Turkmenistan is celebrating its 35th anniversary of independence in 2026, focusing on national development, international diplomacy, and regional connectivity. The year is being celebrated under the national theme, “Independent, Permanently Neutral Turkmenistan, Homeland of Purposeful Heavenly Horses,” which emphasizes the country's cultural heritage and its policy of permanent neutrality.
During a press briefing at the Embassy of Turkmenistan in Islamabad, Ambassador of Turkmenistan to Pakistan and Dean of the Diplomatic Corps, H.E. Atadjan Movlamov, described 2026 as a landmark year. He stated that the country has strengthened international partnerships through high-level diplomatic engagements and regional initiatives.
Significant cultural and legislative milestones were noted during the year. From September 4 to 6, the First World Championship of Equestrian Sports and Beauty among Ahal-Teke Horses was held in the Netherlands. On September 23, the Halk Maslahaty (People’s Council) met in Ashgabat to approve several strategic documents, including the National Strategy for Industrial Development for 2030–2045, the national concept on International Law and Neutrality, and the State Programme on Youth Policy up to 2031.
Economic and diplomatic activity intensified in October. The Turkmenistan Investment Forum 2026 took place in Ashgabat on October 1 and 2, hosting over 800 delegates from more than 40 countries. Additionally, several meetings were held in the National Tourist Zone of Avaza, including a high-level Central Asian meeting on water resources and the Eighth Consultative Meeting of the Heads of State of Central Asian Countries and Azerbaijan on October 8. On October 9, the First Caspian Environmental Summit was held in Avaza.
Energy cooperation remained a primary focus. The 31st International Conference and Exhibition Oil and Gas of Turkmenistan 2026 attracted over 1,500 delegates from 75 countries. Discussions included the Galkynysh gas field, energy export routes, and the Turkmenistan–Afghanistan–Pakistan–India (TAPI) gas pipeline. The conference resulted in five bilateral agreements with partners from China, Malaysia, Kazakhstan, and Uzbekistan. From November 3 to 5, the CIET 2026 International Conference and Exhibition in Ashgabat focused on construction, industrial modernization, and smart technologies.
