An expanded meeting of the Cabinet of Ministers and the anniversary X meeting of the international Association of Akhal-Teke horse breeding were held in Ashgabat under the chairmanship of President of Turkmenistan Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov. Heads of ministries and departments, hнakims of velayats, members of the international Association of Akhal-Teke horse breeding, heads of mass media were invited to participate in the joint meeting.

Noting that this year is the tenth anniversary of the international Association of Akhal-Teke horse breeding, the head of state warmly congratulated the audience on this significant date, as well as on the National holiday of the Turkmen horse, wishing everyone great success in the development of horse breeding. 

During the current meeting, the President said, issues of further development of Akhal-Teke horse breeding and equestrian sports at the international level will be considered.

In addition, today new members will be admitted to the international Association of Akhal-Teke horse breeding, and Decrees on awarding state awards of Turkmenistan to members of the Association who are conducting fruitful work on the development of Akhal-Teke horse breeding in our country and abroad will be signed.

In addition, the venue and time of the XI meeting of this organization will be determined, tasks for the future will be discussed and appropriate decisions will be made, President Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov noted.

A lot of work has been done in the 10 years since the establishment of the international Association of Akhal-Teke horse breeding. Currently, 155 legal entities and individuals from 34 States are members of the Association. They have done a lot for the development of horse breeding, which has had a positive impact on the growth of the population of Akhal-Teke horses and the number of their connoisseurs abroad.

As the President of Turkmenistan emphasized, a large planned work is being done in our country to popularize the "Paradise" horses that have been raised and bred for many centuries on the Turkmen land. In order to develop the horse breeding industry and conduct international competitions and competitions, equestrian complexes that meet international standards have been built and put into operation.

Much has been done to train highly qualified specialists, and modern structures have been created for the scientific development of horse breeding, strengthening the material and technical base of the industry.

To improve the social and living conditions of our horse breeders, the state has allocated funds in the amount of 680 million US dollars. We will continue to conduct large-scale work in this direction, President Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov said.

As you know, Turkmenistan annually celebrates the national holiday of the Turkmen horse on the last Sunday of April. To mark this holiday, an international beauty contest of Akhal-Teke horses and a scientific and practical conference on topical issues of horse breeding, horse racing, and equestrian competitions are held.

For the purpose of artistic embodiment of the beauty of our "Paradise" horses in works of fine and decorative arts, creative competitions are organized. These events raise the fame of the world-famous Akhal-Teke horses even higher.

As President Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov further noted, with the creation of the international Association of Akhal-Teke horse breeding, a solid Foundation was laid for the preservation of thoroughbred Akhal-Teke horses in the world, increasing their number and wide popularization.

At the same time, all conditions are being created in our country for international competitions – horse races, national equestrian games and other types of equestrian sports, including show jumping, horse marathon.

Great attention is also paid to the training of masters in horse racing and other types of equestrian sports, show jumping competitions and national equestrian games. For this purpose, a special training center has been opened at the Ashgabat equestrian complex, and modern open and covered arenas have been built that meet international standards.

Appropriate work has also been carried out on the formation of legal, economic and organizational bases for the development of horse breeding and equestrian sports. The law of Turkmenistan "on horse breeding and equestrian sports" has been adopted, aimed at protecting the gene pool of thoroughbred Akhal-Teke horses in our country and regulating relations arising in the cultivation, breeding and use of horses.

This document creates legal guarantees for improving the breeding business in horse breeding, preserving the breeding core of national breeds of horses included in the international gene pool, breeding and improving them, contributes to the development of horse breeding and equestrian sports, as well as achieving high results in this direction, the President said.

The group of national equestrian games "Galkynysh" also makes a worthy contribution to the glorification of Akhal-Teke horses and the popularization of the art of horse breeding. Speaking about this, the head of state cited as an example the successful performances of this group at international circus festivals in Moscow and St. Petersburg, Italy, the people's Republic of China, and the Kyrgyz Republic, where Turkmen riders were awarded Grand Prix and gold cups.

As you know, the program of the V Asian indoor and martial arts games held in September 2017 in Ashgabat included such a type of equestrian sport as show jumping for the first time. Continuing, the head of state once again stressed that large – scale work is underway in our country – the ancient homeland of racehorses-aimed at developing world-class equestrian sports.

We will continue to make every effort to ensure the successful performance of our Akhal-Teke horses at international competitions, the head of state said.

As noted, the priority tasks are to develop the horse breeding industry, restore ancient ancestral lines, preserve the purity of the breed and increase the number of horses. In these areas, mutually beneficial cooperation with foreign horse breeders has significantly intensified.

In higher and secondary specialized educational institutions of the country, young professionals are trained in various areas of horse breeding and equestrian sports.

For this purpose, as well as for a deep scientific study of the unique features of Akhal-Teke horses, their history, horse breeding and breeding work, an international higher school of horse breeding and a Research and production center are being built in the new administrative center of the Akhal velayat.

And this, – President Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov stressed – - is another eloquent evidence of the state's special attention to the development of the horse breeding industry at the international level.

The noble work of Turkmen and foreign horse breeders in raising Akhal-Teke horses is appreciated. We award them such honorary titles as Honored horse breeder of Turkmenistan, Master jockey-mentor of Turkmenistan and people's horse breeder of Turkmenistan. And this work will continue in the future.

In the case of wide coverage and bringing to the world community historical and other valuable information about the domestic horse breeding art, an important role is assigned to the magazine "Heavenly Akhal-Teke horses", published by the international Association of Akhal-Teke horse breeding in Turkmen, Russian and English.

Coordination of this structure, of horse breeders, specialists and experts is intended to facilitate and established a special Internet website of the Association where you can find news in the equine industry, to gather information about the contests Akhal-Teke horses, international exhibitions and conferences.

As you know, Akhal-Teke horses attract connoisseurs with their appearance, grace, and speed, and therefore are bred in many countries. In this regard, the President noted with satisfaction that with the creation of the Association, the number of connoisseurs of this breed of horses, as well as those who want to breed them, has grown significantly in the world. And this number is growing year by year.

Highlighting the positive role of the Association in establishing fruitful cooperation between Turkmen and many foreign horse breeders, the head of state expressed confidence that the interaction between the members of this public organization will continue to develop.

Then the floor was given to Deputy Chairman of the Cabinet of Ministers E. Orazgeldiev, who reported on the large-scale work being carried out in our country under the patronage of the head of state on breeding thoroughbred Akhal-Teke horses, achievements in the field of preserving and increasing this unique breed.

As noted, Turkmenistan has taken consistent measures to create a modern infrastructure for the equestrian sphere, which, in turn, has stimulated the development of equestrian sports and international cooperation in the field of selection and breeding, the creation of the racing industry, the training of riders and trainers. Techniques of Turkmen horse breeding, the effectiveness of which has been tested for centuries, the national school of horse training, attract the most interested attention of professionals from different countries.

President Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov has made a great contribution to the revival of the world glory of Akhal-Teke horses through his asceticism, the national horse breeding has found a worthy place in the life of the country, combining the heritage, culture, historical experience of the people and their hard work.

Ten years ago, at the initiative of the head of Turkmenistan Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov, the international Association of Akhal-Teke horse breeding was established, which United horse breeders specializing in breeding thoroughbred Akhal-Teke horses, training high-class racehorses for equestrian competitions, as well as horse scientists and other connoisseurs of the famous "Paradise" horses from different countries.

In a short period of time by historical standards, this organization has become an effective platform for interaction between domestic and foreign horse breeders. Regular meetings and consultations of the Association members give a new impetus to joint efforts aimed at preserving the phenomenon of the Akhal-Teke breed as a unique phenomenon of world culture, provide an opportunity to exchange experience, get acquainted with innovations and achievements in the industry, enrich the partnership with new projects, current ideas and business contacts.

On behalf of all the employees thanking the President for the great attention to the development of Turkmen horse breeding, for his constant help in strengthening it is material-technical base, comprehensive care for the domestic horse breeders, E. Orazgeldiev announced the proposal to establish the honorary title "Türkmenistanyň ussat halypa seýisi".

Having approved this proposal and addressed the Chairman of the Mejlis, the head of state drew attention to the need for proper work on making appropriate changes and additions to the country's legislation.

Then, to the applause of the audience, President Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov signed Decrees on awarding the most distinguished horse breeders of the country with state awards on the occasion of the national holiday of the Turkmen horse and awarding the honorary title "Türkmenistanyň at gazanan atşynasy" ("Honored horse breeder of Turkmenistan") to active members of the international Association of Akhal-Teke horse breeding, including foreign ones.

The Turkmen leader cordially congratulated domestic and foreign horse breeders, thanking them for their work to increase the world fame of Akhal-Teke horses and wished them new great professional success.

Then the head of state gave the floor to Ms. Katarine-Irene Anne-Margarite Jakob, a member of the international Association of Akhal-Teke horse breeding, Director of the horse breeding company "Jeýkob Ferdezuçt GBR" of the Federal Republic of Germany, who participated in the meeting via videoconference.

Addressing President Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov, Mrs. Katarine-Irene Anne-Margarite Yacob noted that thanks to the tireless care of the Turkmen leader, "Paradise" horses have become a permanent decoration of celebrations not only in the hospitable land of Turkmenistan, but also in all corners of the world, in countries where they also breed Akhal-Teke horses.

It was emphasized that as a result of the ascetic activity of the head of state, who demonstrates a high example of sincere love and reverent attitude to "heavenly" horses, Turkmenistan is an example for the whole world in the development of the horse-breeding industry and strengthening its material and technical base.

The noble work of horse breeders is given a decent assessment. Honorary titles in this field, along with distinguished Turkmen horse breeders, are also awarded to their foreign colleagues. This is a sign of great respect and support for industry workers all over the world.

As Ms. Yacob noted, the award of this honorary title to her along with several colleagues was an unforgettable, historical event in her life and caused a great sense of pride. Expressing deep gratitude to President Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov for the honor, the Director of the horse breeding company "Jeýkob Ferdezuçt GBR" cordially congratulated the head of state on the National holiday of the Turkmen horse and wished him good health, longevity and success in his many-sided activities.

Once again congratulating Mrs. Yacob on receiving the honorary title, the President wished her new success in the development of Akhal-Teke horse breeding and increasing the glory of "Paradise" horses – the pride of the Turkmen people – at the international level.

Then the President of Turkmenistan gave the floor to the President of the Hungarian Association of Akhal-Teke horse breeding, Mr. Jozef Gyule Nyeki, who is also participating in today's meeting via video link.

Expressing deep gratitude to the head of state, Mr. Nyeki noted that the Turkmen people have accumulated vast experience in the art of rewriting for thousands of years. Currently, Turkmen horse breeders are working on improving this art and developing Akhal-Teke horse breeding at the world level.

It was emphasized that Turkmenistan is actively implementing the achievements of world science and modern technologies in this ancestral industry, which puts it in a leading position.

As noted, the head of state has a great love for the Akhal-Teke horses, devotes his time to them, and inspiringly praises the "Paradise" horses in his literary work. The Books of the President of Turkmenistan dedicated to the "heavenly" horses tell about the unique traditions of breeding and upbringing of Akhal-Teke horses-the faithful companions of the Turkmen people, with which its rich centuries-old history and fate are inextricably linked.

Expressing gratitude for the award of such a high title, Mr. Nyeki stressed that it was a truly memorable and joyful event for him. Taking advantage of the opportunity, the head of the Hungarian Association of Akhal-Teke horse breeding warmly congratulated the head of state on the National holiday of the Turkmen horse.

After congratulating Mr. Nyeki on being awarded the honorary title "Türkmenistanyň at gazanan atşynasy", the President wished him further success in his noble work to preserve the purity of the breed and promote the world's beautiful Akhal-Teke horses. 

To the applause of those present, President Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov signs Resolutions on the admission of relevant citizens of foreign States and Turkmenistan to the international Association of Akhal-Teke horse breeding.

The head of state congratulated the new members of the Association and wished them all great success in solving the tasks facing the organization.

Then the floor was given to the Deputy Chairman of the Supreme Council for the environment of the Kingdom of Bahrain, Sheikh Faisal bin Rashid bin Isa al Khalifa, who took part in the meeting via digital video link.

Taking this opportunity, Sheikh Faisal conveyed warm greetings from the King of Bahrain, who addressed congratulations to the head of Turkmenistan on the occasion of the Holy month of Oraza and wishes for good health, prosperity and peace.

Sincerely thanking for the admission to the membership of the international Association of Akhal-Teke horse breeding, a frequent guest of Turkmenistan noted that for many years he has studied the culture and history of our beautiful country, where the art of horse breeding is rapidly developing.

You are making great efforts to preserve and promote the world's oldest horse breed - the Akhal-Teke horses, which conquer with their beauty and beauty, said the Deputy Chairman of the Supreme Council for the environment of the Kingdom of Bahrain, noting with pride that he himself dedicated his life to the development of horse breeding and equestrian sports in his country, where a lot of work is also being done in this direction.

Expressing his readiness to make every possible contribution to the activities of the international Association of Akhal-Teke horse breeding, which unites lovers and connoisseurs of "miracle" horses from all over the world, Sheikh Faisal bin Rashid bin Isa al Khalifa congratulated everyone on the National holiday of the Turkmen horse and addressed wishes of peace, good and prosperity to the fraternal people of Turkmenistan.

Thanking for the informative speech and kind words addressed to Turkmenistan, President Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov expressed confidence that Sheikh Faisal, as a new member of the international Association of Akhal-Teke horse breeding, will actively participate in the development of Turkmen-Bahraini relations in the field of horse breeding.

The floor is given to the Deputy of the Parliament of Romania, the head of the Interparliamentary Commission of friendship Romania-Turkmenistan, Mr. Antal Istvan Janos.

Expressing gratitude to the President of Turkmenistan for being elected as a member of the international Association of Akhal-Teke horse breeding, the speaker stressed that he takes this event as a great honor.

During the opportunity to travel through the ancient Turkmen land, Antal Istvan Janos continued, I was lucky enough to get acquainted with the traditions, customs, culture and history of the Turkmen people. The Akhal – Teke horses, one of the oldest and most beautiful horses on the planet, were particularly admired.

Indeed, the Akhal-Teke people confirm the fact that there is no equal in the world to your culture and the art of horse breeding. they are amazed by the methods of breeding and raising horses. I am very happy that I am witnessing the achievement of these high milestones, the Romanian parliamentarian said.

Noting that for many years he has been promoting thoroughbred Akhal-Teke horses in his country, the speaker assured that in the future he will contribute to the development of the Association in the parliamentary work.

Once again expressing gratitude for the admission to the international Association of Akhal-Teke horse breeding, Antal Istvan Janos congratulated President Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov and all members of this representative organization on the National holiday of the Turkmen horse, wishing them good health, longevity, and success in their activities for the prosperity of Turkmenistan.

Thanking Antal Istvan Janos for his warm words about our country, the head of state expressed confidence that the Romanian MP, along with the development of inter-parliamentary relations, as a new member of the Association, will take an active part in the promotion of Akhal-Teke horses in the world.

Further, the President of Turkmenistan signed a Resolution to hold the next – XI meeting of the international Association of Akhal-Teke horse breeding in April 2021 in Ashgabat.

As the head of state stressed, our horses have made a significant contribution to the formation of the world culture of horse breeding. That is why we will continue to continue the traditions inherited from our ancestors for the development of this sphere. We will further expand the scope of our activities to bring these traditions to the younger generation, to educate them in their love for these beautiful animals.

Concluding the meeting, President of Turkmenistan Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov once again congratulated the participants on the tenth anniversary of the establishment of the international Association of Akhal-Teke horse breeding and the National holiday of the Turkmen horse, wishing everyone great success in their work, the state news Agency of Turkmenistan reports.