During his visit to Mary and Lebap velayats, Japanese Embassy Counsellor Hosaka Hideki presented 150 books to local libraries as part of a cultural exchange programme. This was reported by the IIC. The READ JAPAN PROJECT aims to broaden Turkmenistan's understanding of the traditions and modern life of the Land of the Rising Sun. The Japanese Embassy noted the high level of technical equipment in Turkmen libraries, which, in addition to book collections, also feature museum exhibitions and astronomical complexes. According to diplomats, such infrastructure creates ideal conditions for development and education. The donated literature is expected to become an important resource for students, researchers and anyone interested in Japanese culture. This step is intended to strengthen humanitarian cooperation between the two countries and open up new prospects for mutual cultural enrichment.
The third volume of the novel ‘The Great Seljuks’ by Turkmen historian and national writer Yazmyrat Mammedy has been added to the collection of historical fiction lovers, according to the online publication ‘Turkmenistan: Golden age’. The first two volumes have already gained popularity among readers, immersing them in the history of the Oguz and the formation of the Seljuk Empire. The new book covers the period of the formation of the Seljuk state, revealing the strategic interaction between the brothers Chagry-bek and Togrul-bek. By decision of the Great Council, Chagry-bek remains in Merv, controlling Khorasan, while Togrul-bek establishes a centre of power in the city of Rey and launches large-scale military campaigns. A separate chapter is devoted to the reign of Sultan Alp Arslan. The author describes in detail his military successes and outstanding strategic decisions. The narrative culminates in the Battle of Manzikert, where Alp Arslan won a decisive victory over the troops of the Byzantine Emperor Roman IV Diogenes, captured him and earned the title ‘Sultan of Sultans’. The novel ‘The Great Seljuks’ combines a rich historical narrative with accessible language. The publication is accompanied by original illustrations that allow readers to immerse themselves more deeply in the atmosphere of the era described, notes journalist Svetlana Chirtsova.
Within the framework of the Third UN Conference on Landlocked Developing Countries, a parallel high-level event was held on ‘International Year of Peace and Trust: building momentum towards SDG 16 that promotes peaceful and inclusive societies for sustainable development.’ This was reported by the press service of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Turkmenistan. The event was organised by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Turkmenistan and the United Nations Regional Centre for Preventive Diplomacy for Central Asia (UNRCCA). The discussion focused on the importance of peaceful dialogue, mutual trust and inclusive governance for achieving Sustainable Development Goal 16: strengthening justice, creating effective and accountable institutions, and building fair and inclusive societies. The discussion was attended by high-level representatives of states, international organisations and expert circles. Special Representative of the UN Secretary-General and Head of UNRCCA Kaha Imnadze, stressed that peace and trust are the foundation of sustainable development and integration. According to him, the prosperity of landlocked countries is impossible without sustainable political mechanisms, inclusive governance and good neighbourly relations. The participants noted that political stability, mutual trust and multilateral diplomacy are key to the implementation of the Awaza Action Programme, especially in the areas of trade, regional integration and sustainable economic growth.
CRRC Ziyang Co., Ltd. has successfully completed a major upgrade of a batch of diesel locomotives delivered to Turkmenistan in 2005. This was reported by Turkmenportal. The ceremony was attended by Berdi Saryev, Deputy General Director of JSC ‘Demirýollary’, Vepa Akmyradov, Director of the Locomotive Bureau, Baymyrat Atayev, Director of the Office, as well as CRRC Ziyang management and specialists. The contract for the overhaul was signed at the end of 2024, and in May 2025, the first batch of locomotives returned to the factory for comprehensive maintenance. The work included the repair of key components — bogies, diesel engines, electrical systems — as well as the installation of modern control, safety and ergonomic systems. Since the start of cooperation in 2004, CRRC Ziyang has delivered 294 locomotives to Turkmenistan, accounting for over 98% of domestic rail transport. The modernised trains will soon be delivered to the country for commissioning.
From 27 July to 3 August, the Bulgarian city of Blagoevgrad hosted the 32nd International Mathematical Competition for Students (IMC-2025). The Turkmen team performed successfully, winning two gold, two silver and three bronze medals in the individual competition, according to the news agency Orient. A total of 434 students from 52 countries took part in the competition. Over two days, participants solved complex problems in algebra, analysis, combinatorics and geometry. The Turkmenistan team included representatives from five leading universities in the country: Magtymguly Turkmen State University, the International University for the Humanities and Development, the Turkmen State Architectural and Construction Institute, the Seyitnazar Seydi Turkmen State Pedagogical Institute and the State Institute of Energy of Turkmenistan. For the students, the Olympiad was not only a test of their mathematical skills, but also a unique opportunity to meet peers from different countries and establish new friendships.
From 12 July to 10 August, students majoring in Chinese language, led by G. Bayramova, a lecturer at the Dovletmammet Azadi Turkmen National Institute of World Languages, are participating in an international summer internship at Northwest University in Xi'an (Shaanxi Province, China). This was reported by the news agency ‘Turkmenistan: Golden age’. The programme brought together Chinese language teachers and students from different countries, offering lectures, practical classes and master classes on modern teaching methods, as well as excursions to the university, museums and historical sights of Xi'an, the city where the Great Silk Road began. Participants learned about Chinese culture and traditions, including the tea ceremony. The internship promotes the exchange of experience, the development of intercultural relations and the improvement of professional skills. In addition, from 14 to 26 July, G. Rejepova, a language teacher at a university in Turkmenistan, took part in advanced training courses at the same university.
The women's national team of Turkmenistan has entered the TOP 50 of the world ranking of the International Chess Federation (FIDE) for the first time. The ranking is based on the average rating of the country's 10 best female chess players. This was reported by the news agency ‘Turkmenistan: Golden age’. In December 2022, the team was only in 105th place with a rating of 1528, and previously the team had been in the top 70. The new record was made possible due to a change in the coaching staff, stricter selection, systematic training and psychological support. Under the guidance of head coach Shahruh Turayev, young talents have emerged. A particular success was the gold medal in category C at the 45th World Chess Olympiad in Budapest in September 2024, where the team finished 32nd in the overall standings. The training included training camps in Antalya with international coaches, including Grandmaster Vasily Ivanchuk. The Turkmenistan Chess Federation sees these achievements as a foundation for further development. Plans include participation in international tournaments and preparation for the 2026 Olympiad in Samarkand with the aim of entering the top 40 teams in the world.
The final press conference on the results of the Third UN Conference on Landlocked Developing Countries (LLDC 3) was held in the ‘Avaza’ National Tourist Zone. This was reported by the news agency Orient. The UN Under-Secretary-General and High Representative for the Least Developed Countries, Landlocked Developing Countries and Small Island Developing States, Rabab Fatima, described the forum as the largest and most ambitious event in the history of the LLDCs. Rabab Fatima thanked Turkmenistan for the high level of organisation and noted that Avaza has become a symbol of new opportunities for 600 million people in these countries, demonstrating their significant potential despite geographical constraints. The conference brought together more than 5,700 participants from 103 countries, 16 Heads of Government, 3 Vice-Presidents and more than 100 ministers, as well as representatives of NGOs and youth. Among the main outcomes were the establishment of an International Day of the LLDCs, the creation of a new climate negotiation group, the launch of a Global Business Network for these countries, and the announcement of a $10 billion investment from the Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank. Turkmenistan presented projects in the fields of circular economy, sustainable transport and medicine. Rabab Fatima emphasised that the success of the programme depends on joint efforts by governments, parliamentarians, businesses, civil society and young people. She noted that what matters most are not words, but real actions that will change the lives of millions of people.
On 8 August, the National Tourist Zone ‘Avaza’ hosted the closing session of the Third UN Conference on Landlocked Developing Countries (LLDC 3). This was reported by the news agency Orient. The parties noted that Avaza has become a symbol of new partnership and decisive action. The main outcomes were the Awaza Action Programme and the Awaza Political Declaration, which aim to turn geographical barriers into bridges. Five key priorities were identified: removing infrastructure constraints, developing the economy and production with a focus on agriculture and high-tech industries, integrating into world trade through the simplification of WTO procedures, mobilising resources for adaptation to climate change, and ensuring reliable financing through the expansion of international assistance and access to concessional loans. The UN expressed its support for the implementation of the programme and plans to create a roadmap to monitor progress. The conference emphasised the importance of multilateral cooperation, bringing together governments, business and society to enable landlocked countries to overcome geographical barriers through innovation and trade.
The Third UN Conference on Landlocked Developing Countries in the ‘Avaza’ National Tourist Zone was memorable not only for its important decisions, but also for its rich cultural programme. This was reported by the news agency Orient. The national pavilions of Central Asia and Azerbaijan transformed the fountain square into a vibrant oriental oasis with craft exhibitions, music, dancing and national cuisine. This created an atmosphere of friendship and mutual understanding, erasing the boundaries between peoples. The differences in the traditions and arts of the countries of the region coexisted harmoniously, reflecting the unique regional identity. Guests from more than 100 countries felt a special cultural unity. Cultural events became not just an addition to the economic agenda of the conference, but an important bridge for strengthening international ties through art and traditions.
Oguljahan Atabayeva, Vice-President for Medical Activities of the Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov Charitable Foundation for Assistance to Children in Need of Guardianship, held a meeting with Tanzila Narbayeva, Chairwoman of the Senate of the Oliy Majlis of Uzbekistan. This was reported by the news website Turkmenportal. The negotiations took place in the ‘Avaza’ National Tourist Zone as part of the national days of Central Asian countries and Azerbaijan at the Third UN Conference on Landlocked Developing Countries. The interlocutors noted the strengthening of strategic partnership and friendship between the peoples, discussed the development of economic diplomacy, regional cooperation, as well as plans to intensify bilateral ties and hold joint cultural events.
A festive concert featuring masters of culture and art from Central Asian countries and the Republic of Azerbaijan was held at the theatrical interactive complex of sea fountains located in the ‘Avaza’ National Tourist Zone. This was reported by the state news agency TDH. The event was the grand finale of a series of national days of friendly states held in this picturesque place. The final day was particularly eventful due to the National Days of Turkmenistan and Uzbekistan, which gave the holiday a unique flavour. The programme opened with an exhibition showcasing the traditions, crafts and cuisine of the two countries. Guests noted the beauty of the Caspian resort and the high level of organisation. Artists from Turkmenistan, Uzbekistan, Kazakhstan, Tajikistan, Kyrgyzstan and Azerbaijan performed folk, pop and classical music on stage. Light and water installations at the sea fountain complex added a special atmosphere to the programme, and the concert itself became a symbol of friendship, peace and shared values among the peoples of the region.