The Chairman of the Khalk Maslakhaty of Turkmenistan congratulated Ilham Aliyev on Azerbaijan's full participation in the Central Asian Consultative Meeting

National Leader of the Turkmen People and Chairman of the Khalk Maslakhaty of Turkmenistan, Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov, sent a congratulatory letter to President of the Republic of Azerbaijan, Ilham Aliyev, on the unanimous decision of the 7th Consultative Meeting of the Heads of State of Central Asia on the full participation of the Republic of Azerbaijan in this format.

In a message published on November 19 on the website of the President of Azerbaijan, Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov emphasized that this event is "of historic proportions."

It marks "the transformation of Central Asia and Azerbaijan into a single geopolitical and geo-economic space" and the creation of a strong unification of our peoples and states based on brotherhood, good-neighborliness, equality, and cooperation.

The National Leader of the Turkmen people expressed his firm conviction that this decision is "absolutely logical, objectively reflecting the historical development trajectory of the countries of Central Asia and Azerbaijan, their pressing needs, and genuine interests."

Role in Transcontinental Connectivity

The letter notes that for many centuries, our peoples have been united by geographic proximity, shared civilizational roots, and close cultural and spiritual values, which has created a "unique archetype of relationship."

The key role of the region in the modern architecture of the global economy was particularly emphasized: "Central Asia and Azerbaijan are destined to be the key link in transcontinental multi-vector connectivity," without which it is impossible to create a balanced and sustainable modern economic architecture. It is emphasized that Azerbaijan's participation in the realization of this "majestic goal" is now supported by an additional, solid political and legal foundation.

Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov recalled that the Consultative Meeting format serves as "the most important platform necessary for ensuring peace, trust, harmony, good-neighborliness, and mutually beneficial partnership," and expressed pride that Turkmenistan stood at the origins of this form of political interaction, first putting forward the initiative more than fifteen years ago.

Ashgabat's Initiative and Shared Prosperity

The National Leader of the Turkmen People specifically noted that it was at our country's suggestion that an extraordinary Consultative Meeting was organized in the Avaza National Tourist Zone within the framework of the Third UN Conference for Landlocked Developing Countries. It was there that Turkmenistan proposed that Azerbaijan join the Consultative Meetings as a full member.

"I am delighted to note that this initiative was fully supported by the Presidents of the Central Asian countries in Tashkent, becoming a highly significant and promising development for our progress toward shared prosperity," the letter states.

The head of the Khalk Maslakhaty expressed confidence that Azerbaijan's accession—given its political authority and colossal resource, industrial, and technological potential—will become "a defining element in the comprehensive rapprochement of our countries and peoples." This step will serve as an incentive to enhance "the role and weight of the Central Asian states and Azerbaijan on the global stage as responsible, united partners."

In conclusion, Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov invited Ilham Aliyev to the 8th Consultative Meeting of the Heads of State of Central Asia and Azerbaijan, scheduled for next year in Turkmenistan, wishing President Aliyev good health and a long life, and the people of brotherly Azerbaijan peace, happiness, well-being, and prosperity.

ORIENT