In the era of the Revival of the new epoch of the powerful state, Turkmenistan continues to confidently follow the path toward achieving lofty goals. Turkmenistan’s status as a center of peacekeeping and a responsible partner has been established thanks to the successful implementation, under the leadership of President Serdar Berdimuhamedov, of the policy initiated by the National Leader of the Turkmen people, Hero-Arkadag, aimed at ensuring the well-being of citizens and increasing the country’s international prestige.
The tradition of assigning a motto to each year highlights the priorities of state and societal development. Taking into account the role of Ahal-Teke horses in national history, the objectives of educating the younger generation in the spirit of respect for the heritage of their ancestors, as well as in honor of the upcoming 35th anniversary of the Motherland’s independence, at an expanded meeting of the Cabinet of Ministers and the State Security Council held on December 26, 2025, a decision was made to declare 2026 the year of “Independent neutral Turkmenistan – the homeland of purposeful winged horses.”
The new motto, which combines the values of independence, neutrality, and national pride embodied in the Ahal-Teke horses, was enthusiastically received by the public.
In honor of this event, a ceremonial conference entitled “Ýyllaryň şygary – kalbyň mukamy, Garaşsyz, baky Bitarap Türkmenistan – bedew batly at-myradyň mekany” was held in the conference hall of the hakimlik of Lebap velayat.
The forum was attended by heads of departments, deputies of the Mejlis, members of velayat, etrap, and city halk maslahaty, representatives of political parties and public organizations, Honorary Elders, student youth, and cultural figures. The speakers emphasized the historical significance of the initiatives of Hero-Arkadag and Arkadagly Hero Serdar.
As noted, the motto of 2026 logically continues the ideas of 2025, which, at the initiative of our country, was declared by a corresponding UN General Assembly Resolution the International Year of Peace and Trust. Special attention was given to preparations for the celebration of the 35th anniversary of Turkmenistan’s independence and to the conditions created for achieving new labor accomplishments. Participants of the conference emphasized that the preservation and development of Ahal-Teke horse breeding is among the key areas of activity in the coming year.
The event was accompanied by performances of masters of the arts. As a result of the conference, an Address to the President of Turkmenistan was adopted.
In addition, an exhibition titled “Watan – dillerimiziň baky senasy” opened at the Historical and Local Lore Museum and the Library of Lebap velayat. The displays feature rare museum artifacts and book publications dedicated to the national heritage and the famed Ahal-Teke horses.
