President Serdar Berdimuhamedov of Turkmenistan attended the sixth Consultative Meeting of the Heads of State of Central Asia, held in Kazakhstan during his working visit to the country. The summit was marked by discussions on regional cooperation and pressing international issues.
In his address, President Berdimuhamedov began by expressing his gratitude to President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev of Kazakhstan for the warm hospitality and the excellent organization of the summit. He emphasized the importance of these annual meetings, which have become a vital platform for open and constructive dialogue among the Central Asian nations.
“Our annual meetings have already become a tradition and, as practice shows, they are always relevant. During these meetings, a constructive, open, trusting dialogue takes place, which helps us synchronize watches, better understand the pressing issues of interaction, and, on this basis, make specific decisions,” Berdimuhamedov stated.
As the initiator of the Consultative Meetings, Turkmenistan views these gatherings as essential for maintaining a platform for political communication without the need for rigid rules and procedures. President Berdimuhamedov underscored the significance of preserving the original purpose of these meetings, advocating against the creation of any additional multilateral structures or institutions within this framework. He stressed that the current format allows for a comprehensive understanding of regional issues and the development of effective strategies for cooperation.
The President highlighted the importance of regional unity in the face of global challenges, noting that the primary priority for Central Asian states should be the preservation of peace, harmony, and stability. He emphasized the need to avoid being drawn into external spheres of influence or conflicts that could compromise the independence and sovereignty of Central Asia.
Addressing the situation in Afghanistan, President Berdimuhamedov called for a collective and constructive approach among Central Asian nations. He urged for a coordinated effort to integrate Afghanistan into international economic relations and support the country’s reconstruction and stability.
In terms of regional security, the President advocated for intensified cooperation among Central Asian states in political, diplomatic, and law enforcement spheres. He also highlighted the strategic importance of economic development, particularly in transport and communications, as key areas for regional collaboration.
President Berdimuhamedov concluded his speech by inviting the heads of state to an upcoming International Forum in Turkmenistan, dedicated to the 300th anniversary of the birth of Makhtumkuli Fragi, an important cultural figure in the region. He emphasized that this forum would provide a valuable opportunity for international dialogue on the current state of global political, socio-cultural, and economic ties.
“Today, such a dialogue is especially in demand. And we attach key importance to ensuring that the positions of the fraternal states of Central Asia are heard and understood in a weighty and authoritative manner,” President Berdimuhamedov stated, extending his invitation to the esteemed leaders of the region.
The summit concluded with a renewed commitment to strengthening regional cooperation and addressing common challenges through dialogue and collaboration.
