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Chinese New Year
ASHGABAT | ORIENT. In his New Year's address, President Serdar Berdimuhamedov congratulated his compatriots and summarized the year, which proved to be a golden one for the national economy and diplomacy. We analyzed the head of state's speech and identified 7 key areas that Turkmenistan will focus on in 2026.
The coming year, 2026, is the Year of the Horse according to the Eastern calendar. The President emphasized that the motto "Independent, Neutral Turkmenistan – Homeland of the Purposeful Winged Steeds" was not chosen by chance. The Akhal-Teke horse symbolizes the agility with which the country should race to new heights. "May the New Year, with the speed of a steed, carry everyone to their intended goals" - this is the main emotional message of the year.
Last year was a time of historic construction projects. The President highlighted strategic projects, including the launch of the Serhetabat-Herat section (a key link in the TAPI gas pipeline), the construction of a bridge across the Garabogaz Gulf and a highway to the Kazakh border, and a new oil loading terminal at the Turkmenbashi Oil Refinery Complex. Turkmenistan is consolidating its status as a global energy and transport hub.
Industrialization has spread to all regions: the Bäherden plant, new workshops in the capital, and water treatment facilities. Plans for the year: Particular attention is being paid to the Lebap and Balkan velayats, where new mineral fertilizer and urea production facilities are being built. The economy is diversifying at a record pace.
The motto "A State for the People" is taking shape. Modern villages opened in 2025: Döwletli Mekan, Bagtly Zamana, and the village of Bitaraplyk. Priority 2026: Continued construction of the second phase of the town of Arkadag and the Güneşli Children and Youth Center in Ashgabat, as well as medical facilities in various regions.
The country's farmers have delivered over 1.4 million tons of grain. Message: Economic incentives for rural workers and strengthening the technical infrastructure of the agro-industrial complex remain a priority of state policy.
Turkmenistan is conquering global stages: the Grand Prix of the Galkynyş Equestrian Group in Monte Carlo, victories by the Arkadag FC. UNESCO has recognized the art of breeding the Alabai dog and included Ashgabat in the network of learning cities. In 2026, the Balkan region will be the main venue for Culture Week.
The UN General Assembly adopted a number of key resolutions on Turkmenistan's initiative (on neutrality, sustainable transport, and energy). A key milestone: the "Avaza Political Declaration" was the outcome of the largest conference of landlocked countries. Turkmenistan is a recognized peacekeeping center.
SUMMARY: 2026 will be the year of preparation for the 35th anniversary of independence. It will be a year of work, large-scale housewarmings, and the realization of bright hopes, the President declared.