Tariq Saeedi Half a millennium before Christopher Columbus ever set sail, a scientist sitting in the rugged hills of Central and South Asia deduced that two massive, unknown continents must lie hidden across the ocean. He had never seen the Atlantic, nor possessed a telescope, yet through pure trigonometric precision and physical logic, he predicted the existence of the … [Read more...]
From Ancient Games to Samsung: Ashgabat Continues Its Journey into Korean Culture
Tamir Shakirov On 2 November, the Arkaç Shopping Center in Ashgabat hosted a vibrant and engaging event under the motto "Feel Korea in Arkaç!". The celebration took place as part of the Korean Culture Week 2026, timed to coincide with the landmark first "Republic of Korea – Central Asia" Summit. On this day, the Arkaç Shopping Center turned into a mini-portal to Seoul. … [Read more...]
Discovering Turkmen Avant-Garde: Polish Art Experts Visit Turkmenistan
The Delegation of the European Union to Turkmenistan, together with the Ministry of Culture of Turkmenistan, supported a cultural exchange visit by representatives of the Polish art community. Held from 29 to 31 October, the visit provided an opportunity to discover Turkmenistan’s rich artistic heritage, exchange knowledge and ideas, and explore opportunities for future … [Read more...]
Tradition and Lighting Technology: Korean Show Design Group Performs in Ashgabat
Anastasia Zhirnova A performance by the South Korean show ensemble Show Design Group (SDG) took place at the Magtymguly National Music and Drama Theatre in Ashgabat as part of Korean Culture Week, held on 1–2 November 2026. The event opened with a welcoming address by the Ambassador of the Republic of Korea to Turkmenistan, Lee Won Jae, who expressed his gratitude to … [Read more...]
Sultan Raev: The Turkic World Must Preserve Its Cultural Heritage in the Digital Age
Elvira Kadyrova Sultan Raev, Secretary General of the International Organization of Turkic Culture (TURKSOY), called on the countries of the Turkic world to actively develop joint digital archives, language technologies, and cultural heritage platforms to ensure a full-fledged representation of their shared history and culture in the future information space. He made … [Read more...]
Chinese Exhibition: Beautiful China – Beauty of Xinjiang
An exhibition of the Chinese paintings and works of arts opened in Ashgabat on 29 October 2026. The theme of the exhibition is ‘Beauty of China – Beauty of Xinjiang.’ Speech by the Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the People's Republic of China to Turkmenistan, Ji Shumin, at the Opening of the Fine Arts and Photography Exhibition “Beautiful China — Beauty of … [Read more...]
The OTS Paradigm — Part 6: The Strategic Linchpin: Why Language Remains the Core Anchor
Tariq Saeedi As the Organization of Turkic States (OTS) prepares for its landmark 13th Summit in Ankara, debate surrounding its future expansion naturally surfaces. While the temptation exists for any regional block to widen its tent to maximize raw geographic reach, the core durability of the OTS rests on an irreplaceable strategic asset: linguistic … [Read more...]
Brave Akgaya and the Triumph of the National Breed: How Turkmenistan Celebrated the Day of the Turkmen Alabai
Turkmenistan celebrated the Day of the Turkmen Alabai, which traditionally falls on the last Sunday of October—this year landing on the 25th. The Ashgabat Equestrian Complex became the epicenter of the festive events, hosting the key highlights of a large-scale exhibition and celebrations dedicated to man’s faithful companions. The main culminating moment of the holiday was … [Read more...]
Breakfast at Ambassador Şener Cebeci’s Residence Highlights Growing Tourism from Turkmenistan and Closer Media Ties
Elvira Kadyrova On 24 October 2026, Ambassador of the Republic of Türkiye to Turkmenistan Şener Cebeci hosted a breakfast for representatives of Turkmenistan’s public and private media at his official residence in Ashgabat. The meetin provided an opportunity to review joint initiatives in tourism and discuss new avenues for cooperation between the Turkish side and Turkmen … [Read more...]
A presentation of the book by the President of Turkmenistan in Azerbaijani was held at the Institute of International Relations of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Turkmenistan
On October 21, 2026, the Institute of International Relations of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Turkmenistan hosted a presentation of the book by the President of Turkmenistan Serdar Berdimuhamedov, “Turkmenistan’s Neutrality – a Bright Path of Peace and Trust,” published in the Azerbaijani language. The event was attended by leaders and representatives of the Ministry … [Read more...]
Art for Environmental Advocacy: “MAMA. Mother Nature” International Exhibition starts in Ashgabat
The international art exhibition MAMA “Mother Nature” has opened at the State Academy of Arts of Turkmenistan in Ashgabat. The opening ceremony was attended by Oguljahan Atabayeva, Vice President of the Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov Charitable Foundation for Assistance to Children in Need of Care; Leyla Aliyeva, Vice President of the Heydar Aliyev Foundation; and Saida … [Read more...]
Turkmenistan participates in UNESCO seminar in Jakarta
On October 13, 2026, the opening of the International Training Seminar of the UNESCO Memory of the World Programme on the theme: “Expanding the Possibilities of Documentary Diversity” took place in the capital of Indonesia, Jakarta. The main goal of the seminar is to strengthen international cooperation and build the human and technical capacity of countries in the … [Read more...]
A performance dedicated to the memory of the victims of the Ashgabat earthquake
Tamara Glazunova, Pictures by Hasan Magadov On the eve of a sad date in the history of the Turkmen people – the 78th anniversary of the Ashgabat earthquake – a performance of the play “Halk hakуdasy” was held at the Alp Arslan National Drama Theater. As a reminder, this production won the Grand Prix, the highest award, at the recently held "Garaşsyzlyk ganatym, … [Read more...]
Ashgabat to host European Culture Days
The Delegation of the European Union to Turkmenistan has announced the upcoming European Culture Days in Turkmenistan, organised in cooperation with the Ministry of Culture of Turkmenistan in November 2026. As part of the Culture Days, the Delegation will present a special programme featuring Italian jazz singer and performer Ms. Simona De Rosa. Date: 20 November … [Read more...]
First TIF 2026 Participants Arrive in Ashgabat: The Forum Begins with a Journey into Turkmenistan’s History
The first international participants of the Turkmenistan Investment Forum 2026 (TIF 2026) have already arrived in Ashgabat. With only a few hours to go before the opening of the business programme, their introduction to Turkmenistan begins with a rich cultural programme. The first stop will be Old Nisa, an ancient Parthian fortress and one of Turkmenistan’s most important … [Read more...]
Gaziantep Welcomes Turkmen Journalists: The Starting Point of the Journey to TEKNOFEST 2026
Elvira Kadyrova, Gaziantep, Türkiye A group of Turkmen journalists, including a representative of News Central Asia, arrived in the Turkish city of Gaziantep on 28 September. The purpose of the press tour is to attend the opening of TEKNOFEST 2026, the largest aviation, aerospace and technology festival, which will take place from 30 September to 4 October at GAP Airport in … [Read more...]
Sweet Romania: Ashgabat hosts workshop on traditional Romanian desserts
Elvira Kadyrova, Tamir Shakirov A culinary workshop dedicated to traditional Romanian pastries and desserts was held at the Ynamly Kepil coworking centre in Ashgabat. The event was organised by the youth initiative Creative Corner Turkmenistan, Astra Consulting and La Crema café, with the support of the Embassy of Romania in Turkmenistan. The event brought together young … [Read more...]
National Leader of Turkmenistan holds a general lesson for youth
On 2 September, in honor of the start of the new academic year, the National Leader of the Turkmen people, Chairman of the Halk Maslahaty of Turkmenistan Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov, held a traditional general lesson for university and school students at the Ruhyet Palace in Arkadag City. In his address, the National Leader of the Turkmen people provided guidance to the … [Read more...]
Seoul Hosts Cultural Promo Event Ahead of First Korea-Central Asia Summit 2026
The Preparatory Office for the First Korea-Central Asia Summit 2026 of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs held an offline Promotional Event for the First Korea-Central Asia Summit 2026 at Cheonggye Plaza in Jung-gu, Seoul, on Wednesday, 26 August 2026. According to the foreign ministry of Korea, This offline promotional event was organized to wish for a successful hosting of … [Read more...]
Archaeological Treasures of Turkmenistan: What Ancient Objects Reveal About the Past
An exhibition in Ashgabat offers a glimpse into the history of Turkmenistan through small objects of everyday life — pottery, clay figurines, coins, lamps, metalwork and fragments of architectural decoration. The State Museum of the State Cultural Center of Turkmenistan is presenting, for the first time, archaeological finds transferred by the Institute of History and … [Read more...]
Turkmenistan’s Awaza prepares for the “Tatar Kyzy” contest finale
As part of his working visit to Turkmenistan, Deputy Prime Minister of the Republic of Tatarstan and Chairman of the National Council of the World Congress of Tatars, Vasil Shaykhraziev, visited the Awaza National Tourist Zone. There, he inspected potential venues for hosting the finale of the "Tatar Kyzy" International Contest, according to the World Congress of … [Read more...]
Tatarstan Delegation Meets with Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Culture of Turkmenistan in Ashgabat
As part of a working visit of the Tatarstan delegation to Turkmenistan, Deputy Prime Minister of Tatarstan and Chairman of the National Council of the World Congress of Tatars Vasil Shaykhraziev met with Deputy Prime Minister of Turkmenistan for Culture Bahar Seyidova and Minister of Culture of Turkmenistan Gurbanmyrat Myradaliyev. The main topic of the talks was the … [Read more...]
Foreign Ministry of Turkmenistan Hosts Deputy Prime Minister of Tatarstan
A working meeting took place today at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Turkmenistan between Deputy Prime Minister of the Republic of Tatarstan and Chairman of the National Council of the World Congress of Tatars, Vasil Shaykhraziev, and Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs of Turkmenistan, Myakhri Byashimova. According to the World Congress of Tatars, discussions centered on … [Read more...]
Silk Road Meets ‘Arirang’: Gwangju Hosts Cultural Festival Ahead of Landmark Central Asia–Korea Summit
In a prelude to the upcoming historical "Central Asia–Republic of Korea" Summit scheduled for September 2026, the city of Gwangju hosted a cross-cultural music event titled “Cultural Journey along the Great Silk Road with the Song 'Arirang'.” Organized as part of the Republic of Korea’s International Friendship Days, the festival brought together traditional music masters … [Read more...]
Turkmenistan and United States Mark Independence Anniversaries with Diplomatic and Cultural Events in Washington
The Embassy of Turkmenistan in the United States, in partnership with the Permanent Mission of Turkmenistan to the United Nations, held a series of diplomatic and cultural events in the Washington, D.C. metropolitan area on July 17–18, celebrating the 35th anniversary of Turkmenistan's independence alongside the 250th anniversary of U.S. independence. The centerpiece of the … [Read more...]
Ashgabat Honors the Memory of Belarusian Literary Classic Yanka Kupala
A ceremony dedicated to the birthday of the outstanding Belarusian poet, playwright, and publicist Yanka Kupala (1882–1942) was held in the Turkmen capital. On 7 July, representatives of the diplomatic corps laid flowers at the monument to the classic writer, located on the territory of the Magtymguly Fragi Memorial Complex. The Ambassador Extraordinary and … [Read more...]
Euronews launches Kazakh language broadcasting
Euronews is launching a new channel broadcasting its global content in the Kazakh language. It will also be the first Central Asian language to be added to the media's worldwide broadcasting network. The channel will feature Euronews' international news coverage, produced by the broadcaster's multinational editorial team, translated into Kazakh. The content will be available … [Read more...]
A confident step toward a green future: Eco-festival held in the capital
The "Together for a Green Future!" eco-festival, held on July 4th at the "Ashgabat" Shopping and Entertainment Center, proved to be more than just a platform for environmental protection; it served as a unique space where ecological culture merged with science and practical experience. Organized by the "Young Naturalist" Public Organization at the "Bilelik Hub" creative center, … [Read more...]
Minister of Foreign Affairs of Kazakhstan Visits Turkmenistan
The Minister of Foreign Affairs of Kazakhstan, Ermek Kosherbaev, is on an official visit to Turkmenistan from 30 June to 1 July 2026. During the visit, a wide range of issues regarding Kazakh-Turkmen cooperation is scheduled for discussion. This includes advancing political dialogue, strengthening trade, economic, and investment ties, expanding cultural and humanitarian … [Read more...]
In foreigners’ eyes: What galvanizes young people in a changing China
Chen Ziqi, a reporter from CGTN Farmers and CPC members work side by side to plough the fields and plant crops in Gaojiu Village in Guizhou on October 8, 2023. [Photo: VCG] Across the world, the strength of a governing party is often measured through numbers: approval ratings, economic indicators, or public surveys. In China, another indicator is remarkable: the … [Read more...]
Magtymguly Fragi’s Legacy Celebrated at Cultural Events in Tehran
On 17 June 2026, the Cultural Institute of the Economic Cooperation Organization (ECO) hosted a conference dedicated to the life and work of Magtymguly Fragi, titled "The Voice of Unity and Cultural Revival in the Economic Cooperation Organization Region." The conference was attended by ambassadors and diplomats of foreign states in Tehran, researchers of Magtymguly's work, … [Read more...]
A handmade carpet based on the fairy tales of Alexander Pushkin has been woven in Turkmenistan
The Turkmen carpet company "El Darak," in partnership with the National Museum of Turkmen Carpets, created a unique hand-woven piece based on the fairy tales of Alexander Pushkin. The project was realized as a sign of friendship between Turkmenistan and Russia. On a carpet measuring 2 by 1.5 meters, the craftsmen depicted Lukomorye, the Golden Cockerel, characters from The … [Read more...]
Turkmenistan and U.S. Experts Advance Restoration of Ancient Merv Buddha Artifact
International experts from the J. Paul Getty Museum in Los Angeles have arrived in Turkmenistan to continue restoration work on a rare fifth-century Buddha sculpture discovered at the ancient city of Merv. The project, supported by the U.S. Ambassador’s Fund for Cultural Preservation, has been underway for several years at the State Museum of the State Cultural Center of … [Read more...]
Ashgabat Hosts Large-Scale Celebrations for Turkmen Carpet Day
Turkmenistan has held major celebrations to mark Turkmen Carpet Day, traditionally observed nationwide on the last Sunday of May (falling on 31 May this year). Ashgabat hosted a massive specialized exhibition and the 26th meeting of the World Association of Turkmen Carpet Connoisseurs, the State News Agency of Turkmenistan (TDH) reports. The National Museum of Turkmen Carpet … [Read more...]
Bani Adam: Saadi Shirazi’s Eternal Call for the Unity of Humankind
Tariq Saeedi There is a particular kind of poem that refuses to stay in its own century. It gets copied, memorized, quoted at funerals and summits and protests, stitched into carpets and set to music, until it no longer feels like literature — it feels like conscience. Bani Adam, written by the Persian poet and sage Saadi Shirazi in the thirteenth century, is one of those … [Read more...]
Turkmenistan Celebrates Kurban Bayramy
On 27–29 May 2026, Turkmenistan celebrates Kurban Bayramy (Eid al-Adha) — the main Islamic festival of sacrifice, which is observed on the 10th day of the month of Dhu al-Hijjah. On the occasion of the festive date, President of Turkmenistan Serdar Berdimuhamedov congratulated the people of the country. The text of the congratulatory message was published by the state print … [Read more...]
Embassy of Turkmenistan in Ukraine Presented the Art of Turkmen Carpet-Weaving and Embroidery in Celebration of Turkmen Carpet Day
On 26 May 2026, the Embassy of Turkmenistan in Ukraine hosted a ceremonial cultural event entitled “The Art of Carpet-Weaving and Embroidery is a Symbol of the Diligence and Mastery of Turkmen Women”, dedicated to Turkmen Carpet Day — one of the significant professional holidays of Turkmenistan, embodying the richness of spiritual heritage, continuity of generations, and the … [Read more...]
The Taste of Tradition: Ambassador Ahmet Demirok Hosts Gala Event in Ashgabat on the Occasion of Turkish Cuisine Week
Elvira Kadyrova On the evening of 21 May 2026, the Ambassador of Türkiye in Turkmenistan Ahmet Demirok hosted an event to mark the launch of Turkish Cuisine Week in Ashgabat. This annual global campaign, designed to introduce the world to the gastronomic treasures of Anatolia, brought together diplomats, cultural figures, and distinguished guests. The Minister of Culture of … [Read more...]
Turkmenistan Becomes New ICESCO Observer: Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov Presents Key Initiatives in Kazan
On 14 May 2026, during his visit to Kazan, Tatarstan, the National Leader of the Turkmen people and Chairman of the Halk Maslahaty of Turkmenistan, Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov, attended the Meeting of Ministers of Culture of the member states of the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) as a guest of honor. Kazan: A Hub of the Islamic World The Second Meeting of … [Read more...]
Uutai: The Outer Edge of Turkic Music
Tariq Saeedi In the frozen expanses of the Sakha Republic in northeastern Siberia, where winter temperatures plunge to minus 50 degrees Celsius and the land stretches endlessly beneath the aurora borealis, a singular voice has emerged that bridges millennia of tradition with contemporary world music. © The Irish Sun Olena Podluzhnaya, performing under the stage name … [Read more...]
The EU continuesthe tradition of the Annual Christmas Book Fair in Ashgabat
On 20 December, the Delegation of the European Union to Turkmenistan hosted its annual open-air Christmas Book Fair, which for the third year in a row delighted residents and guests of Ashgabat. The event took place in the front yard of the Delegation and brought together the local community to celebrate books, culture, sustainability, and the festive spirit. The main … [Read more...]
Turkmenistan opens a new era of tourism: the Turkmen Travel 2026 International Forum will bring together industry leaders
Ashgabat — The Ministry of Culture of Turkmenistan, the Union of Industrialists and Entrepreneurs of Turkmenistan and the Chamber of Commerce and Industry of Turkmenistan, in cooperation with the Talwas Yoly Closed Joint Stock Company and the Oguz Forum&Expo divisions, announce the holding of the international tourism forum and exhibition Turkmen Travel 2026. The event … [Read more...]
UNESCO Includes the Art of Breeding the Turkmen Alabay in the List of Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity
On 11 December 2025, during the 20th session of the UNESCO Intergovernmental Committee for the Safeguarding of the Intangible Cultural Heritage, held in New Delhi (India), a unanimous decision was made to include Turkmenistan's nomination "The Art of Breeding the Turkmen Alabay" in the Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity. The decision was … [Read more...]
A ritual uniting continents: The celebration of the World Turkish Coffee Day at the residence of Ambassador Ahmet Demirok
Elvira Kadyrova On 5 December 2025 in Ashgabat, at the residence of the Ambassador of Türkiye Ahmet Demirok, an event took place to mark World Turkish Coffee Day. Representatives from diplomatic circles, public and cultural figures, and mass media participated in the celebration. Welcoming the guests, Ambassador Ahmet Demirok told to the attendees about the significance … [Read more...]
Ashgabat: Children’s Concert “Neutrality – Melodies of Eternal Happiness” Wins Hearts
On 2 December, the Magtymguly National Music and Drama Theatre in Ashgabat hosted a vibrant children’s concert titled “Neutrality – Melodies of Eternal Happiness”, dedicated to the 30th anniversary of Turkmenistan’s permanent neutrality. The hall was packed: proud parents, teachers, officials and music lovers all came to cheer on the country’s young talents. The stage turned … [Read more...]
Azerbaijani stage works to be presented in Turkmenistan during the Foreign Classics week
Azerbaijani stage works will be shown in theatres across Turkmenistan during the week of the Foreign Classical Performances dedicated to peace and friendly relations between the peoples of the world, the Embassy of Azerbaijan to Turkmenistan reports. Pieces by the eminent Azerbaijani composer Uzeyir Hajibeyli will also be presented as part of the week-long cultural … [Read more...]
ECO Cultural Institute Dedicates Special Journal Edition to Turkmenistan’s 30 Years of Permanent Neutrality and the International Year of Peace and Trust
In honor of the International Year of Peace and Trust (2025) and the 30th anniversary of Turkmenistan’s permanent Neutrality, the Cultural Institute of the Economic Cooperation Organization, with the support of the Embassy of Turkmenistan in the Islamic Republic of Iran, has published a special edition of its journal dedicated to Turkmenistan. This edition presents a concise … [Read more...]
Ashgabat celebrates European Culture and Partnership
Ashgabat, 21 November 2025 - The Delegation of the European Union to Turkmenistan, the Embassy of France in Turkmenistan and the Ministry of Culture of Turkmenistan are proud to celebrate the European Culture Days in Turkmenistan, continuing a long-standing tradition that brings European art and culture to Turkmen audiences every autumn. The festivities began on 18 November … [Read more...]
Turkmenistan Delegation Visits Leading Cultural and Scientific Centers in Paris
As part of an official visit to the French Republic, a Turkmen delegation on 17–18 November toured two landmark institutions in the French capital: the Musée de l’Homme and the Institut du monde arabe. On 17 November, the delegation visited the Musée de l’Homme. The guests were accompanied by renowned French archaeologist Julio Bendezú-Sarmiento, head of the Franco-Turkmen … [Read more...]
International Congress in Tashkent Highlights Central Asia’s Shared Spiritual Heritage and Path to Regional Unity
The International Congress "Central Asia: Common Spiritual and Educational Heritage – Common Future" opened in the Uzbek capital, bringing together cultural leaders from across the region at the Center for Islamic Civilization. The forum underscores the growing emphasis on cultural ties as Central Asia enters what President Shavkat Mirziyoyev has called "a new, historically … [Read more...]