Ashgabat, Turkmenistan – Turkmenistan marked the 34th anniversary of its independence in the Year of International Peace, Trust, and Permanent Neutrality, celebrating remarkable achievements across all sectors. President Serdar Berdimuhamedov reaffirmed the nation’s commitment to advancing economic, developmental, humanitarian, and political progress while strengthening Turkmenistan’s standing on the global stage. Large-scale festivities were held in front of the Mejlis (Parliament) Complex in Ashgabat, attended by the President, senior government officials, foreign business leaders, investors, and international journalists.
The celebrations began with President Serdar laying a wreath at the Independence Monument, joined by members of the Cabinet of Ministers, parliamentary leaders, heads of military and security agencies, ministries, public institutions, regional governors, Ashgabat city officials, elders, foreign diplomats, international guests, and journalists. The festivities continued in the square before the Mejlis, highlighted by a grand military parade showcasing the nation’s defensive strength.
In their own way, the people of Turkmenistan also honored the 33rd anniversary of independence with solemnity. A ceremonial march was held in front of the Supreme Court building in Ashgabat, while throughout the weekend, celebrations recognized outstanding employees from various companies and institutions. By presidential decree, numerous citizens received state orders, medals, and honorary titles for their special contributions to the nation and society.
Cultural Festivities
Following the parade, evening artistic and cultural performances took place at the “World” children’s stage, featuring fireworks, music, theatrical shows, and folk displays that reflected the talent of Turkmen youth.
On the eve of Independence Day, the regular session of the Halk Maslahaty (People’s Council) in Ashgabat provided further proof of the Turkmen people’s adherence to national traditions and principles of true democracy. The gathering reviewed historical achievements, set out future goals and priorities, and adopted key documents for the country’s continued development.
In addition, a gala concert was organized at the “Mecilis Merkezi” Conference Center in Ashgabat, bringing together government members, foreign diplomats, representatives of international organizations, honored elders, academics, cultural figures, creative professionals, students, and foreign guests who traveled to the capital for the celebration. The program featured diverse musical genres and premiere performances, symbolizing the nation’s achievements since independence and its vision for a prosperous future. Cultural figures and artists expressed gratitude to Hero Arkadag and Hero Arkadagly Serdar for their reforms, through music, song, and folk dances.
President Strengthens Turkmenistan’s Path
In his address, President Serdar congratulated the nation, stating:“We are successfully implementing programs to modernize our national economy, improve the quality of life for our citizens, and build new villages, towns, and districts. We are making great efforts to strengthen our country’s role in the international community and elevate its standing globally. Over the years of independence, our policy of neutrality—based on principles of peace, friendship, humanity, and trust, and rooted in centuries of tradition—has received full international recognition. It has been acknowledged as a new political model. The United Nations General Assembly’s third recognition of our permanent neutrality in this Year of Peace and Trust is the highest mark of respect for our principles of goodwill and peace.”
He added:“Neutrality is the guarantee of our rapid progress and offers new opportunities to fulfill the dreams of our brave ancestors—peace, stability, friendship, and good-neighborliness. The legal status of permanent neutrality serves as a solid foundation for expanding political, economic, and cultural cooperation with influential organizations such as the United Nations, European Union, CIS, Shanghai Cooperation Organization, OSCE, Non-Aligned Movement, and the Organization of Islamic Cooperation, as well as with nations worldwide. The 3rd UN Conference on Landlocked Developing Countries, held in the Avaza National Tourism Zone, stands as a testament to Turkmenistan’s peace-oriented and goodwill-based foreign policy.”
Memorable Highlights
A striking feature of the celebration was the ceremonial appearance of two horsemen in traditional attire leading a magnificent Akhal-Teke horse—an enduring symbol of Turkmen heritage—into the square. This was followed by a parade of festively decorated vehicles displaying achievements across key economic sectors, further underscoring Turkmenistan’s development milestones.
Achievements of Independence
Since gaining independence, Turkmenistan has steadily increased investment across all sectors of the national economy. Government investment policy has ensured consistent GDP growth. By the end of this year, investments worth 40.072 billion manat are expected to be attracted, reflecting favorable conditions for both domestic and foreign investors. The country’s macroeconomic policy has enabled rapid GDP expansion, with growth consistently at 6.3% in recent years—among the world’s highest. By the end of 2025, the share of the non-state sector in GDP is projected to reach 71.6%.
This sustained growth is the result of comprehensive strategic programs. On the eve of Independence Day, newly built residential complexes, cultural, social, and industrial facilities were inaugurated, including new housing in the villages of Dowletli Mekan, Bagtyly Zaman, and Bitaraplyk; the International University for Industrialists and Entrepreneurs; a new academic building adjacent to the State Energy Institute; student dormitories; a sports facility; a glass products factory in the northern industrial complex of Ashgabat; and new facilities for the State Border Service.
These landmark projects highlight the nation’s steady progress on the path of construction and creativity, while strengthening national unity, solidarity, and prosperity.
