EVENTS | ORIENT. Preparations for the National Turkmen Horse Festival are taking on a special scope this year, as the 2026 motto is "Independent Neutral Turkmenistan – the Homeland of the Purposeful Winged Steeds." On Saturday, National Leader of the Turkmen People Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov visited the Akhal-Teke Equestrian Complex of the President of Turkmenistan to personally inspect the progress of the large-scale modernization of the facility.

The renovation begins at the approaches to the complex. The project includes a complete reconstruction of the highway. The Head of the Khalk Maslakhaty emphasized that granite blocks, sidewalks, and lighting must meet international standards.

Trees are being planted along the road, which will not only decorate the Kopetdag foothills but also create a special microclimate. Particular attention has been paid to the durability of the bridges over mudflow channels—the infrastructure is being built to last.

The renowned Turkish company GAP Inşaat is overseeing the complex's reconstruction. After reviewing the project's engineering and design solutions, the National Leader of the Turkmen people made adjustments to the interior and landscaping.

Horse sculptures and canvases will be installed inside the buildings, intended to harmonize with the overall style. The grounds will be equipped with modern monitors and panoramic windows, creating a unified architectural ensemble. Modern materials are being used in the finishing, according to a news broadcast by the Turkmen State Television and Radio Broadcasting Company.

Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov reiterated that the Akhal-Teke Complex is not just a sports facility, but a scientific and cultural center. Turkmenistan is the ancestral homeland of these purebred "winged" horses. Maintaining world-class infrastructure to preserve the purity of the breed is our urgent task, noted the Chairman of the Khalk Maslakhaty, and instructed the preparation of a special program for the Horse Festival, which will be submitted to the head of state for consideration.