The Esteemed President Participated in a Mass Cycling Event Organized in the Capital

On March 7, the independent and permanently neutral Turkmenistan, together with the international community, widely celebrated World Health Day. President Serdar Berdimuhamedov took part in the mass cycling event held in honor of this remarkable occasion. In the era of the Revival of a new epoch of a powerful state, World Health Day—officially recognized in the national calendar of significant dates—is gaining deeper meaning, inspiring and uniting the people of Turkmenistan who are committed to a healthy and active lifestyle. This reflects the tangible results of the socially oriented state policy pursued by President Serdar Berdimuhamedov, whose unwavering priority is ensuring the well-being and happiness of the nation. In this context, promoting mass physical culture and sports activities across the country is of great importance. It is an undeniable fact that health and sports are inseparable concepts. A devoted advocate and promoter of regular physical exercise and sports, the head of state consistently participates in festive sporting events. The initiative for such events originally came from the National Leader of the Turkmen people, Chairman of the Halk Maslahaty, Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov. Today, these noble initiatives of Hero-Arkadag are being honorably continued by Hero Arkadagly Serdar. Today, the head of state took part in a sports and health event held in the capital, which began in the southern part of Ashgabat, at the starting point of the Health Path that runs along the mountain slope of Kopetdag. Thanks to ongoing efforts to preserve the natural beauty of the capital and its surroundings, this picturesque area has developed a favorable microclimate, making the unique walking trail a popular spot for residents and guests to enjoy active leisure. In the morning, the event gathered members of the Government, leaders of the Mejlis, ministries and sectoral departments, military and law enforcement agencies, the city administration, public organizations, media representatives, and university rectors. Among the participants were representatives of the Halk Maslahaty, the national parliament, as well as heads and staff of diplomatic missions and international organizations accredited in our country. Also in attendance were young students from the "Döwletliler köşgi" Palace, pupils of the School for Young Olympians, general education schools, athletes from Turkmenistan’s national cycling team, university students, and members of the public. Everyone warmly welcomed President Serdar Berdimuhamedov. To mark World Health Day, artists of the country presented a vibrant musical and dance performance. Launching the mass cycling ride, the President led the column of participants, all dressed in appropriate sportswear. Following the President, everyone began the route along the spacious avenues of white-marble Ashgabat, starting from the Health Path. Cycling events, which have become a cherished tradition in Turkmenistan, are among the popular forms of public initiatives held around the world on festive occasions and in support of various social and environmental causes. Every year, these sports events in our Homeland attract increasing numbers of participants—young people and older generations alike. As a result of the comprehensive strategy initiated by Hero-Arkadag and now being steadily implemented by Hero Arkadagly Serdar, all necessary conditions for physical education and various sports activities have been created in the capital and regions. The development of this important field is a crucial factor in strengthening health, preventing diseases, fostering physical and spiritual self-improvement, enhancing quality of life, and raising a harmoniously educated younger generation. The State Program "Saglyk," along with other relevant programs and projects, is being systematically implemented, and the specialized infrastructure is being modernized. Healthcare, sanatorium-resort, and sports infrastructure facilities that meet international standards are being built across the country. An innovative medical cluster is currently under development in the new "smart" city of Arkadag. Today, Turkmenistan possesses significant experience and potential not only for athlete training and skill enhancement but also for educating qualified professionals and hosting regional and global competitions. A notable example is the Olympic Complex in the capital, which successfully hosted the 5th Asian Indoor and Martial Arts Games in 2017, as well as other major international events in subsequent years. This modern sports complex has also been integrated into the infrastructure of the city of Arkadag. Excellent opportunities for engaging in sports, including water sports, are available in the National Tourist Zone "Avaza," located on the environmentally pristine Turkmen coast of the Caspian Sea. Winter sports, previously considered atypical for the local climate—such as figure skating and hockey—have also been gaining momentum and are enthusiastically embraced by Turkmen youth. In response to the state’s care and support, our athletes actively participate in prestigious international tournaments and achieve outstanding results, annually enriching the country’s collection of sports achievements with new awards. All of this helps raise the international standing of neutral Turkmenistan and supports the promotion of its constructive initiatives aimed at fostering fruitful cooperation with international partners and supporting the Olympic movement in its global humanitarian and peacebuilding mission. It is worth noting that sports diplomacy and the utilization of its potential are reflected in the Concept of Turkmenistan’s Activities and Priorities within the framework of the International Year of Peace and Trust, proclaimed by the United Nations General Assembly at the initiative of our country. The relevant resolution was unanimously adopted in 2024 during the 78th session of the UNGA. As outlined in the Concept, this year—marking the 30th anniversary of Turkmenistan’s permanent neutrality—will see increased efforts to promote international sports contacts and the hosting of sports events and UN Games initiated by Turkmenistan. Cycling, in particular, is one of the most popular sports in the world and is part of the Olympic Games program. It is also popular in our country and has its own history. Today, Turkmenistan possesses all the resources needed to host international cycling competitions. The number of cycling enthusiasts is steadily growing in Turkmenistan, where the bicycle is valued both as a means of transport and leisure, as well as the most environmentally friendly mode of transportation. Choosing cycling for recreation, travel, or sport promotes not only personal health but also environmental responsibility. It is important to highlight that all socioeconomic and sectoral programs and infrastructure projects implemented in Turkmenistan are closely tied to environmental concerns. Therefore, the sports and health events held in the country also serve as environmental awareness campaigns, promoting eco-consciousness across society. The Turkmen people’s age-old traditions of respectful coexistence with nature now continue through a scientifically grounded, long-term strategy being implemented across the country. Annual greening campaigns—including those dedicated to the National Spring Holiday, International Nowruz Day—have significantly increased the areas of green spaces, parks, and gardens that positively impact the local microclimate and overall environmental conditions. During the mass cycling ride, the head of state instructed Deputy Chairman of the Cabinet of Ministers T. Atahallyev, who oversees the agricultural sector, to maintain consistent oversight of the National Forestry Program, which includes comprehensive long-term goals for improving the country's ecological environment and systematically expanding forest areas. President Serdar Berdimuhamedov also tasked Deputy Chairman of the Cabinet of Ministers B. Annamammedov, who oversees the city of Ashgabat, to keep measures for further landscaping and greening of the capital under close control, ensuring ecological well-being and creating optimal conditions for city residents to engage in physical activity and sports. By taking an active and well-considered stance on current issues in healthcare, sports, and ecology, Turkmenistan works closely with the United Nations and its specialized agencies, as well as other prominent international and regional organizations, making concrete contributions to effective cooperation in these vital areas. The country’s proposals, including the promotion of cycling culture, have received widespread international recognition and support. A clear example is the UN General Assembly’s resolutions adopted in 2018 and 2022. Turkmenistan’s responsible and forward-looking approach to environmental partnership is also evidenced by its accession to the Global Methane Pledge and its initiative to establish a UN Regional Center for Climate Technologies in Central Asia, based in Ashgabat. Returning to the topic of the mass cycling event, it is worth emphasizing the uplifting and unifying atmosphere it created. The ride, symbolizing a commitment to health, ecological awareness, and national unity, showcased the population’s enthusiasm for sports and a healthy lifestyle. The cycling event, held on the occasion of World Health Day, was not only a tribute to global values but also a powerful demonstration of Turkmenistan's internal solidarity and alignment with the international community’s priorities in promoting well-being. As the President led the convoy along the designated route, the enthusiasm and energy of participants of all ages painted a vivid picture of the country's dedication to a healthier future. In recent years, the country has seen a significant expansion in sports infrastructure and the promotion of physical activity across all age groups. Public parks, fitness zones, and modern sports centers have been built throughout the country, including the Olympic Village in Ashgabat and the facilities in the new "smart" city of Arkadag. All these projects are aligned with international standards, reflecting Turkmenistan’s ambition to become a regional hub for health, sports, and environmental innovation. The government’s strategic investments in sports have already begun to yield tangible results. Turkmen athletes regularly participate in international competitions, earning medals and raising the country’s prestige on the global sports stage. These achievements, supported by the President's and the National Leader's personal involvement and example, continue to inspire the youth and reinforce the importance of physical education. Moreover, the popularity of cycling as both a sport and a means of eco-friendly transportation continues to grow. Many Turkmen citizens now view the bicycle not only as a form of recreation and fitness but also as a symbol of environmentally responsible behavior. By promoting cycling culture and organizing events like the mass ride in Ashgabat, the government contributes to both personal health and the sustainability of the urban environment. President Serdar Berdimuhamedov’s active participation in the cycling event reaffirmed his commitment to these values. During the event, he issued important directives aimed at further improving environmental initiatives and sports development. Specifically, he instructed Deputy Chairman of the Cabinet of Ministers T. Atahallyev to ensure constant monitoring of the National Forestry Program's implementation, which is key to improving the country’s ecological conditions and expanding green zones. Additionally, the President tasked Deputy Chairman B. Annamammedov, responsible for Ashgabat, with overseeing efforts to further beautify and green the capital, maintain ecological well-being, and create optimal conditions for citizens to engage in sports and physical activities. This proactive approach underscores Turkmenistan’s role as a responsible member of the global community, committed to the principles of sustainable development and international cooperation. The country’s partnerships with UN agencies and other global organizations in the areas of health, sports, and environmental protection continue to strengthen. Notably, Turkmenistan’s cycling-related initiatives have gained global recognition, evidenced by the UN General Assembly’s adoption of resolutions supporting cycling culture in 2018 and 2022. Turkmenistan has also joined the Global Methane Pledge and is actively promoting the idea of establishing a Regional UN Centre for Climate Technologies in Ashgabat, aimed at serving Central Asia. These moves reflect a forward-thinking ecological strategy, deeply rooted in the nation’s values and supported by concrete actions on the ground. In conclusion, the mass cycling event held in the capital city was far more than a celebration of World Health Day — it was a manifestation of Turkmenistan’s enduring dedication to public health, environmental sustainability, and global solidarity. It demonstrated how sporting events can transcend mere recreation to become powerful tools for national development, community engagement, and international collaboration. Source: Государственное информационное агентство Туркменистана

08.04.2025