On 14 April 2026, the Cultural Center of the Embassy of Türkiye in Ashgabat hosted the opening ceremony of Türkiye Tourism Week.
Türkiye Tourism Week is an annual event held from 15 to 22 April to raise public awareness of tourism and the economic, social, and cultural significance of the travel industry. The event in Ashgabat is organized by the Embassy of Türkiye, the Ministry of Culture and Tourism of Türkiye, and the Türkiye Tourism Promotion and Development Agency (TGA).
The event was attended by members of the foreign diplomatic corps, public figures, and representatives of the mass media. A notable highlight of this year’s celebration in Ashgabat was the presence of Nadir Alparslan, Deputy Minister of Culture and Tourism of the Republic of Türkiye.
In his welcoming address, Ambassador Ahmet Demirok emphasized Türkiye’s appeal as a premier tourist destination: “With its geographical location, natural beauty, unique cuisine, excellent climate as well as historical and cultural richness, Türkiye is one of the most important touristic destinations in the world. My beautiful country Türkiye, presents excellent opportunities for many different touristic activities which can be carried out throughout all four seasons of the year.”
Ambassador Demirok added that tourism plays a vital role in bringing different cultures together and building bridges of friendship. He noted that it is also a key driver of the economy for many countries, including Türkiye.
“That is why, especially with the opening of the summer tourism season, holidaymakers and tourism facilities in Türkiye begin their preparations. We are also glad to say that, Türkiye is the top touristic destination of our Turkmen brothers and sisters,” he said.
Following the Ambassador, Deputy Minister Nadir Alparslan took the floor. He described the hosting of Tourism Week in Ashgabat as a “concrete testament” to the vibrant cultural ties between the two nations.
He continued: “The relations between Türkiye and Turkmenistan extend far beyond conventional diplomatic boundaries; they are rooted in a profound bond of fraternity shaped by the principle of “One Nation, Two States.” We are branches of the same civilizational river stretching from Anatolia to Central Asia. Today, we are determined to further strengthen these ancient ties through tourism—one of the most strategic bridges of the modern world.”
Alpaslan stressed the importance of sharing Türkiye’s extensive experience and the “Türkiye Model” with Turkmenistan: “When Turkmenistan’s unique historical heritage and natural beauty are combined with Türkiye’s strong global tourism brand, the Silk Road corridor will once again become one of the world’s most attractive tourism destinations.”
He concluded by underlining the goals of enhanced cooperation: “Our goal is to enhance mutual investments and to utilize our transportation networks more effectively through the collective wisdom and cooperation of our public and private sector representatives. It should be borne in mind that as we come together, we increase not only the number of visitors but also the prosperity of our brotherhood.”
Following the formal proceedings, guests were invited to experience Turkish hospitality firsthand with a reception featuring a variety of traditional Turkish dishes. ///nCa, 14 April 2026
Here are some photos from the event:
