Ashgabat, December 17, 2025 – The Europe Today: A ceremony marking the presentation of the certificate confirming the inclusion of the national nomination “The Art of Breeding the Turkmen Alabay” in UNESCO’s Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity was held on December 16, 2025, at the Center of the International Association of Akhal-Teke Horse Breeding and the International Association “Türkmen alabaý itleri.”
Participants in the celebration first visited a thematic exhibition organized in the foyer of the Center. The exhibition highlighted Turkmenistan’s national values, the history of the loyal and courageous Alabay dogs, and featured notable works authored by the Hero-Arkadag and the President of Turkmenistan that reflect and glorify the rich traditions of the Turkmen people. Artistic representations of Turkmen Alabays in fine and decorative-applied arts, carpet products, and photographic materials were also displayed.
The official ceremony for the presentation of the UNESCO certificate then commenced at the Center. Addressing the gathering, Deputy Chairman of the Cabinet of Ministers of Turkmenistan T. Atahallyev expressed, on behalf of the participants, sincere gratitude to the President of Turkmenistan and the Hero-Arkadag for the comprehensive state-level measures undertaken to ensure international recognition of the country’s national heritage.
Special emphasis was placed on the significance of the congratulatory message from the National Leader of the Turkmen people, Chairman of the Halk Maslahaty of Turkmenistan, the Hero-Arkadag, addressed to the President of Turkmenistan on the occasion of the inclusion of the nomination in UNESCO’s prestigious list. The message underscored the importance of preserving and promoting the cultural heritage of the Turkmen people.
Following the speeches, the participants unanimously adopted an address to President Serdar Berdimuhamedov.
The celebrations continued at the Ashgabat Equestrian Complex, where a ceremonial showcase of Turkmenistan’s renowned Alabay dogs was held in the open arena. The event featured the winners of the international competition “Ýylyň türkmen edermen alabaýy” and was accompanied by song and musical performances, adding to the festive atmosphere marking this landmark cultural achievement.
