News
The first ‘Tourism Malaysia’ seminar took place in Ashgabat
17.07.2026The first specialised ‘Tourism Malaysia’ seminar for representatives of Turkmenistan’s tourism industry took place in Ashgabat. The event, supported by the Malaysian Embassy and the Turkmen Ministry of Foreign Affairs, was dedicated to developing cooperation and promoting the ‘Visit Malaysia 2026’ (VM2026) campaign, reports AsmanNews. The seminar was attended by representatives of government bodies, airlines, travel agencies and the media. The meeting followed on from agreements reached during the recent visit to Turkmenistan by the Prime Minister of Malaysia, Dato’ Seri Anwar bin Ibrahim. According to ‘Tourism Malaysia’, 10,751 tourists from Turkmenistan visited Malaysia in 2025 — 42.5 per cent more than the previous year. Participants were introduced to the country’s tourism opportunities and resort offerings, and the prospects for joint projects were discussed. ‘Tourism Malaysia’ intends to continue its marketing and information campaigns to promote Malaysia within the Turkmenistan tourism market.
The President of Turkmenistan has begun a state visit to Georgia
17.07.2026The President of Turkmenistan, Serdar Berdimuhamedov, has arrived in Georgia, where he will undertake a two-day state visit. This was reported by the news website Turkmenportal, citing the online newspaper ‘Turkmenistan’. At Tbilisi’s Shota Rustaveli Airport, the national flags of both countries were raised in honour of the Turkmen leader’s arrival, and a welcoming ceremony involving an honour guard was organised. The President of Turkmenistan was welcomed by representatives of the Georgian leadership and members of the official Turkmen delegation. As part of the visit, negotiations are scheduled between Serdar Berdimuhamedov and the Georgian leadership in both bilateral and expanded formats. In addition, the parties will hold a Turkmen-Georgian business forum and host an exhibition of products from Turkmen manufacturers. Diplomatic relations between Turkmenistan and Georgia were established on 16 July 1992. As the publication notes, the agreements reached at the highest level in recent years have helped to strengthen cooperation and have taken bilateral relations to a new stage of development. The current state visit by the President of Turkmenistan to Georgia is seen as a continuation of the political dialogue between the countries and an important step in the further development of bilateral relations.
The Pakistani Ambassador spoke about her experiences of working in Turkmenistan
17.07.2026Dr Faryal Leghari, Ambassador of the Islamic Republic of Pakistan to Turkmenistan, spoke in an interview with Diplo TV about her diplomatic career, her work in Ashgabat and her impressions of Turkmenistan, according to the online news site AsmanNews. Faryal Leghari took up her post on 13 June 2025. Shortly after arriving in Ashgabat, she helped organise the evacuation of Pakistani nationals from Iran following the outbreak of military conflict. Before entering the diplomatic service, the Ambassador graduated from the University of Oxford, where she obtained a PhD in political geography. She has also worked for leading media organisations in the region, held senior editorial positions and conducted research in the fields of security and international relations. According to the diplomat, her actual impressions of Turkmenistan proved to be better than her previous expectations of the country. The Ambassador highlighted Turkmenistan’s stability, its policy of permanent neutrality and its hospitality. Faryal Leghari also emphasised women’s active participation in public and political life, access to education and the focus on the development of culture, the arts and the preservation of national heritage. The Ambassador made a special mention of the shared love of horse riding. Joint initiatives in the field of equestrian sports are currently being considered, including possible visits by Pakistani female athletes.
Turkmenistan marks the 35th anniversary of its independence with achievements and prospects
16.07.2026In 2026, Turkmenistan will mark the 35th anniversary of its independence. Over this period, the country has developed its own model of political, socio-economic and cultural development, strengthened its international ties and implemented large-scale infrastructure projects. This was reported by the news agency TDH. Turkmenistan currently maintains diplomatic relations with 161 states and cooperates with 55 international and regional organisations. The country’s foreign policy is based on the principles of neutrality, equality, mutual respect and mutually beneficial cooperation. Turkmenistan’s permanent neutrality was recognised by the UN General Assembly in 1995, 2015 and 2025. This status shapes the country’s foreign policy strategy and its participation in international initiatives aimed at strengthening Peace and Trust. On 26 May 2026, Turkmenistan spoke on behalf of the Group of Friends of Neutrality at a high-level open debate in the UN Security Council. The principle of ‘The State is for the People!’ occupies an important place in state policy. The social orientation of development is reflected, in particular, in the structure of investment: in the first half of 2026, 54.9 per cent of funds utilised were allocated to social and cultural projects, whilst 45.1 per cent went towards industrial facilities. Since gaining independence, Turkmenistan has been implementing reforms aimed at diversifying the economy, developing the private sector, modernising industry and expanding export potential. Within the framework of national development programmes, particular attention is paid to industrialisation, digital transformation and the introduction of innovative technologies. The gas sector continues to play a significant role in the economy. The country is developing the gas chemical industry and the production of high value-added products. In Ovadandepe, there is a GTL plant producing Euro-5 standard ECO-93 petrol, liquefied petroleum gas and diesel fuel. Projects to expand natural gas processing are also underway. The electricity sector is also developing. Turkmenistan meets its domestic needs and exports electricity to neighbouring states. Alongside conventional energy sources, the country is developing renewable energy sources, including a hybrid solar-wind power station project in the Balkan velayat. In the chemical industry, plants have been established to produce nitrogen and phosphate fertilisers. These include the Garabogaz Urea-Ammonia Plant, the Mary and Tejen Urea Plants, and the Turkmenabat Chemical Plant. Projects to construct new production facilities are being implemented in collaboration with foreign partners. The textile industry remains one of the key sectors. The country is home to full-cycle enterprises, cotton-spinning and weaving plants, as well as garment, silk-processing and footwear factories. Turkmen textiles are exported to dozens of countries around the world. Since independence, agriculture has been transformed into a major agro-industrial complex. Reforms are being carried out in the area of management, and market mechanisms and resource-saving technologies are being introduced. The main objectives remain ensuring food security, developing processing and increasing export potential. Significant changes have taken place in the transport and communications sector. Major projects include the Turkmenbashi International Seaport, Ashgabat International Airport, the ‘Kazakhstan–Turkmenistan–Iran’ railway, the ‘Ashgabat–Turkmenabat’ motorway and the national telecommunications satellite ‘TürkmenÄlem 52°E’. The country continues to develop its transport infrastructure and strengthen its position as a Eurasian transit hub. Over the past 35 years, the appearance of Turkmenistan’s towns and villages has changed. New residential complexes, settlements and social facilities have been built in the regions. The city of Arkadag, established on the initiative of the National Leader of the Turkmen people, Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov, holds a special place. In accordance with the ‘Concept for the Development of the City of Arkadag for 2024–2052’, the construction of the city’s second phase is underway, comprising more than 220 facilities built to digital standards. The historical and cultural monuments of Ancient Merv, Kunya-Urgench and the fortress of Ancient Nisa are included on the UNESCO World Heritage List. The Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity also includes the epic art of ‘Gorogly’, the art of ‘kushtdepdi’, traditional Turkmen carpet-weaving and embroidery, the art of making and playing the dutar, as well as the art of breeding Ahal-Teke horses and the traditions of their adornment. Thus, over the 35 years of its independence, Turkmenistan has strengthened its international standing, developed its industry, transport and social infrastructure, expanded cultural cooperation and laid the foundations for further economic and social development.
Modern approaches to pre-school education are being discussed in Turkmenistan
16.07.2026A two-day UNICEF seminar on improving the pre-school education system is taking place in Turkmenistan. This was reported by the news website Turkmenportal. The event has been organised in collaboration with the country’s Ministry of Education and brings together representatives from relevant government departments, teacher-training universities, institutes and specialists from across the country. The seminar is being led by UNICEF international expert Cristian Fabbi. As part of his visit, he will visit nurseries in Ashgabat and hold consultations on the training of nursery teachers. Participants will also discuss modern approaches to teaching children and the updating of teacher training programmes.
Turkmenistan and Germany discussed the development of trade and economic cooperation
16.07.2026On 15 July 2026, a meeting took place at the Foreign Affairs Ministry of Turkmenistan between Myahri Byashimova, Deputy Foreign Affairs Minister of Turkmenistan, and Michael Harms, Executive Director of the German Committee on Eastern European Economic Relations. This was reported by the press office of the Foreign Affairs Ministry of Turkmenistan. The parties noted the high level of friendly relations between Turkmenistan and the Federal Republic of Germany and discussed the further development of cooperation. The main focus was on expanding trade and economic ties, including the introduction of German technologies into Turkmenistan’s industry, cooperation in the energy sector, the development of renewable energy sources and the efficient use of water resources. They also explored opportunities for joint infrastructure projects, taking into account Turkmenistan’s transit and logistics potential, and ways to strengthen cooperation with German financial institutions. Following the meeting, the parties reaffirmed their interest in further expanding bilateral dialogue.
A student from Turkmenistan is undertaking an internship in Germany as part of the DAAD programme
16.07.2026Chynar Garlyeva, a third-year student specialising in ‘Mechatronics and Robotics’ at the Oguz Han Engineering and Technology University of Turkmenistan, is taking part in the German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD) summer educational programme, which is being held in Germany from 1 to 30 July. This was reported by the news agency ‘Turkmenistan: Golden age’. She was selected to take part in the programme following a competitive selection process, having demonstrated high academic achievement, research potential and professional training. The DAAD programme brings together students from different countries every year. It aims to develop language skills and intercultural communication, broaden professional knowledge and strengthen international academic cooperation. As part of the programme, participants attend 25 academic hours of classes per week. At the Goethe-Institut, Chynar Garlyeva is taking a four-week intensive German language course and learning about German culture, history and traditions. The programme also involves studying the expertise of leading German universities and scientific and educational institutions in the fields of engineering, automation and modern technologies. Students at the Oguz Han University of Engineering and Technology of Turkmenistan regularly take part in international academic exchange programmes, broadening their professional knowledge and gaining international experience.
The Ambassador of Turkmenistan took part in discussions with the EU on the development of the Trans-Caspian route
16.07.2026Sapar Palvanov, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of Turkmenistan to Belgium, took part in a meeting between the ambassadors of Central Asian countries and the leadership of EU institutions, dedicated to the implementation of the agreements reached at the joint summit. This was reported by IIC of Turkmenistan. During the event, which took place in Brussels, participants discussed the development of the Trans-Caspian route, the promotion of the European ‘Global Gateway’ initiative, attracting investment, security issues and the schedule for upcoming meetings. During the discussion, Sapar Palvanov emphasised the importance of systematic dialogue in achieving concrete results, whilst EU representatives commended Ashgabat’s proactive approach and reaffirmed their readiness to strengthen the bilateral partnership.
A formal reception was held in Ashgabat to mark France’s National Day
16.07.2026A formal reception was held at the ‘Ýyldyz’ Hotel in Ashgabat to mark France’s national holiday, Bastille Day. The event was attended by Nazar Agahanov, Minister of Trade and Foreign Economic Relations of Turkmenistan, as well as representatives of European and other foreign diplomatic missions, according to the news website Turkmenportal. In his welcoming address, Philippe Merlin, the French Ambassador to Turkmenistan, referred to the recent G7 summit in Evian and elaborated on key aspects of the bilateral partnership. The diplomat emphasised that the visit to Paris in 2025 by the National Leader of the Turkmen people and Chairman of the Halk Maslahaty of Turkmenistan, Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov, had given a powerful boost to economic ties. The diplomat thanked leading French companies operating successfully in the Turkmen market in the fields of construction, space, energy and agriculture. Particular attention was paid in the speech to humanitarian cooperation. The Ambassador noted that, due to the support of the country’s Ministry of Education, around 20,000 Turkmen citizens are studying French. Furthermore, the two sides are successfully continuing joint archaeological excavations at the Ulug-Depe site, speleological research in Koytendag and cultural projects organised by the French Institute. To conclude his speech, Philippe Merlin quoted Charles de Gaulle and called for the further active development of bilateral relations.
A meeting of the Halk Maslahaty of Turkmenistan will take place in September
16.07.2026On 15 July 2026, the Presidium of the Halk Maslahaty of Turkmenistan adopted a Resolution to convene a session of the Halk Maslahaty of Turkmenistan. This was reported by the online news site AsmanNews. According to the document, the session will take place on 23 September 2026 in Ashgabat at the ‘Maslahat köşgi’ Palace. The Halk Maslahaty of the velayats and the city of Ashgabat must submit to the Secretariat of the Halk Maslahaty of Turkmenistan, by 1 September 2026, lists of public representatives to be included in the composition of the Halk Maslahaty of Turkmenistan from the velayats, the city of Ashgabat and the city of Arkadag. The Resolution was signed by Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov, Chairman of the Halk Maslahaty of Turkmenistan.
An Organising Committee has been set up in Turkmenistan to organise the meeting of the Halk Maslahaty
16.07.2026On 15 July 2026, the Presidium of the Halk Maslahaty of Turkmenistan adopted a Resolution on the establishment of an Organising Committee to hold a high-level session of the Halk Maslahaty of Turkmenistan to mark the 35th anniversary of the country’s independence. This was reported by the news agency TDH. According to the document, the composition of the Organising Committee has been approved. The Secretariat of the Halk Maslahaty of Turkmenistan, in conjunction with the Mejlis of Turkmenistan, has been tasked with providing organisational and methodological support to the velayat, etrap and city Halk Maslahaty in the preparation and conduct of the session, as well as coordinating the relevant work. The Resolution was signed by Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov, Chairman of the Halk Maslahaty of Turkmenistan.
Hero Arkadag addressed a meeting of the Presidium of the Halk Maslahaty of Turkmenistan
16.07.2026On 15 July, at a meeting of the Presidium of the Halk Maslahaty of Turkmenistan, the National Leader of the Turkmen people and Chairman of the Halk Maslahaty of Turkmenistan, Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov, outlined the main tasks for preparing for the 35th anniversary of the country’s independence and for holding the next session of the Halk Maslahaty. This was reported by the online news portal AsmanNews. The National Leader of the Turkmen people noted that at an extended meeting of the Cabinet of Ministers of Turkmenistan on 10 July, the results of the country’s socio-economic development for the first half of 2026 were summarised. During the meeting, the President of Turkmenistan instructed that preparations be made for the independence anniversary and for the Halk Maslahaty meeting to be held at a high level. Hero Arkadag emphasised that in September, Turkmenistan will mark the 35th anniversary of its independence. As part of the preparations for the celebrations, the Law of Turkmenistan ‘On the Approval of the Turkmenistan Jubilee Medal “Türkmenistanyň Garaşsyzlygynyň 35 ýyllygyna bagyşlanyp geçirilen dabaraly harby ýörişe gatnaşyja”’ was adopted. The Chairman of the Halk Maslahaty of Turkmenistan announced that, during the independence celebrations, a session of the Halk Maslahaty would be held to review the work carried out, the results achieved and the tasks required to meet contemporary demands. Furthermore, Hero Arkadag highlighted the participation of Turkmen youth in international events in Uzbekistan, Azerbaijan, Turkey and other countries. Meetings and events on horse breeding were also organised in the United States of America, the People’s Republic of China, the United Kingdom and the Republic of Tatarstan. The ‘Galkynyş’ national equestrian games group showcased Turkmen equestrian art in Azerbaijan and Turkey, whilst Turkmen riders secured podium places at competitions in Kazan. The speech also outlined objectives for the country’s further socio-economic development. Officials have been instructed to analyse measures to maintain economic stability, develop industries, implement investment projects and improve the standard of living of the population. Priorities include job creation, the development of youth policy, the strengthening of the social protection system, the introduction of new teaching methods, the training of specialists, the modernisation of the oil and gas, chemical, construction, energy, textile and agricultural sectors, as well as ensuring food security. Hero Arkadag emphasised that the Halk Maslahaty of Turkmenistan must continue to work in cooperation with the Mejlis, the Government, state bodies and public organisations, focusing on the implementation of state programmes and the preparation of new proposals. In accordance with Article 19 of the Constitutional Law of Turkmenistan ‘On the Halk Maslahaty of Turkmenistan’ the Secretariat of Halk Maslahaty, together with the Organising Committee, has been tasked with organising explanatory events, preparing the agenda for the session, the necessary documents and materials, ensuring coordination with state bodies, considering citizens’ appeals and working on proposals to award honours to deserving compatriots. In conclusion, the Hero Arkadag noted that the Halk Maslahaty faces the tasks of further developing the country and implementing programmes for socio-economic growth. He emphasised the need to develop new initiatives aimed at ensuring the well-being of the population and creating comfortable living conditions for citizens. The National Leader of the Turkmen people announced the start of preparations for organising a high-level session of the Halk Maslahaty of Turkmenistan and expressed his confidence in the successful conduct of the forthcoming socio-political event.
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