On Wednesday, 4 Feb 2026, the National Leader of the Turkmen people and Chairman of the Halk Maslahaty of Turkmenistan, Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov, paid a working visit to Arkadag. During the visit, he reviewed the activities of the Aba Annayev International Academy of Horse Breeding and the Gorogly State Equestrian Circus.
The visit started the “At-myrat” Training Center under the Academy. The center is dedicated to cultivating a new generation of equestrian specialists, providing instruction in horseback riding, national equestrian games, and equestrian sports, alongside academic subjects such as English, Russian, mathematics, chemistry, and computer literacy.
During his meeting with the students, the National Leader announced a grant of 1.5 million manats from the Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov Charitable Foundation. The funds are designated to strengthen the center’s material and technical infrastructure and enhance its digital capabilities.
At the Gorogly State Equestrian Circus, the National Leader was welcomed by members of the “Galkynyş” National Equestrian Games Group.
Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov congratulated the group on their recent international award at the Monte-Carlo International Circus Festival, where “Galkynyş” received certificates for its outstanding contribution to circus arts. He noted that 2026 has been declared the year of “Turkmenistan — Homeland of Purposeful Winged Steeds,” featuring an extensive program of events both at the national level and abroad.
The National Leader expressed confidence that the group would continue to represent the nation with pride, raising the green Flag of the Motherland at upcoming international venues.
On behalf of President Serdar Berdimuhamedov, the National Leader extended official congratulations and announced the President’s decision to award the “Galkynyş” group a prize of 3 million manats.
In addition to the award presented to the group’s head, each member received expertly crafted horse saddles. Furthermore, Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov presented the group with a personal gift: an Akhal-Teke stallion named Garashsyz.
The visit concluded with a working meeting with P. Bayramdurdyev, Rector of the Academy, and B. Rejepov, Vice-President of the International Akhal-Teke Horse Breeding Association. Discussions focused on the strategic development of horse breeding, personnel training, and the international promotion of the “Galkynyş” group’s achievements.
The Rector reported on practical student training and professional development for faculty, noting that 2027 will mark the 20th anniversary of the “Galkynyş” group, founded in 2007.
The National Leader emphasized the vital importance of preserving equestrian traditions and ensuring generational continuity. He recommended the production of feature films documenting the development of horse breeding in Arkadag city and the rigorous training of new horse breeders, seyis (trainers), and riders. ///nCa, 5 February 2026