At the Halk Maslahaty session on 23 September, President of Turkmenistan Serdar Berdimuhamedov outlined the key directions for the country’s socio-economic development in the coming years.
The speech focused on maintaining economic growth rates, further industrialization, developing the oil and gas and chemical sectors, power engineering, and agriculture, as well as constructing new facilities in healthcare, education, and social infrastructure.
By the end of 2026, GDP growth is expected to reach 6.3%, while total capital investments are projected to exceed 41.2 billion manats.
Key takeaways from the address by President of Turkmenistan Serdar Berdimuhamedov:
- Turkmenistan’s GDP growth in 2026 is expected to reach 6.3%. The President noted the steady growth rates of the national economy driven by increased production across various sectors.
- Nearly 5,300 new jobs are planned to be created by the end of 2026. These opportunities stem from the construction of new facilities and the reconstruction of existing enterprises under the Concept for the Development of the Labor Market in Turkmenistan up to 2030.
- Capital investments in national development will exceed 41.2 billion manats in 2026. Funds are earmarked for the construction and modernization of production and social infrastructure. The President instructed the drafting of the Program for Socio-Economic Development and Investments of Turkmenistan for 2027.
- Allocation of construction funds from the State Budget: 68.5% is directed toward industrial and production facilities, while 31.5% goes to social development. Priority areas for budget funding include education, healthcare, culture, and production infrastructure.
- Major infrastructure initiatives continue in the oil and gas sector. Construction of the Serhetabat–Herat section of the Turkmenistan–Afghanistan–Pakistan–India (TAPI) gas pipeline is progressing at an accelerated pace. Work also continues on new facilities at the Turkmenbashi Complex of Oil Refineries and the modernization of the Seydi Oil Refinery.
- Phase 4 of the Galkynysh gas field development was launched in 2026. It involves building a modern plant with a capacity of 10 billion cubic meters of commercial gas per year, creating more than 1,000 new jobs.
- Expansion in the building materials industry: A new enterprise producing dry construction mixes and drywall products is scheduled for launch in the Koytendag district of Lebap province in 2026.
- New projects underway in the chemical industry: A urea manufacturing complex is under construction in the Turkmenbashi district of Balkan province, alongside a mineral fertilizer plant in Turkmenabat. Plans are also set for a nitrogen fertilizer complex in the Garashsyzlyk district of Dashoguz province, a facility for producing technical iodine, bromine, and carbon black at the Balkanabat plant, and a unit for producing various salts at the Guwlyduz enterprise.
- Commissioning of a hybrid wind-solar power plant in the Kizylarvat district of Balkan province in 2026. Concurrently, construction of a combined-cycle power plant continues in the Turkmenbashi district.
- Transport infrastructure development: Construction of the Turkmenbashi–Garabogaz–Kazakhstan border highway is advancing rapidly, with the reconstruction of the Ashgabat–Dashoguz highway scheduled to begin in 2026.
- Phase two of Arkadag City construction is underway. The project provides for the further development of infrastructure in the country’s first “smart” city as part of a long-term program for modern urban complexes.
- Agricultural processing expansion: The foundation will be laid in Dashoguz province for an enterprise capable of processing 60,000 tons of industrial cottonseed to produce vegetable oil.
- A joint laboratory complex for research institutes of the Ministry of Agriculture will be commissioned in 2026. The facility is designed to advance research in crop farming, livestock breeding, and seed production.
- Agricultural achievements in 2026: Turkmen grain growers harvested over 1.4 million tons of wheat. Cotton output is expected to reach 1.25 million tons by the end of 2026, while the sericulture sector produced over 2,100 tons of silk cocoons.
- Participation in EXPO 2027: Turkmenistan will showcase a national exposition at the World Expo 2027 in Serbia.
- Modernization of the transport and communications sector: The country continues to expand transit capacity, explore international experience in artificial intelligence and digital services, and modernize its national merchant marine fleet.
- Healthcare sector expansions in 2026: Four major facilities are planned for opening: the International Pediatric Center, the International Scientific and Clinical Oncology Center, and the Dental Center in Ashgabat, alongside an additional treatment block at the Archman Sanatorium in Ahal province.
- Expansion of regional medical facilities: Foundations will soon be laid for 50 rural health houses and centers across the regions.
- New specialized medical institutions planned: Three international-level oncology centers in Mary, Balkan, and Lebap provinces; a tuberculosis hospital in Dashoguz province; a Regional Multidisciplinary Hospital in Mary; and inter-district multidisciplinary hospitals in Kizylarvat, Kunyaurgench, Kerki, and Yoloten districts.
- Education and youth policy: Construction of modern educational facilities will continue. The President emphasized the importance of the State Program on State Youth Policy for the Period up to 2031.
- Foreign policy and international relations: Turkmenistan will continue promoting its policy of neutrality and cooperation with the United Nations. The President highlighted the UN General Assembly’s adoption of two resolutions initiated by Turkmenistan this year—on the role of neutrality and declaring 2028 as the Year of International Law.
Full text of the presidential address:
Dear compatriots!
Esteemed participants of the Halk Maslahaty meeting!
In the era of the Revival of a powerful state, we celebrate Turkmenistan’s Independence Day with great pomp and ceremony. I wholeheartedly congratulate you and your people on the 35th anniversary of our sacred independence! I wish you good health, a happy life, and great success in your work!
Dear participants of the meeting!
The year 2026, declared “Independent Neutral Turkmenistan – the Homeland of Purposeful Heavenly Steeds,” has become significant for us in advancing our Motherland along the path to prosperity: we are successfully implementing adopted programs and taking effective measures for the country’s socio-economic development.
At the current meeting of the Halk Maslahaty of Turkmenistan, we will outline future objectives in the context of the further development of our independent state and adopt a number of important documents to ensure their successful implementation.
Dear participants of the meeting!
Consistent growth dynamics of the national economy are ensured through the “Revival of a New Era of a Powerful State: National Program for Socioeconomic Development of Turkmenistan in 2022–2052” program, the “Program for Socioeconomic Development of the Country in 2022–2028,” and the newly revised “National Program of the President of Turkmenistan for Improving the Social and Living Conditions of the Population of Villages, Towns, Etrap Cities, and Etrap Centers through 2028.”
Furthermore, economic modernization, thanks to the ambitious initiatives of the National Leader of the Turkmen People, Chairman of the Halk Maslahaty of Turkmenistan, Hero Arkadag, is being consistently pursued and is receiving particular attention.
At the same time, major programs are being implemented to strengthen citizens’ social security and significantly improve their social and living conditions. New modern villages, towns, and cities are being built, providing a favorable social environment for Turkmen citizens to live, work, and play comfortably.
Effective measures are also being taken to stimulate and improve entrepreneurial activity. Maintaining economic stability in the country through an effective combination of credit, tax, and pricing instruments is a major priority. Reforms to introduce digital technologies into the banking system and improve the national payment system are ongoing.
To improve citizens’ well-being, the state provides support and benefits in various areas. Specifically, comfortable residential buildings are being built for those in need using public funds, and additional social benefits are being provided.
Our primary goal for the coming years is to take socioeconomic development to a new level. Based on this, we will continue to make every effort to modernize the national economy and improve living standards.
Dear friends!
As a result of increased production across economic sectors, the gross domestic product growth rate remains at the target level. This macroeconomic indicator is expected to reach 6.3 percent by the end of this year.
The government places great importance on the consistent modernization of the country’s financial market. Particular attention is being paid to improving employment based on the Turkmenistan Labor Market Development Concept for the Period up to 2030. Through the construction of new and the renovation of existing enterprises, the number of jobs created by the end of the year will reach approximately 5,300. We will continue to work to significantly improve the employment system in accordance with the aforementioned Concept.
Dear participants of the meeting!
Our investment policy is a key factor in the dynamic development of the national economy. Successfully implemented projects in this area consistently strengthen our country’s economic potential.
The volume of capital investments to be utilized by the end of the year for the country’s development based on the “Program for the Socioeconomic Development of Turkmenistan and Investments for 2026” will amount to over 41 billion 200 million manats, which will create conditions for the construction and modernization of industrial and social infrastructure facilities.
Taking into account the planned tasks for the further development of the country, I instruct that the “Program for the Socio-Economic Development of Turkmenistan and Investments for 2027” be developed for their successful implementation in the coming year.
Dear participants of the meeting!
The national economy’s strong growth momentum allows for increased revenues to the state budget. Based on this, significant funds were allocated from the main financial plan this year for the development of education, healthcare, and culture, as well as the construction of industrial and social facilities. Of these, 68.5 % went to the construction of industrial facilities, and 31.5 % to social facilities.
Budget revenues have been increased through economic reform, innovative development, and an increase in the share of the private sector.
We will continue to work on the economic and industrial development of the country, as this is the main goal of our socio-economic strategy.
Dear compatriots!
One of the key objectives is to modernize the oil and gas industry using cutting-edge technologies. Major projects for the production, processing, and export of hydrocarbon resources, as well as the development of new fields, are being implemented on a programmatic basis. Construction of the Turkmenistan–Afghanistan–Pakistan–India gas pipeline section along the Serhetabat–Herat route, known as “Arkadagyň ak ýoly,” is currently progressing at an accelerated pace. Similarly, new facilities are being built within the Turkmenbashi Oil Refinery Complex. At the same time, effective measures are being taken to modernize the Seydi Oil Refinery.
The phased development of one of the world’s largest gas fields, Galkynysh, is also progressing successfully. This process will significantly expand the country’s industrialization and strengthen its position as an energy powerhouse.
This year, with the participation of Hero-Arkadag, the fourth phase of development of the Galkynyş field was launched – the construction of a modern plant with a capacity of 10 billion cubic meters of marketable gas per year. Over 1,000 new jobs will soon be created here.
Full implementation of such a significant project will increase hydrocarbon supply volumes, ensuring their reliable export. Overall, the fourth phase of the Galkynysh gas field development, as well as the construction of a modern village in the Yolotan district of the Mary province, have become some of the largest projects within the energy and social policy framework.
Dear friends!
The activities of the construction and industrial complex are also being consistently improved: this process is dictated by the desire to form innovative production.
Large-scale construction of industrial and social infrastructure facilities continues across the country. The construction materials industry is steadily increasing the volume and range of products produced.
This year, we will launch a modern facility for the production of building mixtures and plasterboard products in the Koytendag district of the Lebap province, thereby significantly strengthening the construction industry.
Effective measures are also being taken to create new production facilities in the chemical industry. This year, in the village of Guvlymayak, Turkmenbashi district, Balkan province, we will open a complex of residential buildings and other facilities for industry workers.
Currently, a urea production complex is being built in the Turkmenbashi district of the Balkan province, and a mineral fertilizer production complex is being built within the structure of the chemical plant in the city of Turkmenabat in the Lebap province.
Additionally, a new, modern nitrogen fertilizer production complex is planned for construction in the Garashsyzlyk district of the Dashoguz province; a new production facility for technical iodine and bromine, as well as carbon black, will be built at the Balkanabat iodine plant; and a workshop for the production of various salts will be built at the Guwlyduz enterprise.
Effective measures are also being taken to ensure reliable electricity exports and uninterrupted supplies to domestic consumers. The energy sector’s potential will be significantly boosted by the launch of a modern hybrid wind and solar power plant in the Kizylarvat district of the Balkan region this year. At the same time, construction of a combined-cycle power plant is accelerating in the Turkmenbashi district of the Balkan region.
To modernize highways and ensure their compliance with international standards, the material and technical infrastructure of the relevant industry is being consistently strengthened. At the same time, effective work on the construction of national highways continues. For example, this year, the Mary–Turkmenabat section of the Ashgabat–Turkmenabat highway, a total length of 600 kilometers, was commissioned.
Currently, a road is being built at an accelerated pace along the route Turkmenbashi-Garabogaz-Kazakhstan border.
In addition, this year we plan to begin reconstruction of the important Ashgabat-Dashoguz highway.
Overall, the reforms being implemented are aimed at transforming Turkmenistan into an advanced industrial and high-tech production center.
Dear compatriots!
Today, Turkmenistan has a strong industrial sector that ensures economic and sustainable development.
To consistently implement measures to transform the country into an advanced industrial state, it is necessary to adopt the National Strategy for Industrial Development of Turkmenistan for 2030–2045.
Dear friends!
Our social policy has resulted in effective development of the regions and the cities of Ashgabat and Arkadag. Arkadag, a unique “smart” city in country’s history, was built on the initiative of Hero Arkadag and serves as a symbol of a prosperous and happy life. Construction of its second phase is currently underway. As Hero Arkadag notes, we will continue our large-scale efforts to create “smart” cities.
Dear friends!
This year, marked by achievements, saw the start of construction on a new settlement for 4,500 households in the Yolotan district of the Mary province. And in Ashgabat, a ceremony will be held for the opening of modern residential complexes.
Furthermore, this year will see the opening of a modern village in the Kizylarvat district of the Balkan province, where our fortunate citizens will be provided with all the necessary amenities for a comfortable life.
All of this, demonstrating the success of the measures implemented for the well-being of our people, is the result of our policy, based on the motto, “The Motherland is the Motherland only with the people! The state is the state only with the people!”
Dear participants of the meeting!
Effective measures are being taken in agriculture to strengthen food security, supply raw materials to light industry, and improve production efficiency.
This year, the Dashoguz province is scheduled to lay the foundation for a modern facility designed to process 60,000 tons of industrial cottonseed and produce vegetable oil.
Against the backdrop of the comprehensive development of the agricultural sector, its material and technical base continues to be strengthened. Research institutes are conducting fundamental work in the fields of agriculture, livestock breeding, and seed production.
This year, a modern facility for research institutes of the Ministry of Agriculture – a joint laboratory complex – will be commissioned.
Effective measures are being taken to improve irrigation and drainage systems and enhance the melioration of irrigated lands. All of this work is being carried out using the latest technologies.
Turkmenistan maintains a constructive partnership with the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations.
Our country also places great importance on the careful preservation of the environment and ensuring ecological well-being. In this regard, comprehensive efforts are underway to transform the Fatherland into a blooming garden. Environmental well-being is maintained through annual nationwide greening campaigns.
Dear participants of the meeting!
This year, our grain growers delivered over 1.4 million tons of grain to the country’s granaries. Their labor victory was a wonderful gift for the 35th anniversary of our country’s independence. I wholeheartedly congratulate these high-yield farmers, who fulfilled their contractual obligations to the state, on this achievement!
At the same time, it is expected that 1 million 250 thousand tons of cotton will be produced this year.
The planned development objectives for the silkworm industry are also being successfully achieved: over 2,100 tons of cocoons have been produced this year.
Livestock and poultry farming are also developing, as evidenced by the regular increase in the number of cattle and small livestock, poultry and camels.
We will continue to develop agriculture on a large scale using science and high technology.
Dear friends!
Turkmens have always held horses in special esteem. Our “heavenly” horses embody the symbol of peace and are a highlight of national celebrations. In Turkmenistan, extensive work is underway to study the history of Akhal-Teke horses and preserve the purity of their breed.
In order to widely promote the Akhal-Teke horse and its art of horse breeding on the international stage, this year, declared “Independent Neutral Turkmenistan – the Homeland of Purposeful Heavenly Horses,” large-scale events were organized in the country and abroad.
The adoption of the Law of Turkmenistan on the State Protection of Akhal-Teke Horses, aimed at increasing their numbers and popularizing representatives of this elite breed worldwide, will significantly improve the measures we are taking in this area.
Dear compatriots!
The retail sector is one of the leading sectors of the national economy. The country ensures the availability of goods and stable prices. The quality of trade is also consistently improving. Effective measures are being taken to saturate markets with agricultural, food, and other domestically produced consumer goods.
Great importance is also attached to the creation of new enterprises for the production of high-quality products labeled “Made in Turkmenistan”.
A modern shopping center is under construction in Ashgabat. Furthermore, numerous retail and service facilities will open in the capital this year.
International exhibitions, conferences and business meetings held in our country and abroad contribute to strengthening trade partnerships.
In 2027, we will participate in the World Exhibition “EXPO 2027” in the Republic of Serbia, presenting the National Exposition.
Dear friends!
We are also undertaking large-scale modernization of the textile industry. By producing high-quality textile products, we are expanding our export capacity to meet international standards.
Particular attention is being paid to the development of the renowned art of carpet weaving of the Turkmen people. Necessary measures are being taken to enrich this magnificent art and popularize it throughout the world.
Dear participants of the meeting!
The role of the private sector is steadily increasing in our country, a result of ongoing programmatic activities. Members of the Union of Industrialists and Entrepreneurs make a significant contribution to Turkmenistan’s prosperity.
We will continue to develop small, medium and large businesses.
Dear friends!
Large-scale activities are being implemented in the transport and communications sector. Turkmenistan’s powerful transport and logistics system opens up enormous economic opportunities for both our country and the countries of the region.
Great importance is attached to a significant increase in the capacity of the transport system, as well as to the expansion of transit and international freight transport.
Best international practices in implementing artificial intelligence technologies are being studied, and work is underway to expand the range of digital services. By effectively leveraging the potential of the Turkmenbashi International Seaport, the national merchant fleet is being consistently modernized. This year, the bulk carrier “Gadamly,” built at the Balkan shipyard, was given permission to embark on its maiden international voyage.
We will continue to build industrial and social facilities for the transport and communications complex and strengthen its material and technical base.
Dear friends!
Our country is implementing a program to modernize the national education system. In this regard, every opportunity is being created for the younger generation.
In this regard, I would like to particularly highlight the importance of the general lesson conducted by Hero Arkadag at the Ruhyýet Palace in Arkadag, attended by representatives of the younger generation on the occasion of Knowledge and Student Day. The esteemed Arkadag shared valuable thoughts and advice, and also made a number of suggestions.
I am convinced that the adoption of the State Program in the Field of State Youth Policy in Turkmenistan for the Period up to 2031 will be of great importance in the implementation of the relevant strategy.
Dear compatriots!
This year, on the occasion of Knowledge and Student Day, a new, modern building complex for the Turkmen State Institute of Architecture and Civil Engineering was officially opened in the capital, Ashgabat, and the Seyitnazar Seydi Turkmen State Pedagogical Institute was officially opened in Turkmenabat. Furthermore, modern secondary schools and kindergartens opened their doors to young people. The Gineshli Children and Youth Center, currently under construction, will become a model institution where the happy younger generation can hone their abilities and skills and discover their talents.
We will continue to build numerous modern educational institutions in our country. This dynamic demonstrates the success of our ongoing efforts in the field of education.
Dear participants of the meeting!
In the scientific field, work is also underway to improve the effectiveness of research and development of new technologies. Our government is focusing on improving the implementation of innovative technologies.
We will continue our activities in this area.
Dear compatriots!
Our country places great importance on developing the national healthcare system and medical industry based on the Saglyk State Program, developed with the direct participation of Hero Arkadag. This sector is consistently improving through the introduction of new technologies and by improving the accessibility and quality of medical services.
In collaboration with world-renowned medical centers, large-scale measures are being implemented to train specialists and improve their qualifications.
This year, we will open the International Pediatrics Center, the International Scientific and Clinical Oncology Center, and the Dental Center in Ashgabat. In the Baharden district of the Ahal province, we will also open a new additional treatment building for the Archman Sanatorium. The ceremonies will coincide with Healthcare and Medical Industry Workers’ Day.
Construction is currently underway on the Ashgabat City Multidisciplinary Hospital, the Health Center in the Byuzmeyin district of the capital, the inter-district multidisciplinary hospital in the city of Tejen in the Ahal province, and the Maternal and Child Health Center in the city of Dashoguz.
In the near future, we will lay the foundations for 50 rural health centers and rural health houses in the provinces.
In addition, we plan to build international-level oncology centers in the Mary, Balkan, and Lebap provinces, a tuberculosis hospital in the Dashoguz province, a regional multidisciplinary hospital in the city of Mary, as well as inter-etrap multidisciplinary hospitals in the Kizylarvat, Kunyaurgench, Kerki, and Yolotan districts.
Overall, the work being carried out demonstrates the widespread introduction of advanced experience in the field of disease prevention, diagnosis and treatment into the national healthcare system.
Protecting the health of the people and ensuring the well-being of the country is our main goal.
Dear friends!
In our country, effective work is being carried out to establish the principles of a healthy lifestyle and further develop the mass sports movement.
Great importance is attached to the education of a physically strong generation, ensuring the spiritual, moral and social development of youth.
I firmly believe that in the future, our athletes will continue to raise the profile of our country in international competitions, demonstrating excellent examples of patriotism and skill.
Dear compatriots!
Large-scale activities to develop the cultural sphere also continue.
Currently, in order to create favorable conditions for citizens to fully enjoy their leisure time, construction is underway on a multifunctional cultural center with a capacity of 4,000 seats in Ashgabat.
Turkmenistan regularly hosts various creative events, Days of Foreign Culture, international song and music and theatre festivals, as well as scientific conferences and forums dedicated to the national literary heritage.
This year, Culture Week took place in the Balkan province, and next year we will hold it in the Dashoguz province.
In addition, constructive cooperation is maintained with the specialized agency of the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization.
Overall, the measures being taken contribute to the successful advancement of our cultural diplomacy on the global stage and the further strengthening of bridges of friendship and peace with all nations.
Dear participants of the meeting!
Turkmenistan maintains friendly relations with countries and international organizations, and supports the international community’s efforts to ensure global peace, security, and sustainable development. This is one of the key pillars of our foreign policy.
The adoption of the Resolution “The Role and Significance of the Policy of Neutrality in Maintaining and Strengthening International Peace, Security, and Sustainable Development” at the United Nations General Assembly this year was a historically significant event, demonstrating the triumph of our policy of neutrality. Furthermore, the adoption of the Resolution “Year of International Law, 2028,” initiated by Turkmenistan, once again clearly demonstrated the steady growth of our state’s authority in the international arena.
This October, the Avaza National Tourist Zone will host a Summit of Heads of State and other international events. The country will host a Consultative Meeting of the Heads of State of Central Asia and the Republic of Azerbaijan, as well as a regular meeting of the Council of Heads of State of the Commonwealth of Independent States.
All of this will serve as clear evidence of the success of Turkmenistan’s efforts to ensure global peace and strengthen trust between states.
Dear participants of the meeting!
As you know, our country’s neutral foreign policy is gaining increasing authority and respect, enjoying widespread support worldwide. During a general lesson with representatives of the younger generation, Hero-Arkadag also emphasized the importance of the Department of Peace and Neutrality opened at the Institute of International Relations, announcing an initiative to hold consultations on the establishment of an Academic Center for Peace, Neutrality, and Preventive Diplomacy within the university.
In this regard, the establishment of the University of Peace and Neutrality in cooperation with the United Nations will be an important step in the implementation of scientific research and educational activities in this area.
Dear friends!
Neutrality is the greatest value of the Turkmen people. I would like to note that, thanks to its neutral status, Turkmenistan has made a significant contribution to the peaceful resolution of a number of international and regional issues. In this regard, at the current meeting of the Halk Maslahaty of Turkmenistan, I am putting forward an initiative to adopt a national concept, “International Law and the Neutrality of Turkmenistan.” I am confident that this document will further strengthen Turkmenistan’s position in the international arena as a state enjoying neutral status.
Dear friends!
In the era of the Revival of a powerful state, the work of the Mejlis is significantly improving. National legislation is being consistently modernized in line with international law. The Mejlis is effectively working to protect the legitimate interests of citizens and develop economic sectors. Therefore, it is necessary to strengthen the legal foundations of the ongoing large-scale efforts to advance the country’s socioeconomic development and further improve the standard of living of our people. Furthermore, I consider the adoption of new legislation and the ongoing improvement of laws to be one of the most important tasks of our time.
Dear participants of the meeting!
Turkmenistan’s modern achievements awaken in us a true sense of patriotism and national pride. It is the duty of each of us to uphold the authority of our independent, neutral Fatherland—Turkmenistan—and to love our Motherland and our people and be proud of them. Therefore, we must work selflessly for our independence and permanent neutrality, our happy and prosperous life. In unity and harmony, we must realize the new tasks and lofty goals we have set.
Dear compatriots!
In a few days, we will celebrate Turkmenistan’s Independence Day in a grand manner. In this regard, a corresponding decree will be signed during a session of the Halk Maslahaty (People’s Council) to solemnly commemorate the glorious 35th anniversary of our sacred independence. According to the decree, the country will celebrate Independence Day for three days: September 27, 28, and 29.
Dear compatriots!
Esteemed friends!
Once again, I wholeheartedly congratulate you and your people on the 35th anniversary of our beloved Fatherland’s independence! I wish you all good health, a prosperous and happy life, and prosperity for our independent, neutral Motherland!
May the authority of our independent state on the world stage continue to grow!
Long live independent, permanently neutral Turkmenistan! ///nCa, 24 September 2026