The National Leader of the Turkmen people and Chairman of the Halk Maslahaty of Turkmenistan, Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov, addressed an open meeting of the International Ahal-Teke Breeding Association, held in Kronenberg, the Kingdom of the Netherlands. This was reported by the news agency TDH.

At the start of his address, Hero Arkadag conveyed his greetings and best wishes to His Majesty King Willem-Alexander of the Netherlands, members of his family and the people of the country. He also expressed his gratitude to Prime Minister Rob Jetten for his support in developing relations of friendship and cooperation with Turkmenistan.

Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov highlighted the international significance of the events dedicated to Ahal-Teke horses. Kronenberg brought together horse breeders, researchers, specialists and representatives of associations from dozens of countries across Asia, Europe, North and South America.

In his speech, he emphasised that the Ahal-Teke horse is an integral part of the history and culture of the Turkmen people. Since gaining independence, Turkmenistan has continued its work to preserve and develop purebred Ahal-Teke breeds, drawing on centuries-old traditions of horse breeding.

The National Leader of the Turkmen people emphasised that modern equestrian sports complexes have been established in the country, scientifically based breeding programmes are being developed, DNA testing has been introduced to monitor bloodlines, and an electronic database has been created. The International Ahal-Teke Breeding Association, headquartered in Ashgabat, brings together horse breeders from dozens of countries.

Particular mention was made of the inclusion of the art of Ahal-Teke horse breeding and the traditions of horse decoration in UNESCO’s Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity. In 2012, a decision was taken to hold an annual International Ahal-Teke Horse Beauty Contest, timed to coincide with Turkmen Horse Day.

The Chair of the Halk Maslahaty of Turkmenistan emphasised the importance of further expanding international cooperation in the field of Ahal-Teke horse breeding. Turkmenistan is ready to participate in international equestrian events, scientific research and other initiatives aimed at developing this sector.

The speech also highlighted the international achievements of Turkmen equestrians in 2026. The ‘Galkynyş’ national equestrian troupe received international certificates from the World Circus Federation and the European Circus Association. The troupe performed in Azerbaijan, Turkey and other countries.

Turkmen riders took part in competitions in Tashkent and Kazan, where they secured prize places and awards. The Turkmen delegation also participated in equestrian events at Windsor Castle in the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland.

Hero Arkadag noted that hosting the World Equestrian Championships and the Ahal-Teke Horse Beauty Contest in Kronenberg helps to strengthen international ties and promote the Ahal-Teke breed.

In conclusion, Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov congratulated the participants on the start of the events and expressed his gratitude for the broad international participation in the open meeting of the International Ahal-Teke Breeding Association.