Turkmenistan

1. National Leader of the Turkmen people Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov made a working trip to the city of Arkadag, where he got acquainted with the preparations for the New Year celebrations. The head of the highest body of people's power of Turkmenistan visited a number of shopping facilities in the city of national importance, in particular, the Gökdere shopping center, where a wide range of goods are presented that meet the modern needs of citizens. As noted, the center has established a system of e-commerce and home delivery of goods. Chairman Halk Maslahaty emphasized the importance of introducing digital technologies into all spheres of life and increasing relevant skills among the population.

2. On December 27, the Chamber of Commerce and Industry of Turkmenistan will host a Youth Conference and Exhibition, which will mark the successes and achievements of Turkmen youth in education, science, sports, culture, industry, agriculture and other sectors of the economy. During the forum, an official ceremony will take place to present certificates that Turkmenistan has received from specialized UN agencies for achievements in the field of healthcare.

3. The Ministry of Education of Turkmenistan announced the start of enrollment of candidates to study at universities in China and Hungary in undergraduate programs for the 2024/2025 academic year. According to the department, the selection is carried out among citizens of the country who have general secondary, secondary vocational or higher education. Applications are accepted by the Document Acceptance Commission from January 3 to 10, 2024 at the Magtymguly Turkmen State University. From the commission you can obtain detailed information about the list of specialties, the number of budget places, conditions of study and living in China.

4. The State Circus of Turkmenistan presented the premiere of the New Year's show program “Golden Fish” with the participation of Ayaz Baba and Garpamyk. Ahal-Teke horses, trained pigeons, Turkmen alabai and monkeys - funny performances are played out on stage, a fabulous atmosphere is created. In addition to circus tricks, there are dances and musical performances in the arena.

5. The delegation of Turkmenistan led by Foreign Minister Rashid Meredov made a working trip to the Afghan province of Herat. As part of the visit, a meeting was held with the Minister of Foreign Affairs of Afghanistan, Amir Khan Mottaki. Topics of negotiations included the TAPI gas pipeline project, the TAP high-voltage power transmission line and the expansion of the Afghan railway infrastructure.

World

6. One of the world's first mass-produced artificial Christmas trees has been put up for auction in the UK. The tree was bought in 1920 for six pence and went under the hammer for 3400 pounds sterling. The tree, 79 centimeters high, has 25 branches, 12 berries and six mini-candlesticks. It is mounted on a red wooden stand with a decorative emblem.

7. Turkish Airlines plans to begin flights to Australia in March 2024. Within the framework of the marketing campaign for the launch of the new route, the airline is in talks to collaborate with Australian film star Margot Robbie. The actress will visit Türkiye a week before the first flight to get acquainted with the culture and attractions of the country.

Sport

8. The first finalist of the Turkmenistan Football Cup has been determined. It was “Arkadag”, which defeated Ashgabat's “Altyn Asyr” with a score of 4:0 in the semi-final return match. The meeting was held at the “Sport toplumy” stadium in the Buzmeyin district of the capital. The second finalist will become known on December 21 in the match “Ahal” - “Merv”.

9. The Turkmenistan Basketball Cup will be held in Ashgabat from December 20 to 24. The matches will be held at the sports complex of the Turkmen State Institute of Physical Culture and Sports. 7 men's and 7 women's teams will take part in the tournament.