is actively participating in regional and international initiatives aimed at countering illicit drug trafficking and developing multilateral cooperation. On the sidelines of the session, a meeting was held with Oliver Stolpe, the regional representative of the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime for Afghanistan, Central Asia, Iran and Pakistan. The parties discussed current issues of cooperation and prospects for further strengthening joint efforts in the fight against illicit drug trafficking, as well as ways to enhance regional coordination. In addition, the Turkmenistan delegation took part in parallel events, where it presented national experience and exchanged best practices with international partners, as well as familiarised itself with new approaches to the development of global anti-drug policy.
Turkmenistan and Russia discussed the development of their strategic partnership
16.03.2026On 13 March, a meeting took place in Moscow between Esen Aydogdyev, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of Turkmenistan to the Russian Federation, who is concluding his diplomatic mission, and Mikhail Galuzin, Deputy Foreign Affairs Minister of Russia. This was reported by the press service of the diplomatic mission. During the meeting, the parties exchanged views on key aspects of the deepened strategic partnership between Turkmenistan and the Russian Federation. At the conclusion of the meeting, the Ambassador expressed his gratitude to the leadership of the Russian Ministry of Foreign Affairs for the support provided during his diplomatic mission in Moscow. In turn, Mikhail Galuzin thanked Esen Aydogdyev for his contribution to the development of Turkmen-Russian relations and wished him success in his new post.
Universities in Turkmenistan and the UK are expanding their academic cooperation
16.03.2026As part of a working visit, a delegation from the International University for the Humanities and Development held a meeting with the leadership of the University of Westminster, where they discussed prospects for bilateral cooperation. This was reported by the press service of the Ministry of Education of Turkmenistan. The university rectors, Professors Andrew Lynn and Dibyesh Anand, took part in the negotiations. Professor Andrew Lynn presented the university’s research and educational activities and noted that he had previously visited Ashgabat on numerous occasions to participate in academic conferences and educational programmes. In particular, he highlighted cooperation with universities in the region as part of the British Council’s ‘Accelerating English Language Learning in Central Asia’ programme. The visit also included a hybrid meeting with professors and lecturers from the University of Westminster on the ‘Academic English’ course, during which the parties exchanged experiences on the application of modern English language teaching methods. In addition, an international conference marking the 35th anniversary of Turkmenistan’s independence was held in the university’s conference hall. The event was attended by the management, lecturers, research staff and students of the University of Westminster, as well as a delegation from the International University for the Humanities and Development. The university’s rector, M. Kuliyeva, gave a presentation on Turkmenistan’s foreign policy and diplomacy, based on the principles of permanent neutrality. A. Chariyev, a lecturer in the Department of International Relations, spoke about the country’s historical development, its modern achievements and international cooperation in the field of education. G. Seyilbayeva, a senior lecturer at the Department of Management, presented information on the development of foreign language teaching and the university’s educational activities. Conference participants noted the significance of Turkmenistan’s foreign policy, aimed at strengthening Peace and Trust and international cooperation, and also gave a positive assessment of the reforms being carried out in the country’s education system.
Scientists and cultural figures are studying the folk traditions of Turkmenistan
16.03.2026The Ministry of Culture of Turkmenistan has established a research and creative group to carry out ethnographic research in the country’s regions. The group comprises cultural figures, academics, journalists and students. This is reported on the ministry’s website. The research work began in the Lebap velayat. From 10 to 12 March, members of the expedition visited a number of etraps and towns in the region, where they gathered material on folk decorative and applied arts, folklore and musical traditions, as well as on the process of making national musical instruments — the dutar and the tuyduk. In addition, the group members learnt about the distinctive features of preparing national dishes, family and wedding customs, as well as the traditions of making national clothing. During the trip, the researchers also studied the national practice of breeding Alabay dogs.
Ashgabat is preparing for the ‘White City Ashgabat – 2026’ international forum
16.03.2026Preparations are underway in Ashgabat for the 25th Multidisciplinary International Exhibition and Conference ‘White City Ashgabat – 2026’ (WCA 2026), which will take place on 24–25 May. The forum is traditionally timed to coincide with Ashgabat City Day and is dedicated to issues relating to the development of the modern urban environment. This was reported by the publication ‘Turkmenistan: Golden age’. In 2026, the event will be held under the motto ‘Architecture. Innovation. Sustainable Development’. It is expected that the forum will address issues such as the modernisation of urban infrastructure, the introduction of innovative technologies, the development of environmentally sustainable urban systems, and the implementation of the “smart city” concept. The organisers note that over the years, the “White City Ashgabat” forum has become an international platform for discussing projects in the fields of construction, architecture and infrastructure development. In 2025, the event was attended by over 550 delegates from more than 30 countries, representing government bodies, international organisations and leading companies. A number of agreements were signed during last year’s forum. In particular, the Ashgabat City Administration signed a contract with the Chinese company ‘Zoomlion Environmental Industry Co. Ltd.’ for the supply of 960 units of municipal equipment. In addition, the state concern ‘Türkmenhimiýa’ and the South Korean company ‘Daewoo Engineering & Construction’ signed a contract for the construction of a mineral fertiliser production complex at the chemical plant in Turkmenabat. It is expected that the upcoming conference will focus particularly on the implementation of Ashgabat’s development strategy up to 2045, including the introduction of digital urban management systems, the modernisation of transport and municipal infrastructure, and the construction of energy-efficient buildings. Topics for discussion will also include the development of the city of Arkadag, regarded as a modern example of the implementation of innovative urban planning solutions and digital technologies for managing urban infrastructure. The organisers note that the upcoming forum will serve as a platform for presenting investment projects and technological solutions in the fields of construction, industry, energy and the production of building materials.
A delegation from a Turkmen university met with the leadership of the University of Westminster
16.03.2026During a working visit, a delegation from the International University for the Humanities and Development held a meeting with the Vice-Chancellors of the University of Westminster, Andrew Linn and Dibyesh Anand, to discuss prospects for bilateral cooperation. This was reported by the press service of the Ministry of Education of Turkmenistan. Representatives of the university spoke about their academic and international activities, their experience working in Central Asia and their participation in educational programmes. The Turkmen delegation presented the achievements of their university and noted the productivity of the meetings with the research centres of the University of Westminster. The parties discussed the possibility of implementing exchange programmes, summer and online courses, as well as developing joint educational programmes in the ‘2+2’ and ‘1+1’ formats. Following the meeting, an agreement was reached to further explore cooperation through diplomatic channels. A hybrid meeting was also held with lecturers from the University of Westminster on the ‘Academic English’ course, during which they shared their experience of applying modern language teaching methods. As part of the visit, an international conference was held to mark the 35th anniversary of Turkmenistan’s independence, attended by the leadership, lecturers and students of the University of Westminster and a delegation from the International University for the Humanities and Development. The Rector of the Turkmen university, M. Kuliyeva, presented a report on Turkmenistan’s foreign policy and diplomacy, based on the principle of permanent neutrality. University lecturers also delivered presentations on the country’s history and achievements, international cooperation in the field of education, and the development of foreign language teaching. Conference participants noted the peaceful nature of Turkmenistan’s foreign policy, its international initiatives and the reforms being implemented in the education system.
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