Ashgabat, February 16, 2026 – The Europe Today: President of Serdar Berdimuhamedov announced that the Mary–Turkmenabat section of the high-speed Ashgabat–Turkmenabat highway will be opened and commissioned in 2026.
Speaking on Friday at an expanded Cabinet of Ministers meeting, the president outlined major infrastructure and development projects planned across the country, according to official Turkmen media.
The Mary–Turkmenabat segment forms part of the strategic Ashgabat–Turkmenabat highway, designed to enhance domestic connectivity, facilitate trade, and support economic growth across the regions.
President Berdimuhamedov further stated that a new modern village and a multipurpose power plant will be commissioned this year in the Gyzylarbat district of Balkan province. Additionally, residential buildings and a complex of social and public facilities are scheduled to open in the Guwlymayak settlement of the Turkmenbashi district.
The government also plans the ceremonial inauguration of new building complexes for the Turkmen State Institute of Architecture and Construction and the Turkmen State Pedagogical Institute named after Seyitnazar Seydi, aimed at strengthening the country’s higher education infrastructure.
To improve living standards nationwide, significant financial resources will be allocated to road construction, modernization of communications systems, and the expansion of water, gas and electricity supply networks. Plans also include the construction of water treatment and sewage facilities to enhance public utilities.
The president highlighted that a series of international events will be organized in connection with the year declared as “Independent Neutral Turkmenistan – the Homeland of Purposeful Winged Horses.” A government decree has been signed establishing a State Organizing Committee to coordinate preparations and ensure high standards for all scheduled activities.
During the expanded Cabinet meeting, officials reviewed Turkmenistan’s performance in 2025, received reports from deputy prime ministers, heads of ministries, and provincial governors, and discussed socioeconomic development priorities for 2026, including personnel appointments and dismissals.
