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Turkmenistan expands use of biological plant protection methods
28.01.2026In Turkmenistan, 370 biological farms have begun work on breeding entomophagous insects to protect agricultural crops from pests. This was reported by Turkmenportal, citing the newspaper ‘Neutral Turkmenistan’. Since mid-winter, biofactories, enterprises and laboratories, both state-owned and privately owned, have begun breeding beneficial insects. The main types of entomophages are lacewings and habrobracon. They are used to protect cotton at various stages of its development. Biological methods are used in conjunction with agrotechnical measures. The main pests remain spider mites, cotton bollworms, tobacco thrips and aphids, which affect plants at all stages of growth. To reduce the number of pests, plant residues are removed after harvesting and deep ploughing is carried out. During the growing season, along with insecticides and fungicides, organo-mineral fertilisers are used to increase the resistance of plants to diseases. All plant protection products are registered with the State Commission and tested for effectiveness, taking into account the soil and climatic conditions of Turkmenistan.
Representatives of Turkmenistan's universities are improving their qualifications in the UK
28.01.2026From 25 to 31 January, representatives of the education sector in Turkmenistan are attending advanced training courses for heads of higher education institutions in Central Asia in Cambridge (United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland). This was reported by the publication ‘Turkmenistan: Golden age’. The training is organised as part of the AELLCA Phase II project to improve the quality of English language teaching in Central Asia. The programme was developed for the management of higher education institutions in the participating countries in collaboration with the Cambridge University Press and Assessment Department and is based on the PRESETT (Pre-Service English Teacher Training) programme. On the first day of the visit, the opening ceremony of the training programme took place. This was followed by the first training module on leadership in implementing English language teaching reforms within the framework of PRESETT. Participants discussed issues related to planning educational changes and monitoring their implementation, and learned about Cambridge University's practices in modernising curricula and expanding the use of English. The main goal of the Turkmen delegation's participation is to develop management and leadership competencies within the PRESETT system. The programme also includes studying international experience in teacher training, modern approaches to curriculum development and assessment systems, and the use of digital technologies in education. The study visit to Cambridge continues.
Turkmenistan and Canada discussed expanding bilateral cooperation
28.01.2026On 27 January, Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs of Turkmenistan Ahmet Gurbanov held a meeting with Christopher Duggan, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of Canada to Turkmenistan (resident in Astana). This was reported by the press service of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Turkmenistan. The parties confirmed their mutual interest in expanding constructive dialogue. During the talks, the importance of regular political and diplomatic contacts was emphasised, and the similarity of approaches to a number of pressing international issues was noted. Trade, economic, cultural and humanitarian spheres were identified as priority areas for cooperation. The interlocutors also noted the positive experience of interaction on international platforms and expressed their readiness to continue the practice of mutual support for initiatives within the framework of the United Nations. In order to intensify bilateral ties, the possibility of holding inter-ministerial consultations in 2026 was considered, and the need to improve the legal framework was discussed.
The ports of Turkmenbashi and Baku strengthen their logistical partnership
28.01.2026A delegation from Turkmenistan, led by Parahat Jumayev, Director of the Turkmenbashi International Sea Port, on a working visit to Azerbaijan, held talks with Eldar Salahov, Director of Baku International Sea Port LLC. The meeting was also attended by Gurbanmammet Elyasov, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of Turkmenistan to Azerbaijan, according to the press service of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Turkmenistan. The parties noted the consistent strengthening of the strategic partnership between Turkmenistan and Azerbaijan, paying particular attention to the development of logistical cooperation between the ports of Turkmenbashi and Baku (Alyat). It was emphasised that cooperation is aimed at increasing cargo traffic across the Caspian Sea, developing the Middle Corridor and expanding transport links against the backdrop of growing mutual trade. In recent years, the parties have intensified their efforts to increase transport volumes and simplify cross-border and customs procedures. The reduction in tariffs for sea and rail services has contributed to the growth of multimodal transport and an increase in transit container transshipment. The development of the ports of Turkmenbashi and Baku (Alyat) is aimed at transforming them into key logistics hubs in the Caspian region, serving international ‘East-West’ corridors. The main route between the two ports provides transshipment of oil, various cargoes and railway cars. After modernisation, the port of Turkmenbashi has become a major transport hub, while the port of Baku in Alyat continues to expand its infrastructure and strengthen its position in freight and passenger transport. Special attention is paid to the development of the Caspian Sea–Black Sea international transit and transport corridor, including the prospects for increasing cargo traffic through the ports of Turkmenbashi, Baku, Poti, Batumi and Constanta. The importance of expanding cooperation with all interested parties, including the European Union, was emphasised. The meeting participants also discussed issues related to establishing effective information exchange to improve coordination within international transport routes.
Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov reviewed the progress of construction in the city of Arkadag
28.01.2026The National Leader of the Turkmen people, Chairman of the Halk Maslahaty of Turkmenistan Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov visited the city of Arkadag and familiarised himself with the progress of construction of facilities within the framework of the second phase of development. During the visit, Hero Arkadag inspected the modernised avenue, bridges and road transport infrastructure facilities, and held a working meeting with responsible officials, according to the state news agency TDH. Early in the morning, Hero Arkadag visited the bridge at the intersection of Geokdepe and Akhan avenues. Issues related to the strength of the supports, the quality of the structures and the accounting of freight traffic were discussed. Recommendations were made on the improvement of the surrounding area and the creation of green zones in accordance with modern requirements. The National Leader of the Turkmen people then headed to the central part of the city and familiarised himself with the construction of the second phase of residential buildings. Particular attention was paid to equipping educational institutions and medical centres with digital systems and modern technologies. The working meeting was attended by the Chairman of the State Committee for the Construction of the City of Arkadag under the President of Turkmenistan, D. Orazov, and the Mayor of Arkadag, G. Mammedova. The pace of construction, the introduction of a digital system and the implementation of the second phase of development were discussed. It was reported that more than 220 social, cultural and industrial facilities are being built as part of the second phase, including schools, kindergartens and apartment buildings with 5, 7 and 9 floors. Hero Arkadag emphasised the need to comply with international standards, effectively use global practices and take into account the opinions of residents when designing and finishing residential buildings. The importance of functional equipment for educational institutions was noted. The city's mayor reported on preparations for the upcoming holidays and the progress of residents' relocation to new homes. During the meeting, the need to speed up work, improve organisation, and strengthen control over the city's amenities and sanitary conditions was noted. It was emphasised that all construction work must be carried out with high quality and within the established deadlines. At the end of the visit, the Hero Arkadag wished the meeting participants success in accomplishing their tasks and departed from the venue.
Central Asian countries discussed the digitalisation of the financial system
28.01.2026The first International Forum on Finance and Digital Transformation was held in Dushanbe. Its key theme was the digitisation of the financial system, according to the ‘MIR24’ news portal. The event took place at the National Library. Experts from Tajikistan, Russia, Kyrgyzstan, Kazakhstan and Uzbekistan took part in it. Participants discussed the development of non-cash payments, the digitisation of the securities market and the use of technologies to increase the transparency and efficiency of public finance management. Umed Davlatzod, Director of the Finance Research Institute of the Ministry of Finance of the Republic of Tajikistan, noted that digital transformation reduces the influence of the human factor and requires investment in the training of specialists. Following the forum, cooperation documents were signed.
Turkmenistan and Eswatini strengthen cooperation in trade and investment
28.01.2026A business delegation from Turkmenistan visited the Kingdom of Eswatini to discuss cooperation in trade, investment and development. This was reported by the online publication ‘Business Turkmenistan’. The visit is being held as part of the implementation of agreements on the official establishment of diplomatic relations between the countries. The Turkmen delegation was received by Eswatini's Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, Pholile Shakantu, and Minister of Home Affairs, Princess Lindiwe. The parties expressed interest in developing investment dialogue and cooperation on international platforms on issues of peacekeeping and sustainable development.
Turkmen university to hold international online mechanics Olympiad
28.01.2026The State Energy Institute of Turkmenistan invites students from around the world to participate in the 5th Open International Internet Olympiad in Theoretical Mechanics, which will be held from 24 to 28 March. This was reported by the IIC of Turkmenistan. The competition is open to students of any course and specialisation and includes individual and team stages. Registration will last until 15 March: up to ten participants from each university are allowed in the individual competition, and one or two teams in the team competition. The Olympiad will be held in Turkmen, Russian and English. Individual participants will solve eight problems in statics, kinematics and dynamics in four hours, while teams will solve five problems in one hour. All tasks are available on the institute's digital platform with online assessment. Last year, the Olympiad brought together more than 700 students from 107 universities in 17 countries. The aim of the project is to identify talented young people, develop digital skills and strengthen international scientific cooperation. The event will be a notable intellectual platform in the spring and will highlight Turkmenistan's active participation in the global educational space.
The city of Arkadag signed the SPECA declaration on ‘smart cities’
28.01.2026The city of Arkadag has joined the declaration of intent to establish a Forum of Climate Smart Cities as part of the UN Special Programme for the Economies of Central Asia (SPECA), adopted on the sidelines of COP29. This was reported by the online publication ‘Business Turkmenistan’. The document was signed by the mayor of Arkadag, Gulshat Mammedova, on 23 January 2026 in Ashgabat during the SPECA economic forum. The SPECA Forum of Climate Smart Cities aims to promote the concept of ‘smart cities’ in Central Asia and support the implementation of regional climate initiatives. The 29th UN Climate Change Conference (COP29) was held in Baku from 11 to 22 November 2024, chaired by Azerbaijan.
Turkmenistan and Turkey have concluded agreements on the supply of cotton yarn
27.01.2026On 26 January, during trading on the foreign market, Turkish entrepreneurs concluded deals with Turkmen businessmen for the purchase of single carded unbleached cotton yarn for textile production. This was reported by the press service of the State Commodity and Raw Material Exchange of Turkmenistan (SCRMET). On the domestic market, local entrepreneurs signed contracts with the Ministry of Textile Industry of Turkmenistan for the supply of raw carded single cotton yarn for weaving, as well as raw carded single and single carded unbleached cotton yarn of class ‘A’. As a result of the auction, five deals were concluded for a total amount of 7.76 million manats and 466 thousand US dollars.
Turkmenistan and Italy expand cooperation in the field of education
27.01.2026On 26 January, Turkmenistan's Minister of Education Jumamyrat Gurbangeldiyev met with Luigi Ferrari, Italy's Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary to Turkmenistan. This was reported by the press service of the Ministry of Education of Turkmenistan. The parties discussed the development of cooperation in the field of education and noted its importance for bilateral dialogue. It was emphasised that the Turkmen education system is being modernised and integrated into the international educational space as part of the country's long-term development programme. The expansion of Turkmenistan's participation in Italian and European educational projects, including exchanges, language courses, internships and ‘Erasmus+’ programmes, was noted. The parties confirmed the high level of cooperation, including Italian language teaching, joint educational initiatives and cultural projects, and expressed interest in further strengthening ties. The Turkmen side invited Italian students to participate in international mathematics competitions in the spring of 2026.
Turkmen television strengthens cultural exchange with Japan
27.01.2026A meeting on the development of humanitarian and media cooperation with Japan was held at the International Information Centre (IIC) of Turkmenistan. This was reported by the online news resource TerraNews. Annasahet Kakayev, Deputy Chairman of the State Committee for Television, Radio Broadcasting and Cinematography, discussed prospects for cooperation with Nobuhiro Sudo, Second Secretary of the Culture and Information Department. The main focus was on expanding cooperation in the media sphere and cultural exchange, including interaction with the Nippon Foundation, which provides free rights to show animated and educational programmes. Turkmen specialists adapt Japanese content by translating and dubbing it. Japanese films and programmes are already being broadcast on national television channels: the ‘Yaşlyk’ channel broadcasts animation, while ‘Miras’ broadcasts programmes on Japanese culture and traditions. The parties confirmed their readiness to continue joint projects in film and television.
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