Kassym-Jomart Tokayev Speaks at the International Forum “Interconnection of Times and Civilizations – Foundation of Peace and Development”, DKnews.kz reports.
The official visit of the Head of State to Turkmenistan continued with his participation in the international forum "Interconnection of Times and Civilizations – Foundation of Peace and Development," dedicated to the 300th anniversary of Magtymguly Pyragy.
In his speech, the President noted that Magtymguly is the founder of Turkmen classical literature and an outstanding thinker of the East.
“A vivid example of the historical significance of Magtymguly Pyragy’s figure is UNESCO's decision to include his works in the International Register 'Memory of the World.' His legacy is particularly revered in the Turkic world, which is why the TURKSOY Organization declared 2024 as the Year of Remembrance for the great poet and philosopher Magtymguly Pyragy. I am confident that this decision will contribute to further popularizing his works at the international level,” said Kassym-Jomart Tokayev.
According to the Head of State, amidst the complex geopolitical situation and numerous global challenges, the legacy of the world-renowned classic gains even greater relevance.
“Magtymguly Pyragy's poetry, deeply imbued with humanistic ideas, once again reminds us all of the timeless values of peace, trust, and mutual respect. All his works are filled with unconditional love for his homeland. He envisioned a bright future for his people through unity with the world and harmony with others,” the President said.
Kassym-Jomart Tokayev expressed confidence that Turkmenistan's progressive development and large-scale socio-economic and political reforms would contribute to strengthening the centuries-old Turkmen statehood.
“Next year, Turkmenistan will celebrate the thirtieth anniversary of its permanent neutrality. Consistently adhering to this status, preserving its identity, and firmly defending its national interests, Ashgabat steadily strengthens its authority on the international stage. Neutral Turkmenistan makes a significant contribution to strengthening security and stability in the world and promoting multifaceted cooperation in Central Asia and the Caspian region. At Turkmenistan’s initiative, the UN General Assembly declared 2025 as the International Year of Peace and Trust. The achievements of your country serve as a vivid example of fulfilling Magtymguly Pyragy’s cherished dream of creating a strong Turkmen state,” he said.
The Head of State spoke about events organized in Kazakhstan to honor the 300th anniversary of Magtymguly, which will serve as a tool for popularizing the rich heritage of the great philosopher and developing cultural diplomacy. According to him, the unveiling of a monument to Magtymguly Pyragy in Astana became a vivid testament to the unbreakable bonds of friendship and good neighborliness between the two countries.
Kassym-Jomart Tokayev also noted that on the eve of his official visit to Ashgabat, a ceremonial opening of a monument to the great Kazakh thinker Abai Qunanbaiuly took place. In his speech, he mentioned that the works of Abai and Magtymguly share deep reflections on the future of their peoples and high ideals of humanism.
“Their rich spiritual heritage, which holds a special place in the multifaceted culture of our peoples, is a treasure for all humanity. Kazakhstan and Turkmenistan are connected by common spiritual roots, a shared history, and centuries-old ties of friendship. These enduring values have become the foundation for an active dialogue between the two states, contributing to the further rapprochement of our peoples and the deepening of Kazakh-Turkmen relations,” emphasized Kassym-Jomart Tokayev.
The forum also featured speeches by the President of Turkmenistan, Serdar Berdimuhamedov; the President of Iran, Masoud Pezeshkian; the President of Pakistan, Asif Ali Zardari; the President of Russia, Vladimir Putin; the President of Uzbekistan, Shavkat Mirziyoyev; the President of Tajikistan, Emomali Rahmon; the President of Kyrgyzstan, Sadyr Japarov; the President of Armenia, Vahagn Khachaturyan; the President of Mongolia, Ukhnaagiin Khurelsukh; and the Speaker of the Grand National Assembly of Turkey, Numan Kurtulmus.
