Ashgabat, July 3 | ORIENT. A festive reception was held in the capital of Turkmenistan to mark the 249th anniversary of the signing of the United States Declaration of Independence. The event was hosted by the U.S. Embassy.

The celebration brought together a diverse group of attendees, including members of the diplomatic corps, government officials, and prominent figures from Turkmenistan’s cultural, public, and media circles. The evening served as a vivid symbol of the growing friendship and mutual understanding between the two countries.

The event was filled with joy and a spirit of cooperation. Decorated with the flags of both nations and U.S. Independence Day symbols, the venue resembled a cozy little “American village”.

There was a genuine sense of openness and democratic spirit in the air, perfectly reflecting the very essence of the celebration. Guests mingled freely, took part in a variety of activities and light-hearted contests, where even high-society gentlemen and well-mannered ladies forgot their age and social status and joined in the fun with enthusiasm.

Those lucky enough to win the contests were rewarded with commemorative souvenirs, handed out amid cheers and friendly laughter, all thoughtfully prepared by the event organizers. Guests enjoyed a variety of drinks, from colorful non-alcoholic beverages to other refreshments, along with an array of salads, snacks, and sandwiches reminiscent of a laid-back family picnic. The warm, welcoming atmosphere made it easy to strike up conversations even among people meeting for the very first time.

U.S. Ambassador to Turkmenistan, Ms Elizabeth Rood, greeted the guests – speaking in Turkmen. In her remarks, the Ambassador emphasized that July 4, 1776, marked not just the birth of a nation, but the affirmation of enduring values that inspired its founding: independence, freedom, and the pursuit of happiness. “These values continue to guide us today and shape our relationships with other nations,” she noted.

Ms Rood expressed deep gratitude to the Turkmen side for its productive partnership and warm hospitality. She gave special thanks to President Serdar Berdimuhamedov, the National Leader of the Turkmen People Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov, and the Government of Turkmenistan for their cooperation during the challenging evacuation of U.S. citizens from Iran.

She also acknowledged the vital role of the event’s sponsors, both long-established and emerging companies, whose support, she said, “reflects the growing and dynamic commercial ties between the United States and Turkmenistan.”

Ambassador Rood highlighted the United States’ deep respect for Turkmenistan’s sovereignty and independence, accentuating that the country’s policy of permanent neutrality – recognized by the United Nations 30 years ago – serves as a guiding principle in their joint efforts.

Through bilateral cooperation, including the C5+1 platform, the two nations are strengthening economic, educational, and cultural ties while working together on security, disaster preparedness, and global challenges.

Representing Turkmenistan, Chairwoman of the Mejlis Dunyagozel Gulmanova delivered remarks, extending warm greetings on behalf of President Serdar Berdimuhamedov and the National Leader of the Turkmen People Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov. She underlined that celebrating Independence Day is a core national value, symbolizing the quest for freedom and cultural identity, while reinforcing the nation’s confidence in its own strength.

The head of Turkmenistan’s national parliament praised the active and long-standing cooperation between Turkmenistan and the United States, which is grounded in mutual respect and a commitment to peace. She emphasized Turkmenistan’s policy of permanent neutrality as a solid foundation for expanding engagement with the United States across a wide range of areas – from political dialogue to economic, cultural, humanitarian, and scientific cooperation.

In particular, she highlighted the development of the C5+1 partnership, including the Heads of State Summit in New York, the role of the Turkmen–American Business Council, opportunities for collaboration in combating climate change, namely methane emissions reduction, and the successful implementation of projects aimed at preserving cultural heritage.

The Speaker also underlined the importance of inter-parliamentary cooperation and extended an invitation to all present to take part in the events of 2025, which has been declared the International Year of Peace and Trust.

Independence Day in the United States, celebrated on July 4, is more than just a national holiday. It is a powerful symbol of the ideals that laid the foundation for the modern world, reshaping concepts of government and human rights. On this day in 1776, the Second Continental Congress in Philadelphia adopted the Declaration of Independence, primarily authored by Thomas Jefferson.

This historic document was not only a statement of separation from the British Crown – it was a manifesto that proclaimed what were then considered universal and “self-evident” truths: that all people are created equal, and that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable rights – among them, life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness.

The Declaration asserted that governments are instituted by people to secure these rights, deriving their just powers from the consent of the governed. This was a revolutionary statement, one that challenged centuries of monarchical tradition and affirmed the principles of popular sovereignty and self-governance.

For the American people, July 4th is a day to remember the courage of the Founding Fathers, who, inspired by the ideals of the European Enlightenment, laid the groundwork for a modern democratic state.

For the global community, it stands as a reminder of humanity’s enduring pursuit of freedom, equality, and justice – ideals that have inspired countless independence and civil rights movements around the globe.

By celebrating this day, Americans not only honor their past but also reaffirm their commitment to the lofty ideals upon which their nation was built.

The festal mood of the evening was amplified by a vibrant performance from the American country-rock band led by the talented artist Jessica Lynn. Their lively and energetic set served as a musical gift, showcasing the rich diversity of American culture. The band’s powerful presence resonated with the audience, creating a joyful and liberating atmosphere where everyone could feel part of a welcoming and inclusive community.

The group’s visit to Turkmenistan is part of a broader cultural exchange initiative launched by the U.S. Embassy. Known for their distinctive style, the musicians actively engage with local artists, fostering meaningful intercultural dialogue and deeper mutual understanding.

As part of their Ashgabat tour, the Jessica Lynn Band will hold free public concerts: on Saturday evening, July 5, at the “Turkmenistan” Cinema and Concert Hall, and on Sunday evening, July 6, at the “Arkach” Shopping and Entertainment Center.

These performances offer residents and guests of the capital a unique opportunity to experience American musical culture and continue the jovial spirit of celebration.

The U.S. Independence Day reception in Ashgabat once again reaffirmed the commitment of both countries to strengthening constructive dialogue and expanding mutually beneficial cooperation across all spheres – underscoring that shared values of freedom and partnership remain a strong foundation for bilateral relations.

Bekdurdy AMANSARYEV