Ashgabat, November 13, 2024 – The Europe Today: The Gorkut Ata International Film Festival commenced with a grand opening ceremony today in Ashgabat, Turkmenistan. President Serdar Berdimuhamedov extended a warm congratulatory message to festival participants and guests, emphasizing the significance of cultural diplomacy in strengthening international relations. The President highlighted Turkmenistan’s ongoing efforts to foster friendly ties with other nations, with a special focus on culture and art as pivotal bridges of friendship.
The festival, dedicated to promoting cooperation and development in cinematography among the Turkic peoples, features the participation of prominent film scholars, actors, and experts from Russia and various Turkic states, reflecting broad-scale collaboration in the film industry.
In his congratulatory address, President Berdimuhamedov stated: “I sincerely congratulate you on the opening of the International Film Festival ‘Gorkut Ata’ held in Ashgabat. I wish great success to this film forum, which will serve as a unique contribution to the enhancement of the multifaceted culture and spiritual unity of the Turkic peoples.”
The President underscored Turkmenistan’s commitment to using culture and art to build bridges of friendship, noting that the country’s neutrality status guides its efforts toward fostering global peace and mutual understanding. He also lauded the leadership of the National Leader of the Turkmen people, Hero Arkadag, for transforming Turkmenistan into a land of international cooperation and cultural exchange.
President Berdimuhamedov highlighted the significance of this year’s festival coinciding with the celebration of the 300th anniversary of the great poet and thinker of the Turkic world, Magtymguly Fragi. He emphasized that the festival, held during the “Treasury of Reason Magtymguly Fragi” year and with Ashgabat hosting events in its role as the cultural capital of the Turkic world, is of immense cultural importance.
The President further recognized the Turkmen people’s rich cultural heritage, tracing their history back to prominent Seljuk rulers and emphasizing the ongoing dedication to preserving and promoting the national legacy in art and cinema. He praised the Türkmenfilm Association, named after Oguzkhan, for its contributions to international film festivals and highlighted the successful organization of the International Film Festival “Arkadagyň säheri” last year.
In conclusion, President Berdimuhamedov expressed his confidence that the Gorkut Ata International Film Festival would serve as a platform to deepen cooperation in cinematography, foster cultural exchanges, and strengthen bonds of friendship and brotherhood among participating nations. He remarked on the transformative power of cinema in promoting peace, unity, and mutual understanding.
The Gorkut Ata International Film Festival will continue with a diverse array of screenings, workshops, and collaborative events, providing a unique opportunity for cultural and cinematic enrichment.
