The Flag of Turkmenistan
The flag of Turkmenistan is comprised of a green field with a vertical red stripe near the hoist side, featuring five traditional carpet guls stacked above two crossed olive branches. To the right of the stripe lies a white crescent moon and five white five-pointed stars in a vertical column. The green color symbolizes Islam and the guls reflect the country's major tribes, while the moon and stars represent hope and the five provinces of Turkmenistan, respectively.
History of The Flag of Turkmenistan
The flag of Turkmenistan was officially adopted on February 19, 1992, following the country's declaration of independence from the Soviet Union on October 27, 1991. It is unique among national flags for its detailed depiction of a cultural artifact, the carpet guls, which are emblematic of the country's rich heritage in carpet making. The flag underwent a slight modification in 1997, when the carpet guls were altered to represent the five major tribes of Turkmenistan: Teke, Yomut, Saryk, Chowdur, and Arsary. The inclusion of the olive branches in the same year symbolizes the U.N.'s recognition of Turkmenistan's permanent neutrality. The design reflects both the nation's cultural identity and its aspirations on the world stage.