Translated with AI
In January 2026, the Galkynyş National Equestrian Games Group of the Akhal-Teke Equestrian Complex of the President of Turkmenistan was awarded international certificates from the World Circus Federation and the European Circus Association for its significant contribution to the development of circus arts. The awards were presented at the 48th International Festival of Circus Arts, held from January 16 to 25 in Monte Carlo, Principality of Monaco.
On behalf of Turkmenistan, the event was attended by honored guests Serdar Pygyyev, CEO of the Galkynyş Group and Honored Horse Breeder of Turkmenistan, and Serdar Gurbangulyev, Director General of the State Circus of Turkmenistan. The presentation of international certificates further confirmed the high level of Turkmen circus arts and its recognition on the global cultural stage.
The International Festival of Circus Arts in Monte-Carlo, founded in 1974, is rightfully considered one of the most prestigious in the world. Its main goals are the preservation and development of circus traditions and the support of talented artists from around the world. The festival annually brings together leading circus troupes and experts, promoting the strengthening of international cultural ties.
The Galkynyş National Equestrian Games Group is well known beyond Turkmenistan for its unique performances, which seamlessly combine elements of trick riding, acrobatics, gymnastics, and advanced horsemanship. The participation of Akhal-Teke horses—one of the oldest and most famous horse breeds in the world—gives the performances a special expressiveness.
It's worth noting that in 2025, the Galkynyş Group successfully performed at the 47th International Circus Festival in Monte-Carlo, where they were awarded the Grand Prix and several special prizes. These achievements marked a significant milestone in the history of Turkmen circus arts and received widespread international attention.
The Galkynyş troupe, founded in 2007, has repeatedly represented Turkmenistan at prestigious international festivals and competitions. Over the years, it has won Grand Prix and top awards at circus forums in the Russian Federation, Italy, the People's Republic of China, Kyrgyzstan, and other countries. These achievements contribute to the popularization of Turkmenistan's national cultural heritage and the strengthening of its international humanitarian standing.
Turkmenistan places great emphasis on developing national culture and art, including circus arts. The rebirth of the State Circus of Turkmenistan in 2010 marked an important stage in the development of a modern circus school, drawing on rich historical traditions and modern technology.
A special place in this system is occupied by the development of horse breeding and the preservation of the purebred Akhal-Teke horses. The city of Arkadag is home to the Aba Annaev International Horse Breeding Academy, the Research and Production Center for Horse Breeding, and the Gorogly State Equestrian Circus, all of which meet international standards and provide comprehensive training for specialists.
The international recognition received by the Galkynyş National Equestrian Games Group in early 2026 clearly demonstrates Turkmenistan's contribution to the development of global circus arts and cultural dialogue among nations. This event is further evidence that traditional art forms rooted in national values resonate widely and are highly valued on the international stage.
