On February 13, 2026, the Embassy of Turkmenistan in the Republic of Tajikistan hosted a gala event dedicated to the 2026 motto "Independent, permanently neutral Turkmenistan –homeland of purposeful heavenly horses" and the 35th anniversary of Turkmenistan's independence. About this reports MFA of Turkmenistan.  

The event was attended by representatives of the Tajik Society for Friendship and Cultural Relations with Foreign Countries, the Committee for Youth and Sports under the President of the Republic of Tajikistan, horse breeding specialists, representatives of the Turkmen diaspora and students, intellectuals, and Embassy staff.

The speeches emphasized the significance of declaring 2026 the year of "Independent, permanently neutral Turkmenistan –homeland of purposeful heavenly horses". It was noted that the art of Akhal-Teke horse breeding and the tradition of horse decoration, which are among the outstanding forms of Turkmen art, are included on the UNESCO Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity. It was also noted that the victories of the Galkynyş National Equestrian Group in international competitions are evidence of the recognition of Akhal-Teke equestrian art by the international community.

Furthermore, participants were informed about the events planned for 2026 in honor of the 35th anniversary of Turkmenistan's independence.

A photo exhibition and book collection were held in the Embassy building as part of the event. Guests were presented with works of decorative and applied art reflecting the beauty of Akhal-Teke horses, artistic photographs, books by the National Leader of the Turkmen People, Chairman of the Halk Maslahaty of Turkmenistan, Hero Arkadag Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov, and President of Turkmenistan Serdar Berdimuhamedov, as well as a thematic exhibition dedicated to the country's achievements during the years of Independence.

At the end of the event, participants were treated to dishes of Turkmen national cuisine.