The President of Turkmenistan Has Approved Decisions Regarding the Development of Akhal-Teke Horse Breeding
Serdar Berdimuhamedov, President of Turkmenistan and President of the International Association of Akhal-Teke Horse Breeding, has signed a package of resolutions establishing a long-term, comprehensive strategy for the development of the Akhal-Teke horse breeding sector at the international level. The adopted documents cover key areas ranging from the preservation of the unique genetic pool and achieving Olympic-level success to the creation of international tourism routes and the implementation of advanced biotechnologies.
A fundamental step in the institutional development of the sector will be the establishment of the International Akhal-Teke Horse Breeding Council. This new body is designed to centralize data on purebred Akhal-Teke horses worldwide, coordinate breeding activities, facilitate the exchange of genetic information, and refine the breed's breeding standards.
Concurrently, a large-scale program of scientific research and veterinary initiatives is being approved. The document mandates the development of specialized scientific programs focused on genetics, biotechnology, and horse health and disease prevention, as well as the provision of state support for innovative projects aimed at preserving the invaluable Akhal-Teke gene pool.
The resolutions place special emphasis on bringing Akhal-Teke horses to the forefront of global equestrian sport. According to the document, specialized training programs will be developed to prepare the horses to meet international standards for show jumping and other Olympic disciplines. To incentivize athletes and breeders, the International Association of Akhal-Teke Horse Breeding is establishing special international prizes and trophies to be awarded at major global competitions.
Furthermore, a regular schedule has been established for the premier global events: the World Equestrian Championship and the Akhal-Teke Beauty Contest will henceforth be held every five years, with the dates and venues for each tournament to be approved at Association meetings.
Another key area of focus is the formal designation of equestrian tourism involving Akhal-Teke horses as a priority international activity for the International Association of Akhal-Teke Horse Breeding (MAAK). Plans include developing—in collaboration with foreign partners—tourism routes that integrate the historical and cultural heritage of the Great Silk Road, ecological assets, and the rich traditions of Turkmen horse breeding, alongside programs for knowledge exchange and professional training.
In accordance with the signed documents, the International Association of Akhal-Teke Horse Breeding has welcomed new members from both Turkmenistan and abroad, and the next (17th) meeting of the Association is scheduled to take place in Ashgabat in April 2027.
