The President of Turkmenistan has been honored with a special award from the World Health Organization (WHO) “For contribution to the promotion of peace, unity, and diplomacy in healthcare.”
The distinction was presented on Monday, 16 February 2026, by Dr. Hans Kluge, WHO Regional Director for Europe, during an official meeting with the President.
According to the state news agency TDH, the award recognizes Turkmenistan’s consistent efforts to strengthen global peace and solidarity, as well as its commitment to international cooperation and the development of health diplomacy in partnership with the WHO and the United Nations.
President Berdimuhamedov noted that he views the award as a testament to the WHO’s high regard for the structural reforms and significant milestones achieved within the nation’s healthcare system.
During the meeting, it was emphasized that Turkmenistan places strategic importance on its collaboration with prestigious international organizations, particularly the UN and its specialized agencies. Protecting public health remains a cornerstone of Turkmenistan’s state policy. Under the “Saglyk” (Health) State Program, the country has implemented comprehensive measures for the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of various diseases.
The discussions also highlighted the ongoing modernization of the nation’s medical infrastructure, including the construction of advanced health centers, specialized hospitals, and a dedicated medical cluster in the city of Arkadag.
Furthermore, the promotion of healthy lifestyle principles continues to be a national priority, with the WHO serving as a reliable, long-term partner in these initiatives.
The President reaffirmed Turkmenistan’s readiness to build upon this positive experience and further expand its fruitful cooperation with the World Health Organization.
Dr. Hans Kluge is currently visiting Ashgabat to participate in the High-level Dialogue on Global Health Diplomacy, organized by the WHO. ///nCa, 17 February 2026