On June 29, a significant, truly historic event took place in our country, which will be inscribed in golden letters in the annals of our independent and neutral Motherland, confidently following the path of creation, prosperity and progress. With the participation of President Serdar Berdimuhamedov, large-scale celebrations were held in honour of the opening of the new city of Arkadag, which is a visible symbol of the Revival of the New Era of the Powerful State.
The construction of this unique city, which received a special legal status on the legislative basis – a city of state significance, is a concrete result of the grandiose transformations launched in our country, started by the National Leader of the Turkmen people, Chairman of the Halk Maslahaty Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov and now consistently continuing under the leadership of Arkadagly Serdar. The originality of the idea of establishing the city of Arkadag also lies in the fact that it was erected in one of the most ancient corners of the Turkmen land, where the glorious history of our ancestors originates.
The implementation of the grandiose urban planning project initiated by the Hero-Arkadag is a vivid confirmation of the success of the state policy implemented in Turkmenistan, which has a pronounced social orientation and is focused on the comprehensive innovative development of the country, the building-up of its economic potential and the steady improvement of the level and quality of the life of people. From the very beginning of the development of the project and from the moment of laying the foundation of the new city, the National Leader of the Turkmen people Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov constantly kept in the spotlight the progress of the large-scale work carried out there.
The implementation of this megaproject is known to be planned in two stages. As part of the completed first stage of development, 336 social, cultural and other facilities were erected. Recently, on June 16, with the participation of President Serdar Berdimuhamedov, the ceremony of laying the foundation stone for the second phase of the construction of the new city took place. At the same time, vehicles of various types, including electric ones, were donated to city institutions and organisations.
The new city, located in the picturesque foothills of the Kopetdag Mountains, is an example of a “smart” city, the life of which is integrated with advanced digital, information, communication and “green” technologies. Such an actual aspect as ecology is given special attention there. Thus, environmentally friendly materials were used in the construction of facilities. The successful solution of the tasks set in this area is evidenced by the fact that the city of Arkadag was awarded a certificate of accession to the project “Development of sustainable, green and climate-friendly cities with innovative solutions in the region of the Organisation for Security and Cooperation in Europe”.
Celebrations in honour of the opening of the country’s first “smart” city, which can rightfully be called the city of the future, were started at the monument to Akhan. Its appearance on the map of Turkmenistan also aroused great interest of the world community. Among those present were the heads of the diplomatic corps accredited to our country, foreign guests and representatives of foreign media.
Everyone welcomed President Serdar Berdimuhamedov with great enthusiasm.
Creative teams of Turkmenistan performed in the square with an inspired musical and choreographic composition.
The head of state proceeded to the monument depicting the image of the legendary horse Akhan, cut the traditional ribbon and opened a new city. At this moment, light clouds of multi-coloured balloons flew up.
Akhan – a magnificent representative of the famous Ahalteke breed – is a world record holder, included in the Guinness World Records. The original sculptural composition that adorns the new city, erected on the initiative of the Hero-Arkadag, is a symbol of people’s love for the “heavenly” horses, which are an invaluable asset and pride of the nation. It is also noteworthy that the new city was built in one of the most beautiful places in the Turkmen land – the birthplace of the legendary Ahalteke horses. Today, “winged” horses are the living embodiment of that powerful creative energy, which is embodied in the grandiose achievements gained by Turkmenistan in all spheres of life.
Then President Serdar Berdimuhamedov headed to the Main Square of the city of Arkadag.
The look of the new city found a harmonious combination of the best traditions of national architecture and modern trends in architecture and design. The complex infrastructure created there that meets international standards, including those in the environmental sphere, provides optimal comfort and convenience for residents. This is a visible embodiment of the principle “The state is for the people!”, which is the basis of the political strategy of Turkmenistan. By the way, eco-friendly types of public transport – electric buses and electric taxis – will run along the city highways. Thus, the city of Arkadag embodies all the newest and most progressive that is in the world of urban planning, engineering and technical thought.
President Serdar Berdimuhamedov arrived at the Main Flag Square of the city of Arkadag.
The square, above which the sacred Banner of the Motherland proudly flies on a 115-metre flagpole, has been beautified and landscaped. It is decorated with traditional carpet patterns, located on the emerald lawns surrounding the flagpole. From now on, the Main Flag Square will become the venue for festive and cultural events.
There, the President of Turkmenistan was greeted by the Minister of Industry and Technology of the Republic of Türkiye Mehmet Fatih Kacir and the Chairman of the Union of Chambers and Exchanges of Türkiye Rifat Hisarciklioglu, who took part in the celebrations.
On the occasion of the historic event, the guests presented the head of state with the keys to two new TOGG electric vehicles, donated by the President of the Republic of Türkiye Recep Tayyip Erdogan to President Serdar Berdimuhamedov and the National Leader of the Turkmen people, Chairman of the Halk Maslahaty Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov. It is noteworthy that these eco-friendly cars made in Turkey are white.
Expressing sincere gratitude to the President of the Republic of Türkiye, the President of Turkmenistan got behind the wheel of an electric vehicle and familiarised himself with its distinctive features and control system.
Then the head of state conducted a meeting with the Minister of Industry and Technology of the Republic of Türkiye Mehmet Fatih Kajir and the Chairman of the Union of Chambers and Exchanges of Türkiye Rifat Hisarciklioglu.
Expressing deep gratitude for the invitation to take part in the current celebrations, the guests conveyed heartfelt greetings to the President of Turkmenistan and the Hero-Arkadag on behalf of President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, who addressed the best wishes to all the Turkmen people.
Noting that he was very glad to see Turkish guests in our country, President Serdar Berdimuhamedov conveyed warm greetings to the President of Türkiye, thanking him again for the wonderful holiday gift. At the same time, the invariably friendly and strategic nature of the interstate dialogue, which in recent years has reached a new level, was stated.
Emphasising that Türkiye sincerely valued its fraternal relations with Turkmenistan, the guests expressed genuine admiration for the smart city of Arkadag, where beauty and comfort are organically combined with innovations and environmentally friendly technologies, including those introduced in the transport sector. In this regard, it was noted that electric vehicles made in Türkiye also fully met the environmental requirements.
As President Serdar Berdimuhamedov stressed, the opening of the “smart” city of Arkadag with a modern integrated infrastructure, founded on the initiative of the National Leader of the Turkmen people, was an important step towards further improving the level and quality of the life of the people. Recently, the second phase of the construction of the new city was launched, which provides for the construction of industrial and service facilities giving ample opportunities for interaction with Turkish partners and the implementation of joint projects.
Expressing gratitude to the head of state for the support provided in matters of the bilateral cooperation, the guests confirmed the high interest of Turkish business circles in building mutually beneficial ties with Turkmenistan, where a favourable investment climate had been created and large-scale transformations were being carried out.
At the end of the meeting, President Serdar Berdimuhamedov and representatives of the friendly country expressed confidence in the further successful development of the fruitful Turkmen-Turkish relations and exchanged congratulations and good wishes on the occasion of Kurban Bayramy (Eid al-Fitr) celebrated these days.
It should be noted that during the celebrations, the opening ceremony of the Arkadag Monument, depicting the image of the National Leader of the Turkmen people, Chairman of the Halk Maslahaty riding an Ahalteke horse, symbolising our country’s striving for new great achievements, was also held. The total height of the Monument erected in the Central Park of the city is 43 metres. Around its base, there is a fountain with a diameter of 65 metres. The top of the snow-white column, on which the sculptural composition is installed, is decorated with golden ears of wheat as a symbol of abundance and prosperity.
Speaking at the ceremony, the Chairwoman of the Mejlis D. Gulmanova highlighted the historical significance of the opening of the city of Arkadag, founded on the initiative of the National Leader of the Turkmen people Gurbanguly
Berdimuhamedov, whose life and fate were inextricably linked with the life and fate of the Motherland. It was noted that the implementation of such a unique urban development project became possible as a result of the targeted efforts of the Hero-Arkadag and the President of Turkmenistan Serdar Berdimuhamedov.
It was emphasised that selfless service to the Motherland and tireless concern for the wellbeing of the people of Turkmenistan brought the Hero-Arkadag deep respect and trust of the people. This is evidenced by the assignment, according to the Resolution of the Mejlis of Turkmenistan, of the name of the National Leader of the Turkmen people Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov to the Monument installed in the Central Park of the city, which is now rightfully called the Arkadag Monument.
The opening ceremony of the city of Arkadag continued in front of the tribune in the square, which met numerous guests in an elegant attire, with performances by creative teams that prepared a colourful song and music composition and a festive parade.
Not a single holiday in our country, as before, is complete without the participation of Ahalteke horses, which have become faithful companions of the people and a living symbol of national history and its newest era. And in this big celebration, the world-famous Turkmen horsemen of the Galkynyş Group of National Equestrian Games performed with a demonstration programme.
In the literary and artistic composition, the guests of the festive event were presented with, the revived images of Oguzhan and his six valiant sons. The ancestor of the Turkmen nation appealed to his descendants, who would increase the glory of the great independent Motherland.
The parade continued with a theatrical literary and musical performance “Şanly taryhyň, şöhratly döwrün buýsanjy”, symbolising the inextricable spiritual connection of times and the continuity of generations.
Artists of Saparmurat Turkmenbashi the Great Main Academic Drama Theatre came to the square to the sounds of folk instruments, recreating the images of outstanding ancestors. The glorious sons of the Turkmen people addressed their compatriots with inspired words about the importance of the worthy continuation of great undertakings and the enhancement of the glory of the sovereign Motherland.
Then the legendary Ahalteke horse Akhan of silver colour, born in 2006, who is a descendant of Gurpla and Ruhubelent, was brought to the square. Its beauty was highlighted by ceremonial jewellery. The wonderful horse demonstrated a graceful gait and impeccable posture.
Akhan, which belongs to the Ahalteke equestrian complex of the President of Turkmenistan, was included in the Guinness World Records due to the fact that he covered a distance of 10 metres on its hind legs in 4.19 seconds, breaking the previous record, improving it twice.
It should also be specially noted that this magnificent horse was brought up by the National Leader of the Turkmen people, who is a skilled and experienced rider and a recognised mentor in the field of horse breeding. At the same time, it is important to emphasise that the Monument to Akhan was erected in the new city of Arkadag, which became its main decoration.
The celebration in honour of the opening of the city of Arkadag continued with a procession of representatives of the Mejlis and public organisations of the country. They are given a significant role in the progressive development of sovereign Turkmenistan, the democratisation of society and the strengthening of the legal and secular foundations of the state.
Further, workers of the national healthcare system, education and sports, the development and improvement of which is determined by the priority task of the state policy of President Serdar Berdimuhamedov, passed in front of the tribune. To this end, international cooperation is actively developing, modern buildings for these sectors are regularly commissioned, and their material and technical base is being modernised.
Among the objects of the new city related to these areas are Berdimuhamed Annayev Pedagogical Secondary Vocational School, the Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov Children’s Health and Rehabilitation Centre, Sachly Dursunova Medical Secondary Vocational School, kindergartens, secondary schools, medical institutions and sports complexes.
The festive atmosphere of the procession was given by a song and musical composition “Arkadag Serdarly bagtyýar ýaslar” performed by young Turkmen citizens.
Today, the main part of the population of our country is the younger generation formed during the years of independence – the successors of the wise traditions and precepts of their ancestors. It is they who are entrusted with the further fate of the Motherland and their people. Therefore, our state creates all the conditions for young people to master the most modern knowledge, to receive a high-quality education, to achieve success and to live freely and happily, creatively and with inspiration.
Further, workers from the construction, industrial and energy sectors passed in front of the tribune, who welcomed the opening of the city of Arkadag with great labour victories.
The next in the square was a column of representatives of the financial, economic and banking complex, entrusted with the provision of state and national programmes aimed at the prosperity of the country, including the digitalisation of the economy.
Employees of the agencies of the transport and communication sector – Türkmenawtoulaglary, Türkmendenizderýaýollary, Türkmendemirýollary, Türkmenhowaýollary and Türkmenaragatnaşyk passed in front of the tribune. In the period of the Revival of the New Era of the Powerful State, special attention is paid to the development of road, sea, railway and air transport. The transport and transit potential of our country, which takes an advantageous geopolitical position, is being strengthened.
The success of this leading industry, in which the latest technologies and advanced scientific and technical developments are being actively introduced, was reflected on the auto platform that drove along the Main Square of the city.
Then, President Serdar Berdimuhamedov and numerous guests of the holiday were greeted by representatives of the trade and textile industries, whose activities directly contribute to the promotion of products of the brand “Made in Turkmenistan”.
In the new city, wide avenues, meeting international standards in terms of technical parameters, were built. The use of electric buses and vehicles there will create opportunities for maintaining environmental wellbeing.
Two modern high-tech electric vehicles of the TOGG brand entered the square, which that morning, on the occasion of a significant event, were donated to the President of Turkmenistan and the National Leader of the Turkmen people on behalf of the President of the Republic of Türkiye Recep Tayyip Erdogan.
Next, in front of the tribune, the orderly ranks of workers of the basic sector of the national economy – the fuel and energy complex, those who, with their selfless work, increased the economic power of the country and strengthened its status as the world’s leading energy power, marched.
The procession was continued by the workers of agriculture, water management and the horse breeding industry achieving great success in solving important tasks for the further development of these areas of the national economic complex.
It should be noted that the buildings of Aba Annayev International Academy of Horse Breeding and the Research and Production Centre for Horse Breeding were built in the new city.
At the same time, it is important to stress that the first “smart” city of Arkadag in Turkmenistan has joined the project “Development of sustainable, green and climate-friendly cities with innovative solutions in the OSCE region”.
The literary, song and musical composition “Rowaçlanýar medeniýetim, sungatym!” was performed by leading pop artists and dance groups.
The festive demonstration was completed by representatives of the country’s many-thousand “creative guild”, masters of arts and cultural workers.
The state pays special attention to the development of this most important sphere, creating opportunities for creative workers, modernising its material and technical base and improving the activities of the institutions of this complex.
Modern buildings of Dovletmammet Azadi Library, the Museum of History and Local Lore, Sahy Jepbarov Specialised School of Arts, Shukur Bagshy Children’s School of Arts, Gerogly State Equestrian Circus, Aman Gulmammedov State Drama Theatre and residential buildings for cultural workers were erected in the new city. In addition, the Arkadag TV channel was created and the Arkadag Newspaper was established.
Then the motorcade of the President of Turkmenistan went to the place of opening of next new buildings.
Along the way, beautiful new buildings rose on both sides of the road. On the basis of the “smart” city conception, administrative and social facilities, comfortable residential buildings, buildings of structures of ministries and departments, bank branches and the State Archives of the city of Arkadag were erected. The architectural ensemble of the new city creates harmony with the local natural landscape.
It should also be specially noted that the city of Arkadag has an extensive road and transport infrastructure that meets international standards. Wide spacious avenues, streets and roundabouts are equipped with modern lighting, video surveillance and control systems. In particular, the Intelligent Transportation System (ITS) uses innovative developments in the modelling of transport systems and the regulation of traffic flows. Installation of appropriate road signs are carefully thought out. All this contributes to increasing the information content, safety and efficiency of road traffic and, in general, to optimising the interaction of all its participants – drivers, passengers and pedestrians. The main function of ITS is the introduction of “smart” roads equipped with intelligent technologies.
New electric buses and electric taxis are called upon to provide high-quality and cultural service for residents and guests of the city of Arkadag. A QR code option has been created to use programs such as Duralga and Ynamly Taksi. There are terminals for making non-cash fare payments and online orders. Convenience for passengers is also determined by dedicated lanes for public transport on highways.
Smart routes allow drivers to save travel time and to avoid traffic jams. The registration of waybills and the monitoring of traffic are carried out using a digital system. In addition, using the capabilities of the device installed in the electric buses, a special mobile software was created, including information on the routes of movement, the time of arrival of vehicles at stops, which, by the way, are distinguished by their originality. And of course, the operation of electric buses and electric vehicles will help maintain the city’s environmental wellbeing.
The work of “smart” car parks and charging stations for electric vehicles located in the city of Arkadag is controlled and regulated using special sensors and modern information and communication technologies. It should also be noted that the territories adjacent to avenues, streets and related road infrastructure facilities were beautified and landscaped.
A characteristic feature of the city of Arkadag are modern 5-, 7- and 9-storey residential buildings and 2-storey cottages built using “smart” home technology. This is an intelligent home control system that provides automatic and coordinated activities of all elements of its life support and security in real time via the Internet. As a result, houses and household processes can also be controlled remotely, for example, using a smartphone. Advanced technologies make it possible to keep records of the consumption of electricity, drinking water and natural gas. The introduction of a fibre-optic communication system in the new city made it possible to use high-speed Internet. A set of 4G equipment was put into operation to provide high-quality cellular communications.
It should also be noted that the construction of the city of Arkadag and the development of its digital platform became a kind of school for the practical application of theoretical knowledge, capabilities, innovative proposals and ideas for students and teachers of domestic specialised higher education institutions. As the Hero-Arkadag and President Serdar Berdimuhamedov stress, the younger generation is the future of the Motherland and the driving force behind its progressive development.
Today, our youth is actively involved in the implementation of large-scale reform programmes and major projects launched in the country. So, in the new city, students from several universities installed the “smart” house system in a number of residential buildings. Along with this, with the participation of teachers and students of higher educational institutions, digital solutions for the educational system were developed. Therefore, it is symbolic that the opening of the new city took place in a year whose motto is “Happy Youth with Arkadag Serdar”.
In the city of Arkadag, the new service, 123, was also put into operation for the first time. This is a single call number for the relevant operational services, including gas and fire safety and ambulance. Thus, the activities of the 123 Service are aimed at promptly providing the necessary aid and preventing emergency situations.
The motorcade of the President of Turkmenistan arrived at the complex of residential buildings waiting to be opened. That day became especially joyful for new settlers. In one of the houses, called Ygtybarly, the head of state visited a flat in which the young family of a specialist of the state insurance directorate of the city of Arkadag Kerven Durdyguliyev settled.
Warmly welcoming President Serdar Berdimuhamedov, the owner of the flat proudly spoke about the benefits of “smart” home technologies that provide residents with maximal comfort.
The four-room flat provides a full range of amenities, including those for children. The kitchen is equipped with modern household appliances. As K. Durdyguliyev said, living and working in the magnificent new city created by the tireless efforts of the Hero-Arkadag, where the latest achievements of science and technology were put at the service of people, was a great happiness for young people and for his family as well.
Expressing deep gratitude to the head of state and Arkadag Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov for their comprehensive concern for the wellbeing of the people and wishing them good health, longevity and new outstanding achievements in their noble deeds, the new settler assured young Turkmen citizens would respond to the high trust placed in them with selfless creative work.
The President of Turkmenistan also acquainted himself with the features of the “smart” home software developed by students of the Turkmen State Institute of Architecture and Civil Engineering. This program is called Arkadagly Ýaslar. All devices receive commands from the “smart” home local network server and are executed automatically. For example, with the help of a tablet connected to the server, household appliances are turned on, lighting, air temperature and humidity in the rooms are regulated. If cleaning of the premises is required, then the robot vacuum cleaner is started by means of the corresponding command.
You can enter the flat through a “smart” door. A “smart” house is also equipped with special devices (sensors) that, in response to movement, turn on and off the light, turn off electrical equipment in case of prolonged inactivity, notify residents when a water leak is detected, automatically shutting off its supply, etc.
In a word, the “smart"” home system combines all home devices and household appliances into a single complex, making it possible to control their functioning, ensuring safety and savings, to automatically perform actions and to solve certain everyday tasks.
It was emphasised that the students and teachers of the Turkmen State Institute of Architecture and Construction were proud of the high trust placed in them and expressed their best wishes to the Hero-Arkadag and Arkadagly Serdar.
Congratulating the new settlers on a significant event in their lives and wishing them happiness and prosperity, President Serdar Berdimuhamedov presented valuable gifts to the young family.
Then the motorcade of the head of state went to the Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov Children’s Health and Rehabilitation Centre.
The Centre is an important component of the social infrastructure of the new city, which includes a number of healthcare facilities that meet international standards in all respects. Among them are the 350-bed General Hospital, the 150-bed Oncology Centre, the 150-bed Maternal and Child Health Centre, the Emergency Centre, the Health House and the automotive company, which has various types of specialised vehicles. All these facilities, supplied with the most modern medical equipment from the world’s leading manufacturers, are under the jurisdiction of the Arkadag City Health Directorate, the building of which consists of the main and adjoining parts. The Sanitary and Epidemiological Service is located in the left wing of the complex, and the Pharmacy Service is located in the right wing. At the medical institutions of the city, where qualified specialists of various profiles work, all conditions have been created for the effective prevention, diagnosis and treatment of various diseases.
In this aspect, thanks to the constant efforts of the National Leader of the Turkmen people and the President of Turkmenistan, the city of Arkadag embodies the achievements of our country in the field of public health and is an example of the successful introduction of advanced methods and technologies in this area, including digital medicine.
The consistent work carried out in the Motherland to improve the health of the people and the implementation of the Saglyk State Programme are inextricably linked with the systematic steps taken to stimulate and develop the mass physical culture and sports movement, to widely involve the population, and especially young people in it, and the establishment of the principles of a healthy lifestyle in society.
For these purposes, the Main City Directorate of Physical Culture and Sports was established in the city of Arkadag, a Multidisciplinary Sports Complex and a Sports Centre (Aquatic Sports Complex), a stadium for 10,000 seats, fitted with appropriate equipment and inventory, were built. There are all conditions for practicing martial arts, football, volleyball, basketball, tennis and table tennis, weightlifting and track and field athletics, gymnastics, fencing, chess, draughts, aquatic sports and others. There are also fitness halls, gyms, conference and treatment rooms, among others. And in the Sports Centre, in addition to a large swimming pool, there is a children’s pool with water attractions.
Athletes, including the winners of international tournaments, students of Turkmen State Institute of Physical Education and Sports and specialised educational institutions, who demonstrated their skills in various sports, performed in the demonstration exercises in front of the city stadium. The Sagdyn Nesil student dance group presented their creative gift. Swimmers and water polo players demonstrated their skills at the Sports Centre. The bright performances of athletes took place in the halls of the Multifunctional Sports Complex.
President Serdar Berdimuhamedov entered the building of the Centre offering ample opportunities for the restoration and improvement of the health of children and their upbringing, training and recreation.
In fact, this is a whole children’s town, including a complex of facilities: an administrative building, two kindergartens, for 150 and 100 children, and a health and rehabilitation department. Its total area is about 16.3 hectares. The territory of the complex, beautified, landscaped and decorated with images of fairy-tale characters, has children’s playgrounds with colourful attractions and other attributes for a fun and interesting pastime for children in the fresh air. For these sites, sand with healing properties was specially brought from the shore of the Caspian Sea. Outdoor pools are equipped there, openwork pavilions are installed, and comfortable paths are laid.
The administrative building houses the headquarters of the Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov Charitable Foundation for Aid to Children in Need of Guardianship. Since its establishment on the initiative of the National Leader of the Turkmen people, Chairman of Halk Maslahaty of Turkmenistan in March 2021, the Foundation has been carrying out large-scale important work to take care of our young citizens who have lost parental care and need special social support.
The noble undertakings and deeds of the Hero-Arkadag, who shows unceasing, truly paternal attention to the younger generation are the continuation of the centuries-old wise traditions and spiritual and moral foundations of the Turkmen society.
President Serdar Berdimuhamedov visited a physiotherapy department in the Centre. The President was informed in detail of modern equipment from the largest world manufacturers, in particular the simulation training devices that help restore and strengthen the musculoskeletal system of children and improve the function of the central and peripheral nervous systems.
The President of Turkmenistan visited the department of early childhood development and adaptation. It offers the conditions conducive to promoting the harmonious development of children and instilling in them initial learning skills through entertaining games and has specially designed age-appropriate play equipment that fully meets the requirements.
As noted above, the infrastructure of the Centre includes two kindergartens designed for 100 and 150 children. A warm and cosy environment reigns in the classrooms so that young dwellers feel at home. The group rooms in each kindergarten are equipped with comfortable furniture, multifunctional beds and other necessary equipment and devices. The comfortable conditions are created not only for children, but also for kindergarten teachers and health specialists.
One of the buildings of the Centre houses the department of health improvement and rehabilitation, the consultative and diagnostic departments. There is a phytobar on the ground floor that offers visitors various teas and healing decoctions prepared according to the science-based recommendations from the encyclopaedia Medicinal Plants of Turkmenistan by Hero-Arkadag Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov. The department of rehabilitation equipped with innovative technologies, and the specialised rooms, including early childhood development and adaptation, massage, examination, ultrasound and X-ray rooms and the rooms designed for various types of therapy and wellness procedures, are located on the same floor. All the rooms are fitted with advanced medical equipment. For example, modern equipment from the leading European, in particular, Bulgarian manufacturers, is installed in the magneto-, electro-, microwave and ultrasonic therapy rooms. These devices contribute to the highly effective treatment of children during the health improving and rehabilitation period.
The consultative and diagnostic department and doctors’ rooms stuffed with innovative medical equipment are located on the first floor of the building.
The health and education specialists expressed gratitude to the National Leader of the Turkmen people, Chairman of Halk Maslahaty Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov and the President of Turkmenistan Serdar Berdimuhamedov for their care and unceasing concern for the younger generation and the Children’s Health and Rehabilitation Centre meeting international standards in Arkadag City.
The foreign guests participating in the opening ceremony of Arkadag City, including representatives of the medical field, highly evaluated the conditions created at the Children’s Health and Rehabilitation Centre. They said they were impressed by the magnificent equipment of the Centre, which met in all respects international standards and offered the opportunities to restore and improve the health of children.
After completing his visit to the Centre, the President of Turkmenistan headed to the Ruhiyet Palace.
This magnificent white-marble building blends well with the architectural ensemble of the new city that is adorned with other remarkable objects. These include the five-storey building of the Cultural Complex that houses several municipal institutions.
The office of the Arkadag TV channel is located on the ground floor of the Palace. The TV channel was established in accordance with the Resolution of the President of Turkmenistan with the aim of ensuring the full coverage of the achievements of independent and neutral Turkmenistan and ongoing large-scale work throughout the country and in the city of Arkadag. The editorial office of the Arkadag Newspaper is located on the first floor. The main aim of this weekly periodical, established by the Resolution of the President of Turkmenistan, is to widely popularise the achievements of the Motherland in the new historical era and the opportunities of “smart” Arkadag City that has no analogues in the region. In this regard, the first issue of the newspaper was published, and the Arkadag TV channel began broadcasting on that day.
The Arkadag City Department of Education and the Arkadag City Department of Culture occupy the second, third and fourth floors.
Dovletmammet Azadi Library is one of the cultural and educational centres of the new city. It is designed to simultaneously receive 600 readers and to store three million publications. The library is equipped with innovative technologies and has an electronic catalogue. It also houses an observatory where visitors can observe the heavenly bodies through a modern telescope.
Arkadag City has the Museum of History and Local Lore. Its beautiful building houses exhibition halls of history and archaeology, nature and environmental policy, fine arts, ethnography and others. The museum has several specialised departments, including the those of culture, education and research, restoration and promotion of art.
Another attraction of the new city is Gerogly State Equestrian Circus. Its beautiful building in the shape of a horseshoe is stuffed with special equipment and technologies that meet international standards.
Aman Gulmammedov State Drama Theatre is given a significant role in the cultural life of Arkadag City. It has a 500-seat auditorium. The traditional elements of national architecture and decor are combined with the achievements of modern architecture and design in the external and internal decoration of the theatre and in all other nearly built facilities in the city.
Arkadag City has Sahy Jepbarov Art School and Shukur Bagshy Children’s Art School, each designed for 240 children. They provide the conditions conducive to learning to play various musical instruments, including national ones, vocals, choreography, the art of bagshy, history and theory of music and choral conducting. In these schools, young citizens of Turkmenistan will also learn the basics of fine, decorative and applied arts, folklore, theatrical, variety art and design.
The upbringing, education and harmonious development of the younger generation, starting from an early age, were taken into consideration at the design and construction stages of Arkadag City.
The specialised facilities in the city of Arkadag, including 10 preschool institutions, are to contribute to fulfilling the tasks set in this important area. The kindergartens, designed for 320 children each, offer the most favourable conditions so that children feel free and comfortable. The cosy group rooms, specially designed for different age categories of children, have comfortable furniture, visual and educational aids and toys. They also offer ample opportunities for music, creative and sports activities, learning foreign languages and acquiring labour skills. There are several computer classes in the new kindergartens that pays particular attention to the health and healthy and high-quality nutrition of children.
Specialised Training Complex 1 that comprises the preschool and school departments for 320 and 720 children respectively and specialised schools 2, 3 and 4, designed for 720 pupils each meet modern requirements in the sphere of training and education. The term of study at the schools specialising in the English language learning is 12 years. 11th- and 12th-graders study in the chosen areas: exact, natural, social and humanitarian sciences. The schools are connected to the Internet; they offer the conditions conducive to conducting research and creative activities, broadening the horizons and acquiring skills in various professions and have the music, arts and sports clubs and foreign language training courses.
Berdimuhamed Annayev Pedagogy Secondary Vocational School and Sachly Dursunova Medical Secondary Vocational School provide excellent opportunities for young people to receive modern education in their chosen profession.
Aba Annayev International Horse Breeding Academy was established in the new city on the initiative of the Hero-Arkadag. This institution of higher education, established in accordance with the Resolution of the President of Turkmenistan, occupies a magnificent building complex comprising the main 9-storey building and two 4-storey buildings. Its infrastructure includes classrooms, a library and a museum, large and small conference rooms, a sports complex, a student dormitory and a canteen. There is also a circus building (indoor arena) for 315 spectators, an open arena, a stable, horse training grounds and walking trails.
The Academy will train highly qualified horse breeding specialists, who are to be successors of the ancient centuries-old traditions of the Turkmen people in breeding and training the legendary Ahalteke horses, to make a decent contribution to the development of the industry in the new historical era, to build up fruitful cooperation with foreign partners and to raise worldwide fame of the “heavenly” horses. The Academy has the faculties of horse breeding, equestrian veterinary medicine, equestrian sports, tourism and national equestrian games and agricultural economics.
In the new city, the Horse Breeding Research and Production Centre, supplied with equipment and technologies meeting international standards, and the administrative building of the Agricultural Centre were built in the new city.
The motorcade of the President of Turkmenistan arrived at the Ruhiyet Palace. The President headed to the large hall of the Ruhiyet Palace designed and equipped to host major events and forums. The solemn meeting and award ceremony took place at the Ruhiyet Palace. The Deputy Chairmen of the Cabinet of Ministers, heads of security, defence and law-enforcement agencies, ministries, departments and public organisations, the Chairman of the State Committee for the Construction of the City of Arkadag under the President of Turkmenistan, the hyakims of the cities of Arkadag and Ashgabat, foreign guests and representatives of the mass media and other participants attended the meeting.
The Chairman of the Construction of the City of Arkadag under the President of Turkmenistan D. Orazov, the heads of international organisations and the representatives of well-known foreign companies awarded more than 20 certificates and diplomas to the new unique city.
The Secretary General of the Economic Cooperation Organisation Khusrav Noziri was the first to present the ECO Certificate of Appreciation for the high-class construction of the modern city using optimised technologies, functions and resources, providing an improved structure for the high quality of life and being in line with modern urban planning and design standards.
The TURKSOY Secretary General Sultan Raev presented the City of the 21st Century Special Certificate of the International Organisation of Turkic Culture (TURKSOY).
The certificate “The first smart city of the Turkic world” was presented by the Secretary General of the Organisation of Turkic States Kubanychbek Omuraliyev.
The CIS Deputy Secretary General Ilkhom Nematov awarded the diploma of the International Assembly of Capitals and Major Cities of the CIS Association (IAC) to Arkadag City for the comprehensive implementation of the Smart City Programme.
The Secretary General of the Union of Engineers and Architects of the Turkic World Ilyas Demirci presented a special urban planning award of the Turkic World to Arkadag City.
The Deputy Director General and Managing Director of the Directorate of Technical Cooperation and Sustainable Industrial Development Ciyong Zou presented the UNIDO Certificate of Appreciation to Arkadag City for its contribution to the creation of a smart city using the fourth industrial revolution (4IR) digital technologies, aimed at promoting inclusive and sustainable industrial development (ISID) towards achieving the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development.
The UN Resident Coordinator in Turkmenistan Dmitry Shlapachenko presented two certificates awarded to the city of Arkadag by the organisations and agencies of the United Nations.
These are the UNEP Certificate of Appreciation to Arkadag City for its efforts to implement the principles of inclusive, safe and smart sustainable settlements and communities that contribute to the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals and the New Urban Agenda and the Certificate of Appreciation to Arkadag City for cooperation with ESCAP on building inclusive, safe, resilient, smart and sustainable cities to achieve the New Urban Agenda and to promote the Sustainable Development Goals.
The Director of the UNESCO Institute for Information Technologies in Education Tao Zhan presented a letter of congratulations of the Institute on the successful implementation of new digital educational systems that contribute to building the digital economy and promoting sustainable development of Turkmenistan.
Tao Zhan handed over the letters of congratulations from the leaders of the League of Arab States Organisation for Education, Culture and Science and the Commonwealth of Learning intergovernmental organisation. As it was noted in the messages, Arkadag City, where innovative digital education systems were successfully introduced, provided new opportunities for quality education and lifelong learning and a creative environment for younger generation, thereby making an invaluable contribution to the further development of modern Turkmenistan.
An expert of the Central Asia Development Programme of the Global Green Growth Institute Oyunchimeg Amartuvshin presented the Green and Smart Arkadag City Certificate of the Global Green Growth Institute.
A United Nations Human Settlements Programme (UN-Habitat) expert, scientist Fundaro Salvatore presented the UN-Habitat Certificate of Appreciation to Arkadag City for the efforts to implement the principles of inclusive, safe, resilient and smart sustainable areas and communities that contribute to the localisation of the Sustainable Development Goals and the New Urban Agenda in Turkmenistan.
A member of the Coordinating Council of the International Association of Unions of Architects Bahrom Yusupov presented a diploma on innovative architecture to Arkadag City.
The Director of A. Nazarov Institute of Geophysics and Engineering Seismology of the National Academy of Sciences of the Republic of Armenia John Karapetyan presented the certificate of quality for the high quality of seismic micro zonation research and surveys and the seismic safety of Arkadag City.
The Deputy Director General of Central Research and Design Institute of the Ministry of Construction, Housing and Communal Services of the Russian Federation Ramzit Maskulov presented the certificate of compliance with the Sustainable Development Goals and international environmental requirements for construction projects based on the results of an independent scientific and technical study of the Institution.
A manager of FIT International (USA) Kirt Edwards presented the California Proclamation of El Cajon City Hall and the Proclamation of Lincoln University (United States of America) declaring Arkadag City Day on June 29, 2023.
An adviser for the Guinness World Records Aydin Turkgucu presented the certificate of the Guinness World Records for the most numerous garden lesson involving 539 people.
A manager of the certification department of KTQ International GmbH (Federal Republic of Germany) Joseph Galert Stanislaus presented the Certificate “Cooperation for openness and quality in healthcare” to the Multitype Hospital in Arkadag City.
The Multitype Hospital in Arkadag City was also awarded the Quality Certificate of Philips Medical Systems (Kingdom of the Netherlands). The document was presented by a manager of the International Export Department of the above-mentioned company, Pascal Peter Lambertus Munsters.
Thanking foreign guests for their high evaluation of the large-scale work done to build unique Arkadag City that received a special legal status – a city of state importance, the Chairman of the State Committee for the Construction of the City of Arkadag under the President of Turkmenistan D. Orazov expressed sincere gratitude to President Serdar Berdimuhamedov and the National Leader of the Turkmen people, Chairman of Halk Maslahaty of Turkmenistan for paying huge attention to ensuring a happy and prosperous life of the Turkmen people. He emphasised that the mega-project initiated by the Hero-Arkadag is to become a symbol of modern Turkmenistan, its grandiose achievements and victories in the period of the Revival of the New Era of the Powerful State.
At the end of the solemn meeting, the artists and cultural workers performed in a festive concert.
Then, the President of Turkmenistan headed from the Ruhiyet Palace to the Märkaw Hotel, where toy-sadaqah was given to mark the opening of Arkadag City.
Addressing those present, the President noted the first stage of facilities in the city of Arkadag was put into operation during the days of Kurban Bayramy (Eid al-Adha) and warmly congratulated everyone on the holiday.
The Ahal Velayat Imam offered up a Tebareke prayer to the Almighty for the prosperity of the independent and neutral Motherland and the wellbeing of the Turkmen people, the health and long life of the Hero-Arkadag and Arkadagly Serdar.
Then a festive meal took place during which musicians and artists performed.
An Ayat-Towir was read at the end of the sadaqah.
Wishing that the Almighty would accept all the festive sadaqah and prayers, President Serdar Berdimuhamedov said goodbye to those present and left the venue.
On that day, several bilateral documents were signed at Arkadag City Hyakimlik including the Agreement on the establishment of sister city relations between Arkadag City and Kazan (Republic of Tatarstan of the Russian Federation) and the Agreement on the establishment of sister city relations between Arkadag City and Telavi (Georgia). The documents aimed at enhancing relations of friendship and cooperation with foreign partners included the Memorandum of Understanding on the establishment of sister city relations between Ashgabat and Baku (Republic of Azerbaijan).
In the evening, the President of Turkmenistan arrived at the Central Park in Arkadag City, where a festive concert of Turkmen artists and cultural workers took place.
The concert began with the inspirational performance “Arkadag şäheri – bagt şäheri!”, which became a musical dedication to the beautiful city built thanks to the tireless and selfless efforts of the National Leader of the Turkmen people Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov, the initiator of the progressive transformations and innovative urban planning policy of our country.
In their performances, the participants glorified Arkadag City and their beloved Motherland continuing to confidently move forward under the leadership of President Serdar Berdimuhamedov along the path of peace and prosperity.
Young citizens of Turkmenistan presented their bright show as well. The musical and choreographic composition “Çagalygyn bahary –Arkadagyň säheri!”, performed by the Güneş children’s choir and the Şowhun, Şatlyk and Galkynyş dance ensembles, embodied the comprehensive care for the younger generation in Turkmenistan for them to have optimal opportunities to reveal and develop their Capabilities and talents.
The audience greeted with great enthusiasm the song Bagt Nury, written and composed by the Hero-Arkadag.
Turkmen artists performed the Aýdymlar Çemeni medley made up of the famous songs of foreign countries that served as a kind of symbol of friendship.
Following the tradition, not a single holiday in Turkmenistan is complete without kushtdepdi. The united folk group demonstrated their skill in performing kushtdepdi.
The bright finale of the concert was the song Öňe, öňe, diňe öňe, jan Watanym Türkmenistan!, the author of the lyrics and music of which is the National Leader of the Turkmen people. The inspiring song, performed by all the participants of the celebration, sounded like a hymn of patriotism and an expression of the high pride of our solidary people for their independent and neutral Motherland.
The culmination of the festive event was a drone show that depicted the sights of the new city, a map of Turkmenistan, national carpet patterns and historical artefacts in the evening sky and colourful fireworks.
At the end of the celebrations, President Serdar Berdimuhamedov warmly said goodbye to the participants of the festive event and left the venue.
The opening of Arkadag City marked another bright chapter in the glorious history of Turkmenistan that is rooted in the depths of millennia and continues in the new era of grandiose achievements, embodying the indissoluble link of times, the continuity of generations and the aspiration of the Motherland to move forward along the chosen path of constructive endeavours.