The Akhal-Teke horse, an inseparable companion of the Turkmen people for centuries, has become a symbol of the rapid development of the Motherland in the modern era. The wisdom of the ancestors, reflected in such sayings as "A horse is one's purpose" and "If I have a horse, I have wings," bears witness to the profound reverence for these "heavenly" steeds. Today, under the leadership of President Serdar Berdimuhamedov, Turkmenistan is carrying out large-scale efforts aimed at enhancing the global prestige of the Akhal-Teke breed and increasing its population.
The Akhal-Teke horses, the pride of the Turkmen people and a treasure of all humanity, embody the nation's lofty spirit and the country's dynamic progress during the era of the Revival of the New Epoch of the Powerful State. The fact that the current year, marked by the 35th anniversary of our Motherland's independence, is being observed under the motto "Independent Neutral Turkmenistan – the Homeland of Purposeful Winged Horses" clearly demonstrates that our Motherland is confidently advancing toward new milestones while inspiring citizens of Turkmenistan to achieve their goals.
One of the landmark events of the year took place in January, when the “Galkynysh” National Equestrian Games Group received international certificates from the World Circus Federation and the European Circus Association at the annual Monte Carlo International Circus Festival in recognition of its outstanding contribution to circus arts. This achievement marked the beginning of a series of celebrations and major accomplishments during the Year of "Independent Neutral Turkmenistan – the Homeland of Purposeful Winged Horses."
Renowned for their speed, grace, incomparable beauty, and loyalty, Akhal-Teke horses and their skilled riders continue to raise the green flag of the Motherland high by participating in international competitions and festivals held across the globe.
Earlier this year, President Serdar Berdimuhamedov signed a decree establishing an Organizing Committee responsible for ensuring the successful preparation and conduct of equestrian breeding and equestrian sports events throughout 2026, and approved its membership. This became another important step toward further enhancing the worldwide reputation of the legendary "heavenly" horses.
As part of the events dedicated to the Year's motto, the “Galkynysh” National Equestrian Games Group toured every region of the country in February. Performances were held at the “Türkmeniň ak öýi” centers in each velayat, where the celebrated riders demonstrated their remarkable skills and delighted audiences with spectacular performances.
In March, the “Galkynysh” group's performances in Baku, Republic of Azerbaijan, became a true celebration of friendship and art, showcasing the rich traditions of Turkmen horse breeding. The breathtaking equestrian displays attracted tremendous interest from spectators.
The "winged" horses and their riders also achieved remarkable success at the equestrian competitions and "Pearl of the East" beauty contest held in Tashkent, Republic of Uzbekistan, in May, earning the prestigious titles of "Asian Champion" and "World Champion", along with numerous other awards recognizing their exceptional beauty and outstanding training.
Turkmen riders also demonstrated their unrivaled skills at the international horse races in Kazan, Republic of Tatarstan of the Russian Federation, where they won prize places, trophies, and special awards established in honor of the Akhal-Teke horses.
It should also be noted that Turkmen equestrians took part in equestrian competitions held on the grounds of Windsor Castle in the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland.
Another milestone enriching the chronicle of this year's achievements was the participation of the “Galkynysh” National Equestrian Games Group in the 8th International Ethnosport Culture Festival held in Istanbul, Republic of Türkiye, where the group received prestigious awards.
These successes and achievements stand as clear evidence of the high international recognition accorded to Turkmen equestrian art.
The international events planned throughout the Year of "Independent Neutral Turkmenistan – the Homeland of Purposeful Winged Horses" are also intended to actively promote the country's cultural diplomacy. In this regard, the performances of the Akhal-Teke horses—recognized for their unparalleled beauty as part of both the national and universal cultural heritage—serve as powerful ambassadors of peace and friendship, further enhancing the significance of this remarkable year.
