BAKU, Azerbaijan, June 6. A formal reception
dedicated to the Independence Day of the Republic of Azerbaijan and
the Cultural Days of Azerbaijan in Turkmenistan was held in
Ashgabat, Trend
reports via the Embassy of Azerbaijan in Turkmenistan.
Following the performance of the national anthems of both
countries, the Ambassador of Azerbaijan to Turkmenistan, Gismat
Gozalov, addressed the audience and spoke about the historical
significance of the establishment of the Azerbaijan Democratic
Republic 108 years ago. He noted that although the first democratic
republic in the East existed for only 23 months, it demonstrated to
the entire world the Azerbaijani people’s aspiration for
independence and determination for statehood.
The Ambassador stated that following the restoration of state
independence in 1991, the Azerbaijani people embarked on a path of
stability and development under the leadership of the National
Leader of Azerbaijan, Heydar Aliyev. A process of state-building
based on legal foundations was launched, democratic institutions
were strengthened, and a free economic system was established. He
emphasized that under the leadership of the President of the
Republic of Azerbaijan, Ilham Aliyev, the country continues its
path of sustainable development and is transforming into a strong
state capable of responding to modern challenges. He also noted
that, as a result of the 44-Day Patriotic War, Azerbaijan restored
its territorial integrity and sovereignty within its
internationally recognized borders.
The Ambassador further highlighted Azerbaijan’s active
participation in energy, transport, and logistics initiatives that
play an important role in strengthening interregional connectivity.
He emphasized that strategic projects such as the
Baku–Tbilisi–Ceyhan and Baku–Supsa oil pipelines, the
Baku–Tbilisi–Erzurum gas pipeline, the Southern Gas Corridor,
including TANAP and TAP, as well as the Baku–Tbilisi–Kars railway
and the TransCaspian International Transport Route, East-West, and
North-South Corridors, have transformed Azerbaijan into a centre of
global cooperation.
Addressing Azerbaijan–Turkmenistan relations, the Ambassador
emphasized that ties between the two countries are based on common
history, language, ethnic and cultural affinities, as well as
shared ancestral roots. He noted that, thanks to the political will
of the leaders of both countries, the Azerbaijan–Turkmenistan
strategic partnership continues to develop successfully.
The Ambassador also highlighted the importance of
interparliamentary relations and dialogue between the Ministries of
Foreign Affairs in strengthening bilateral ties. He underscored the
role of the Joint Intergovernmental Commission in expanding
cooperation between the two countries. Within this framework,
cooperation is being successfully developed in the fields of trade
and economy, transport and logistics, energy, culture and
humanitarian affairs.
Referring to high-level reciprocal visits, Gozalov emphasized
the significance of the visit of President Ilham Aliyev to
Turkmenistan in 2025, as well as the visits of the National Leader
of the Turkmen people, Chairman of the Halk Maslahaty of
Turkmenistan, Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov, to Azerbaijan in advancing
bilateral relations. He noted that high-level and senior-level
contacts between the two countries continue in 2026.
Speaking about cultural and humanitarian cooperation, the
Ambassador recalled that the Cultural Days of Turkmenistan were
held in Baku and Ganja in 2025, while the Cultural Days of
Azerbaijan are currently taking place in Ashgabat and Arkadag.
Ambassador Gozalov also noted the participation of Turkmen
delegations in traditional events held in Azerbaijan, including the
“Khari Bulbul” Festival in Shusha. He further emphasized the active
participation of Azerbaijani artists in Turkmenistan, including in
programmes organized within the framework of TURKSOY.
The Ambassador paid particular attention to the promotion of
Azerbaijani culture in Turkmenistan, especially the legacy of the
great Azerbaijani composer Uzeyir Hajibeyli. He stressed that the
regular staging of the operettas “Arshin Mal Alan” and “Husband and
Wife” in the Turkmen language in Ashgabat serves as an important
example of cultural cooperation between the two countries.
Gozalov also described the construction of a mosque complex in
the liberated city of Fuzuli, initiated by Gurbanguly
Berdimuhamedov, as a vivid example of brotherhood and humanitarian
cooperation between the two peoples.
The Ambassador emphasized that Azerbaijan highly values
Turkmenistan’s policy of permanent neutrality and respects the
important role this status plays in the country’s foreign policy.
He noted with satisfaction that Turkmenistan has achieved
significant success in foreign policy owing to its permanent
neutrality status. He further stated that Azerbaijan and
Turkmenistan continue successful cooperation within international
and regional organizations.
Participating as the guest of honour, Deputy Chairman of the
Cabinet of Ministers of Turkmenistan and Co-Chair of the Joint
Intergovernmental Commission, Nokerguly Ataguliyev, conveyed the
sincere congratulations of President of Turkmenistan Serdar
Berdimuhamedov to the Azerbaijani side and wished the country
continued prosperity and success. He noted that the high-level
dialogue established between the leaders of the two states has
given a strong impetus to the development of
Azerbaijan–Turkmenistan relations. Emphasizing that the brotherly
ties between the peoples are rooted in deep historical traditions,
he highlighted the expansion of cooperation in political, economic,
cultural and humanitarian fields. He also stressed that this
cooperation contributes to strengthening mutual trust and respect
between the two countries and facilitates the successful
implementation of joint projects and initiatives.
The event was also attended by a delegation headed by the
Minister of Culture of the Republic of Azerbaijan Adil Karimli,
representatives of the cultural and public spheres of both
countries, heads and staff of diplomatic missions accredited in
Turkmenistan, media representatives, and members of the Azerbaijani
community residing in Turkmenistan.
The reception continued with performances of Azerbaijani folk
and classical songs by distinguished Azerbaijani artists. Guests
were also presented with traditional dance performances reflecting
Azerbaijan’s rich folklore heritage. Video presentations showcasing
the country’s history, culture and modern development were
displayed throughout the event. Participants were offered samples
of Azerbaijani cuisine, traditional sweets and national
beverages.
In addition, guests visited a photo exhibition dedicated to
Azerbaijan-Turkmenistan relations and viewed a special display
featuring products under the “Made in Azerbaijan” brand, including
Azerchay tea and the traditional Azerbaijani kelaghayi.