Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov on the Heritage and Strategy of the Turkic World. The New Silk Road
On October 7, the 12th Summit of the Heads of State of the Organization of Turkic States (OTS), in which Turkmenistan holds observer status, was held in Gabala, Azerbaijan.
In his speech at the summit, National Leader of the Turkmen People and Chairman of the Khalk Maslakhaty (People's Council) of Turkmenistan Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov emphasized that the OTG is a structure based on shared history, culture, and spiritual heritage, and its main goal is to strengthen unity and coordinate joint actions during this challenging period in the development of the global community.
Emphasizing Turkmenistan's commitment to the principles of peace, stability, and trust in the international arena, which was also recognized by the UN General Assembly resolution declaring 2025 the "International Year of Peace and Trust," the head of the Khalk Maslakhaty invited summit participants to the upcoming International Forum in Ashgabat on December 12 of this year to mark this significant event and the 30th anniversary of Turkmenistan's neutrality.
The Modern Silk Road: Energy and Logistics
Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov emphasized historical unity, emphasizing that the ancestors of the Turkic peoples left a significant mark on world history, including in the development of trade:
"The main branches of this route [the Great Silk Road] from China passed through our fraternal countries and extended to European states. Thus, by uniting different cultures, worldviews, and economic realities, the Great Silk Road allowed the peoples of Asia, the Middle East, and Europe to exchange knowledge, traditions, customs, and spiritual values..."
To achieve noble and long-term goals, Turkmenistan is currently promoting and actively implementing major projects in energy, transport and logistics, communications, and other strategically significant areas.
Cultural Map: From Racehorses to Scholarships
The cultural and humanitarian sphere plays a special role in the structure of relations between the amalgamated territorial communities. To preserve and promote the unique characteristics of the Turkic peoples, Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov put forward a number of specific proposals:
Culture Days and Joint Events. Culture Days of Turkmenistan are scheduled to be held in Azerbaijan soon.
Revival of Traditions. Cooperation is envisaged in reviving the ancient art of horse breeding between the two nations, particularly the Akhal-Teke and Karabakh breeds.
Academic Exchanges. It is proposed to focus on expanding academic exchanges in science and education, as well as establishing student scholarship programs.
Sports. Hosting international tournaments and training events to promote physical activity among young people.
In conclusion, the National Leader confirmed: “Following the legacy of our ancestors to develop relations of friendship and brotherhood, Turkmenistan is always ready for more constructive and close cooperation with all states that are members of the Organization of Turkic States.”
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