News
The New Year's performance ‘Winged Steeds’ attracted audiences in Ashgabat
27.12.2025The New Year's circus performance ‘Winged Steeds’ took place in Ashgabat. The programme became one of the festive events of the winter season, according to IIC. The highlight of the evening was the performance of the national equestrian group ‘Galkynysh’. The artists presented elements of horseman riding on Ahal-Teke horses. The group is a six-time world champion and winner of the Monte Carlo festival in 2025. The performance was opened by aerial gymnast Aylar Bebilova. The programme also featured aerial gymnasts, tightrope walkers, jugglers and acrobats. The audience was treated to performances with animals, including Indian monkeys and German poodles. Representatives of a circus dynasty — a mother and daughter — took part in the show. A separate episode was a snake dance performed by young gymnasts, symbolising the end of 2025 and the transition to 2026, whose symbol is the horse. The finale of the evening was the appearance of Ayaz Baba and Garpamyk riding Ahal-Teke horses. The ‘Winged Racers’ programme will run in Ashgabat until 11 January.
The Minister of Foreign Affairs of Turkmenistan presented the results of the foreign policy course
27.12.2025A ceremony entitled International Year of Peace and Trust: Steadfast Steps of Neutral Turkmenistan’ was held in Ashgabat, at which Rashid Meredov, Deputy Chairman of the Cabinet of Ministers and Foreign Affairs Minister of Turkmenistan, announced the main results of the country's foreign policy activities, according to the state news agency ‘Turkmenistan: Golden age’. The Foreign Affairs Minister noted that Turkmenistan's current foreign policy is based on three interrelated principles: neutrality, peace and trust. According to him, it is these approaches that shape the image of the state as a responsible member of the UN and a reliable partner in solving pressing international issues. Rashid Meredov stressed that the past year was marked by the active promotion of neutrality as an effective diplomatic tool. He stated that the work done contributed to a deeper understanding by the international community of the importance of Turkmenistan's neutral status as a factor in ensuring security, peace and sustainable development. Hundreds of events were organised in Turkmenistan and abroad as part of the implementation of the country's foreign policy initiatives. Particular attention was paid to interaction with the international media and expert circles in order to explain the content and practical significance of the policy of neutrality. The results of the year confirmed the sustained interest and positive assessment of Turkmenistan's foreign policy in the international arena, as well as its contribution to the development of a culture of dialogue between states.
Japanese expert gave a lecture on traditional crafts for Turkmen students
26.12.2025Yuki Tokunaga, a specialist from Tokyo University in Japan and founder of the ‘Culpedia’ portal, gave a lecture on ‘Japanese Culture from the Perspective of Traditional Crafts’ to students and teachers at the Turkmen State Institute of Culture. This was reported by the news website Turkmenportal. The specialist is known for his research and projects on the preservation of traditional crafts and intangible cultural heritage, as well as his lectures on cultural exchange and strengthening international friendship. His presentations on the revival of disappearing crafts are of particular interest to young people. Following the lecture, the expert noted the high level of interest among Turkmen students in world culture. He also attended a performance by the ‘Miras’ folk-dance ensemble, familiarised himself with the practical classes of the Department of Restoration and Museum Studies, and showed interest in the exhibition of national artefacts.
Deputy EU Ambassador to Turkmenistan outlines priorities for cooperation
26.12.2025Deputy Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the European Union to Turkmenistan Maciej Adam Madalinski officially took office on 1 September this year. The Diplomat gave an interview to the news website Turkmenportal. According to the Deputy Ambassador, in his first months on the job, he held a series of meetings at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Turkmenistan, as well as with representatives of partner countries' embassies and international organisations. In addition, Madalinski took part in the International Conference ‘The Role of Women in Modern Society,’ held in the ‘Awaza’ National Tourist Zone on the eve of the 30th anniversary of Turkmenistan’s neutrality. Speaking about his first impressions of the country, the EU representative noted the hospitality of the Turkmen people, the national cuisine and the developed urban infrastructure. He stressed that he intends to visit all regions of the country and get to know its peculiarities more deeply. Madalinski named support for the private sector, the development of trade and transport, ‘green’ transformation and interaction with civil society as key achievements in cooperation between Turkmenistan and the European Union. He also highlighted the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development's programme ‘Consulting for Small Businesses in Turkmenistan,’ implemented with EU support in 2018–2025. In the field of ecology and climate, the Diplomat highlighted the project ‘EU for a Green Turkmenistan: Policy Dialogue and Climate Action’, aimed at developing renewable energy and reducing emissions. Among the key events of 2026, the Diplomat announced the first ‘EU-Turkmenistan’ Business Forum, scheduled for March 2026, as well as the preparation of the ‘EU-Central Asia’ Women's Forum and the participation of Turkmen youth in the Civil Society Forum in Bishkek. The possibility of holding a high-level meeting in Brussels is also being discussed. In conclusion, Maciej Adam Madalinski noted the symbolism of jointly celebrating the International Year of Peace and Trust and expressed his hope for further deepening of the dialogue between the European Union and Turkmenistan.
Turkmen student awarded first-class diploma at ‘New Science Award 2025’ competition
26.12.2025Mukam Saryev, a student at the Seyitnazar Seydi Turkmen State Pedagogical Institute, won the ‘New Science Award 2025’ International competition, which was held in the Russian Federation. This was reported by the IIC. The fourth-year ‘Biology’ speciality student was awarded a first-degree diploma for his research work, which was highly praised by the expert jury. Students and young researchers from various countries took part in the competition, presenting their developments in the field of natural sciences. As a result of the competition, the Turkmen student's research was included in a collection of the winners' works and placed in the official archive of the ‘New Science Award’, confirming its scientific and practical significance. Mukam Saryev's achievement reflects the high level of training of specialists at the Turkmen State Pedagogical Institute, as well as contributing to the development of international scientific cooperation and strengthening the position of Turkmen science and education system in the international arena.
The Turkmen Agricultural Institute hosted an international conference
26.12.2025The Turkmen Agricultural Institute hosted the Second International Scientific and Practical Online Conference ‘The Role of Biotechnology in the Sustainable Development of the Agricultural Sector.’ This was reported by the state news agency ‘Turkmenistan: Golden age.’ The forum was attended by representatives of 88 universities and research centres from 14 countries, including Turkmenistan, Russia, Belarus, Tajikistan, Uzbekistan, Kazakhstan, Azerbaijan, Armenia, Georgia, India and Pakistan. The plenary session was opened by the rector of the Turkmen Agricultural Institute, D. Yolov. Foreign experts then gave presentations via video link on the application of biotechnology in the agricultural sector. The conference continued in three sections: ‘Genetics and Innovation in Agrobiotechnology’, ‘Bioresources, Bioremediation and Sustainability’, and ‘Education and Capacity Building in the Agro-Industrial Complex.’ A total of 260 reports were presented. The best presentations were reviewed at the final meeting. The event included an exhibition of scientific developments and projects in the agro-industrial complex. Following the conference, participants noted the practical focus of the discussions and the importance of such meetings for the development of agricultural science and inter-university cooperation.
Diplomats and representatives of international organisations honoured in Turkmenistan
26.12.2025President of Turkmenistan Serdar Berdimuhamedov signed a Resolution on awarding the commemorative silver medal ‘Türkmenistanyň hemişelik Bitaraplygynyň 30 ýyllygy’ (‘30 Years of Permanent Neutrality of Turkmenistan’) to Heads and representatives of diplomatic missions of foreign states and international organisations accredited in Turkmenistan. This was reported by AsmanNews. The award was given for their contribution to strengthening the independence and legal status of Turkmenistan's Permanent Neutrality, promoting a policy of Peace and Trust, as well as for many years of state and public activity. The decision was timed to coincide with the 30th anniversary of the country's Permanent Neutrality. Among those awarded were the Ambassadors Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the United States, Azerbaijan, Iran, Germany, Uzbekistan, the Russian Federation, Tajikistan, the Republic of Turkey and Japan, the Chargé d'Affaires of the Embassy of the Republic of Korea, the UNICEF representative in Turkmenistan, and the Head of the Asian Development Bank Representative Office. Citizens of Turkmenistan were also awarded the commemorative medal, including representatives of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the Academy of Sciences of Turkmenistan, the Ministry of Health and Medical Industry, as well as specialists in the field of state protocol and international relations.
Turkmenistan's fuel and energy complex: key achievements in 2025
26.12.2025In 2025, Turkmenistan continued to actively implement its energy strategy aimed at modernising the fuel and energy complex and developing innovative technologies. This was reported by the news website Asmannews. The State Concerns ‘Türkmennebit’, ‘Türkmengaz’ and ‘Türkmengeologiýa’ Corporation focused on exploring and developing new fields, increasing hydrocarbon production and processing, ensuring reliable energy transportation and expanding international cooperation. An important event was the continuation of the construction of the Turkmenistan-Afghanistan-Pakistan-India (TAPI) gas pipeline, including the launch of the ‘Arkadagyň ak ýoly’ stage on the ‘Serhetabat-Herat’ section. This project will not only ensure gas supplies to Asian countries, but also create jobs in Afghanistan and bring the country annual revenues of over $1 billion. Turkmenistan is actively developing energy exports and is engaged in the industrial development of the Caspian Sea shelf and the world's largest onshore gas field, ‘Galkynysh’. A new well has been put into operation at the ‘Uzynada’ field, and geological exploration and infrastructure construction are continuing, including the third oil loading berth at the ‘Kenar’ enterprise. The country is demonstrating its commitment to international climate obligations by reducing emissions at the Darwaza gas crater. Turkmenistan is also actively participating in international forums and exhibitions, such as ‘TEIF 2025’, ‘ADIPEC-2025’ and ‘Oil and Gas of Turkmenistan – 2025’, attracting investment and strengthening international cooperation. An office of ‘ADNOC’ has opened in Ashgabat, which is developing blocks in the Caspian Sea in partnership with ‘Petronas’ and national companies. Overall, the country's fuel and energy complex showed consistent development in 2025 and made a significant contribution to the implementation of the National Socio-Economic Development Programme for 2022-2052.
Turkmenistan and UNDP update biodiversity conservation strategy
25.12.2025On 24 December, a seminar was held in Ashgabat, marking a new stage of cooperation between UNDP and the Ministry of Environment of Turkmenistan. The main purpose of the event was to update the National Strategy for Action and prepare the 7th National Report for the UN Convention on Biological Diversity, according to the online news resource TerraNews. The seminar was attended by representatives of ministries, scientists and experts from the private sector. Discussions focused on aligning national plans with the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework, adapting environmental policy to the 2030 goals, the results of previous initiatives (GEF-7) and integration with the BIOFIN programme to find new sources of funding for nature conservation. The updated strategy and action plan for biodiversity conservation describe measures to protect Turkmenistan's ecosystems in the context of climate change. The country is participating in a global project with 139 participants, confirming its commitments to the UN.
Turkmenistan and Iran agree to expand transit through Serakhs
25.12.2025The border authorities of Turkmenistan and Iran have reached an agreement to increase transit traffic through the Serakhs checkpoint. This was reported by the news website Asmannews. The negotiations were held in Serakhs itself. During the meeting, the parties also confirmed their intention to continue cooperation in order to ensure security on the common border. Following the negotiations, a border protocol was signed, providing for the expansion of transit flows, as well as the coordination of customs service operating modes and schedules. The Serakhs railway and road checkpoint is located in north-eastern Iran, 185 kilometres from Mashhad, on the border with Turkmenistan.
A meeting on health emergencies was held in Ashgabat
25.12.2025On 24 December, a meeting was held in Ashgabat at the ‘Yyldyz’ Hotel to discuss planning, preparedness and response to public health emergencies at Turkmenistan's entry points. This was reported by IIC. The event was organised by the World Health Organisation Country Office in Turkmenistan and the Ministry of Health and Medical Industry of Turkmenistan. The meeting was attended by representatives of the State Veterinary Service under the Ministry of Agriculture of Turkmenistan, health care institutions, customs, border and migration services, civil defence authorities and other relevant agencies. Participants discussed the implementation of measures to strengthen national preparedness and response mechanisms at points of entry, as well as the coordination of inter-agency approaches in accordance with the requirements of the International Health Regulations (IHR). Separate consideration was given to issues of advisory and technical support from the Ministry of Health and Medical Industry of Turkmenistan and the WHO Country Office, as well as joint plans to improve the effectiveness of responses to public health emergencies. The report was presented by Arslan Soltanmyradov, Head of the International and Scientific Relations Department of the State Veterinary Service under the Ministry of Agriculture of Turkmenistan. He noted the role of the veterinary service in intersectoral cooperation in preventing and responding to biological threats, including zoonotic diseases. Following the meeting, priorities for further cooperation were identified and practical steps were agreed upon to strengthen coordination, information exchange and the readiness of control services at entry points.
Turkmenistan expanded international cooperation in 2025
25.12.2025In 2025, Turkmenistan continued to actively develop its foreign policy based on the principles of positive neutrality. The year was marked by the International Year of Peace and Trust and the 30th anniversary of the country's Permanent Neutrality, which has been confirmed three times by Resolutions of the UN General Assembly, according to TDH. Important events included visits by the National Leader of the Turkmen people, Chairman of the Halk Maslahaty of Turkmenistan Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov to Monaco and France. During meetings with Prince Albert II of Monaco and French President Emmanuel Macron, the prospects for bilateral cooperation were discussed. A Turkmen-French economic forum was also held in Paris. Relations with Italy received new impetus. In October 2025, President of Turkmenistan Serdar Berdimuhamedov paid an official visit to the Italian Republic. In Rome, negotiations were held with Italian President Sergio Mattarella, a Turkmen-Italian business forum was held, and an archaeological exhibition entitled ‘Ancient Civilisations of Turkmenistan’ was opened. Cooperation with countries in the Asia-Pacific region developed actively. In April, the President of Turkmenistan visited Japan, took part in the events of Turkmenistan National Day at EXPO-2025 in Osaka, and held meetings with Emperor Naruhito of Japan, the Prime Minister of Japan, and representatives of the business community. In June, a state visit by the Head of State to Mongolia was held. Particular attention was paid to strengthening partnerships with neighbouring countries. In April, Hero Arkadag paid visits to Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan and Uzbekistan. In November, President of Turkmenistan Serdar Berdimuhamedov visited Uzbekistan and Kazakhstan. The negotiations focused on developing cooperation in the economy, energy, transport, industry and the humanitarian sphere. During this period, the Turkmen-Uzbek trade centre ‘Dashoguz-Shavat’ was put into operation. Dialogue with Azerbaijan and Georgia continued to develop. In July, the National Leader of the Turkmen people visited Azerbaijan, where prospects for cooperation and inter-parliamentary ties were discussed. In March, negotiations took place in Ashgabat between the President of Turkmenistan and the Prime Minister of Georgia, Irakli Kobakhidze. Turkmenistan continued its cooperation with Afghanistan, focusing on the implementation of major infrastructure projects. In October 2025, the next phase of the ‘Serhetabat-Herat’ gas pipeline was launched as part of the TAPI project. The country actively participated in multilateral formats and hosted major international events. In August, the Third UN Conference on Landlocked Developing Countries was held in Awaza, and in December, an International Forum dedicated to the International Year of Peace and Trust and Neutrality Day was held in Ashgabat. The results of 2025 confirmed the consistent nature of Turkmenistan's foreign policy, which is focused on developing international cooperation, strengthening trust and regional stability.
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