High-Level International Conference was held in Arkadag city

On September 12, 2026, the high-level international conference “Independent, Neutral Turkmenistan – Homeland of Heavenly Horses: A Zone of Peace, Friendship, and Cooperation” was held at the “Ruhyýet” Palace of Arkadag city.

The members of the Government, leadership of ministries and departments, heads of diplomatic missions and international organizations accredited in Turkmenistan, as well as representatives of public organizations, political parties, elders, and youth participated to the event.

Before the conference started, the guests got acquainted with the exhibition that was set up in the Palace foyer. The exhibition featured works dedicated to the historical and modern achievements of Turkmen people, as well as the development of Turkmenistan. Valuable pieces of equestrian art and decorative applied arts left an unforgettable impression on the attendees.

Then the international conference has begun. Participants were particularly impressed by a new poem entitled “Pride of the Turkmen” written by the President of Turkmenistan, Serdar Berdimuhamedov that reflects his deep admiration for Akhal-Teke horses.

Next, the Hero of Turkmenistan Annajemal Nurmuhammedova delivered a speech. Noting the successful development of Turkmenistan’s international relations, she emphasized that everything necessary is carried out to demonstrate worthily the Turkmen art and culture on the global stage. The determined, progressive goals set by the Hero-Arkadag and the President of Turkmenistan are yielding significant success, fostering intercultural dialogue and promoting the achievements of the Motherland to a wide audience.

Then, the Hero of Turkmenistan, the teacher of the State Academy of Arts Saragt Babayev delivered a speech about the comprehensive educational process implemented at the Academy. 

As a sculptor, who has gained fame both within the country and abroad he noted that the Turkmen state attaches the great importance to the development of modern art. This support, like in other sectors, creates encouraging conditions for formation a new generation of master sculptors.

Next, the Hero of Turkmenistan and Executive Secretary of the National Commission of Turkmenistan for UNESCO Chinar Rustemova delivered the speech. She highlighted the successful implementation of large-scale initiatives led by the Head of State and the National Leader of the Turkmen people, Chairman of the Halk Maslahaty, Hero-Arkadag.

It was noted that national values created by ancestors and the hardworking people are gaining international recognition. The following has been entered in the World Heritage List of UNESCO: the epic “Görogly”; Turkmen national rite of singing and dancing “Kushtdepd”; the craft of making the dutar, playing it and the art of bakhshi, the Turkmen national art of carpet weaving; the Turkmen art of embroidery; sericulture and traditional silk production for weaving; the telling tradition of Molla Ependi; and the art of Akhal-Teke horse breeding along with horse-decorating traditions.

Then the Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland to Turkmenistan Stephen Conlon gave a speech. The Ambassador highly appraised the work being made in the historic homeland of the Akhal-Teke horses, as well as the conditions created for their care and breeding. It was noted that many countries across Europe, Asia, and the Americas attach great importance to the preservation of the Akhal-Teke breed.

This serves as evidence that Akhal-Teke horses hold a distinguished place on the global stage and are capable of achieving outstanding victories in sport events.

Then, the speech via videoconferencing by Audrey Martinez, a horse breeder from France and winner of the main prize at the World Championship for Akhal-Teke horses and the beauty contest held in Kronenberg (Kingdom of the Netherlands) was heard. She expressed her heartfelt gratitude to Hero-Arkadag and the President of Turkmenistan for the opportunities being created in the country for the development of horse breeding and equestrian sports.

Afterwards, Alena Grand, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the French Republic to Turkmenistan gave a speech. The diplomat noted that due to the great efforts of President Serdar Berdimuhamedov and Hero-Arkadag, modern equestrian sports complexes designed for hosting large-scale competitions have been established in the country. In addition, she emphasized that this work serves as clear proof of successful measures taken in the country to elevate equestrian sports to a new level.

The speech by the Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the French Republic to Turkmenistan was accompanied by the video showing the moment of presenting the award to the French horse breeder – winner of the main prize at the World Equestrian Championship and Akhal-Teke beauty contest in Kronenberg (Kingdom of the Netherlands) in the presence of Hero-Arkadag.

Then, the Special Representative of the Minister of Foreign Affairs of Ukraine for Central Asia and Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of Ukraine to the Republic of Kazakhstan Viktor Mayko took the floor.

The diplomat expressed his sincere gratitude to President Serdar Berdimuhamedov and Hero-Arkadag for the hospitality extended on Turkmen land and for the organization the event in a high level.

The guest emphasized that it was a great honor for him to participate in this international conference and give a speech. As it was noted, Akhal-Teke horses that serves as a bridge between different eras and generations today are a symbol of peaceful relations, a fact that fully underscores the high standing and prestige they enjoy on the international stage.

The international forum continued with a speech by Şener Cebeci, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Republic of Türkiye to Turkmenistan. The Ambassador emphasized that it was a great honor for him to share the pride of world-renowned Akhal-Teke horses.

The Ambassador noted that relations between the two fraternal countries are being consistently strengthened by regular and trust-based dialogue at the highest political level.

The diplomat proudly highlighted that Turkmenistan has established traditions that serve as a model for the entire world and accumulated comprehensive extensive experience in the breeding of Akhal-Teke horses.

Next, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Republic of Azerbaijan to Turkmenistan Gismat Gozalov gave a speech.

As it was noted, in recent years relations between Turkmenistan and the Republic of Azerbaijan have encompassed a wide range of areas. Particular attention is being paid to the development of cultural and humanitarian ties and the broad promotion of national horse-breeding traditions.

In monumental literary works that have great significance to Turkic-speaking peoples – such as “Kitabi Dädem Gorkut” and “Görogly” – the horse appears as the “jigit’s” (warrior’s) faithful companion, accompanying him on life’s journey and serving as his closest friend. This is a confirmation of high interest to the Akhal-Teke horses throughout centuries.

Next, the floor was given to the Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Republic of Uzbekistan to Turkmenistan Ravshanbek Alimov.

It was emphasized that the efforts undertaken in Turkmenistan to preserve cultural heritage deserve special recognition. The consistent work being carried out in this area has a positive impact on the health and physical development of the horses. This serves as a clear demonstration of the national horse-breeding school’s commitment to achieving great success and its long-term strategic vision.

Next, the lecturer of the Department of Equestrian Sports, Tourism, and National Equestrian Games at the Aba Annayev International Horse Breeding Academy Liliana Annayeva delivered a speech. She noted that the guidance by Hero-Arkadag aimed at introducing young people to national horse-breeding traditions and developing skills in horse care and husbandry through international cooperation serves as a source of inspiration for the youth.

At the same time, the performances by the “Galkynysh” National Equestrian Games Group were shown on the monitor. This served as yet another evidence of the comprehensive approach taken in organizing this high-level international forum.

During the conference which served as continuation of historically significant events in the year “Independent, Neutral Turkmenistan: Homeland of Purposeful Winged Horses”, a broad exchange of views took place regarding the initiatives and proposals that had been put forward.

Then, a festive concert dedicated to the successful holding of the World Equestrian Championship and the Akhal-Teke horse beauty contest at the Peelbergen Equestrian Centre in Kronenberg (Kingdom of the Netherlands) was held in the square in front of the “Arkadag” monument of the “smart” city.

The arrival of President Serdar Berdimuhamedov, accompanied by his family members, further enhanced the high level and significance of the grand event, which was held in this beautiful corner to honor the magnificent victories of Akhal-Teke horses. This served as vivid proof of strong traditions of intergenerational continuity in our country.

Commending the organization of the events, the Head of State noted the efforts made by the nation’s cultural and artistic figures to enrich the spiritual life of the Turkmen people and wished them continued success in advancing national art.

These events ensure the effectiveness of efforts in these fields and foster the development of noble traditions of our renowned horse breeders in a modern setting. At the state level, great importance is attached to refining the art of horse breeding and harmoniously blending national traditions with advanced practices – an approach that positively impacts the organization of such events.

The festive events concluded with a spectacular fireworks display that illuminated the evening city with brilliant lights, creating an unforgettable atmosphere and bringing joy to all. This significant achievements in the life of our people and country are celebrated on a large scale.

After congratulating the participants of the historic events and wishing everyone success, President Serdar Berdimuhamedov departed the venue.