Turkmenistan and Italy Strengthen Educational Partnership

Ashgabat, 26 January 2026 – Within the framework of the Year “Independent neutral Turkmenistan — the homeland of purposeful winged horses.”, Minister of Education of Turkmenistan J. Gurbangeldiyev received Mr. Luigi Ferrari, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Italian Republic to Turkmenistan.

The Turkmen side underscored education's priority status within bilateral dialogue. It was noted that, thanks to the visionary leadership of President Serdar Berdimuhamedov, Turkmenistan's national education system is undergoing systematic enhancement, with higher education institutions actively integrating into the global educational domain in line with the Socio-Economic Development Programme of Turkmenistan until 2052.

The parties highlighted the continuity of Turkmen-Italian dialogue, initiated by a recent meeting with the Italian Institute for Asia held during the International Forum dedicated to the International Year of Peace and Trust, the International Day of Neutrality, and the 30th anniversary of Turkmenistan's permanent neutrality. This exchange of views further consolidated the traditionally cordial relations between the two nations.

Against this background, the Turkmen side is actively expanding its participation in international educational programs and professional exchanges within the framework of Italian educational projects. Short-term language and cultural courses, internships for teachers and students, as well as European Union projects including Erasmus+ and regional initiatives are being consistently implemented. This purposeful dynamic strengthens bilateral ties and integrates advanced international experience into the national education system.

Particular emphasis was placed on the robust educational cooperation underpinned by existing bilateral agreements, the teaching of Italian language in Turkmen higher education institutions, the execution of joint academic programmes, and cultural-humanitarian activities.

The meeting reaffirmed the mutual interest of both sides in further strengthening educational and cultural ties between Turkmenistan and Italy.

During the constructive exchange of views, promising areas of cooperation were discussed. In particular, the Turkmen side extended an invitation to Italian schoolchildren and students to participate in the international mathematics Olympiads to be held in March-April of this year.

«Garaşsyz, baky Bitarap Türkmenistan — bedew batly at-myradyň mekany» 

Ministry of Education of Turkmenistan