Turkmenistan marks 35 years of independence with an eye on the future

Published on 08/10/2026 - 16:00 GMT+2

Turkmenistan has marked 35 years of independence with parades across Ashgabat, joined by international partners including the United Nations.

Permanent neutrality, recognised by the UN General Assembly in 1995, remains the cornerstone of its foreign policy and has shaped its economy, with growth above 6% and public debt below 2%. Gas is the backbone, led by the vast Galkynyş field, while ports, motorways and education are expanding.

Celebrations also honour the ancient Akhal-Teke horse breed, as the country pairs pride in its heritage with ambitions for the next 35 years.