Oriented on making people closer

As part of the International Visitor Leadership Program (IVLP), a delegation from Turkmenistan was received at the U.S. Department of State. During the meeting, held in an atmosphere of mutual interest, American representatives congratulated the delegation on their successful participation in educational visits to the United States and expressed a willingness to further strengthen bilateral cooperation.

The U.S. delegation included representatives from key departments such as Jonathan Meyer from the Bureau of South and Central Asian Affairs, Iverson Long, responsible for Turkmenistan, and Sara Sullivan, head of the Fulbright Program. Particular emphasis was placed on exchanging experiences in education and diplomacy.

Discussions focused on the Bureau of South and Central Asian Affairs' primary areas of work, which include implementing U.S. foreign policy in the region, strengthening diplomatic and economic ties, advancing educational initiatives, and supporting human rights.

The American side presented several educational programs, including:

The Fulbright Exchange Program, aimed at fostering cultural and educational connections;

Technical and financial assistance for enhancing education quality;

Scholarships and grants for students from South and Central Asia.

Special emphasis was placed on proposals to deepen collaboration with Turkmenistan through the Fulbright Program and other initiatives.

In response, the Turkmen delegation highlighted key achievements and directions of Turkmenistan's educational policy, emphasizing the successes in international cooperation.

Additionally, during the visit, Jennifer Hong, Deputy Director of the U.S. Department of Education's Office of International Affairs, conducted a seminar on the federal government’s role in higher education. Topics included funding educational institutions, supporting students through scholarships and grants, and improving access to higher education.

The meeting marked a significant step towards strengthening the partnership between the educational systems of Turkmenistan and the United States, opening new opportunities for the youth of both nations.

Photo: education.gov.tm