Turkmen President Appoints New Minister of Culture to Strengthen Cultural Sector
Ashgabat, The Gulf Observer: President of Turkmenistan Serdar Berdimuhamedov has appointed Gurbanmyrat Myradalyyev as the country’s new Minister of Culture during an expanded meeting of the Cabinet of Ministers, as part of a broader government reshuffle aimed at enhancing the performance of key state institutions.
According to official reports, the president dismissed former Culture Minister Atageldi Shamyradov due to the improper performance of official duties. Myradalyyev, who previously served as Deputy Minister of Culture, was appointed to the post with a six-month probation period and relieved of his previous responsibilities.
During the same meeting, President Berdimuhamedov also replaced the editor-in-chief of the state newspaper Nesil. Hallygozel Shanazarova was appointed to the position following the dismissal of Artykguly Khojaberdiyev, likewise with a six-month probation period.
Expressing gratitude for the confidence placed in him, the newly appointed culture minister pledged to devote his knowledge and experience to advancing Turkmenistan’s cultural sector. President Berdimuhamedov instructed relevant authorities to strengthen oversight of cultural institutions, preserve and promote the nation’s historical and literary heritage, expand tourism to historical and cultural sites, modernise library and museum services in line with international standards, and support the production of new feature and documentary films.
The president also directed officials to ensure effective use of the Turkmen State Publishing Service’s production capacity and to make comprehensive preparations for events marking the 35th anniversary of Turkmenistan’s Independence, underscoring the government’s continued emphasis on cultural development and national heritage preservation.
