Ashgabat, June 2, 2026 – The Europe Today: President of Turkmenistan, Serdar Berdimuhamedov, has signed a decree establishing a State Organizing Committee to ensure the high-level preparation and conduct of international equestrian and horse beauty competitions, according to state media reports.
The initiative is aimed at further promoting the global recognition of the Akhal-Teke horse, regarded as a national treasure of the Turkmen people, and ensuring comprehensive preparations for forthcoming international events dedicated to the renowned breed.
Turkmenistan has intensified efforts in recent years to showcase its equestrian heritage on the international stage. A major milestone was achieved in 2024 when the “Akhal-Teke Horse-Breeding Art and Traditions of Horse Decoration” was inscribed on the UNESCO Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity. The country also organizes annual international Akhal-Teke horse beauty contests, equestrian competitions, and scientific conferences as part of celebrations marking the National Day of the Turkmen Horse.
The internationally acclaimed Galkynyş National Equestrian Games Group has also played a significant role in elevating the profile of the Akhal-Teke horse worldwide. Established at the initiative of the National Leader of the Turkmen people, the group has secured top honors at international circus arts festivals, including competitions in Monte Carlo, helping to highlight Turkmen horse-breeding traditions before global audiences.
Turkmen horse breeders have continued to achieve success abroad. At the Pearl of the East international equestrian and horse beauty competition held in Uzbekistan in May, Akhal-Teke horses delivered strong performances in Tashkent. On May 16, a ceremonial event in Ashgabat honored the achievements of the Turkmen delegation, with officials emphasizing that such accomplishments contribute to strengthening cultural and humanitarian cooperation between Turkmenistan and Uzbekistan.
Authorities said the newly established organizing committee will help further enhance the international prestige of the Akhal-Teke horse and support Turkmenistan’s efforts to preserve and promote its rich equestrian traditions on the global stage.
