Turkmenistan has received a UNESCO certificate confirming the inclusion of the national nomination “Art of Breeding the Turkmen Alabai” in UNESCO’s Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity. The certificate presentation ceremony took place at the Center of the International Association of Akhal-Teke Horse Breeding and the International Association Türkmen alabaý itleri, Turkmenistan’s state media reported Tuesday.

An exhibition held as part of the ceremony highlighted the history of the Alabai and works by the National Leader of the Turkmen people, Chairman of the Halk Maslahaty of Turkmenistan Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov, and President Serdar Berdimuhamedov. The display featured fine and decorative arts, carpet works and photographic materials.

To mark the occasion, a showcase of the country’s renowned Alabai dogs, including winners of the international competition Ýylyň türkmen edermen alabaýy, was held at an open arena.

UNESCO’s Representative List includes traditions, skills and forms of cultural expression recognized as an important part of humanity’s intangible cultural heritage.