Turkistan, April 22, 2025 – The Europe Today: President of Kazakhstan Kassym-Jomart Tokayev and Chairman of the Halk Maslahaty of Turkmenistan, Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov, paid a visit to the Turkistan Visit Center as part of their joint program in the historic city, according to media reports.
During the visit, the distinguished guests were briefed on a series of development and landscaping projects underway at the ancient town of Kultobe. Officials presented detailed information on the museumification process of the archaeological site, which spans an area of 27 hectares and has been the focus of extensive excavations.
The leaders were also introduced to the Concept of the Center of Artisans, a major cultural initiative slated to open in the near future. The center is expected to house artisan workshops, national gastronomic pavilions, a traditional bazaar, and hospitality facilities including hotels—further reinforcing Turkistan’s status as a hub of cultural heritage and craftsmanship.
Significantly, Turkistan was recently granted the title of World Craft City by the World Craft Council on March 25, in recognition of its historical and contemporary contributions to traditional arts and crafts.
Prior to their visit to the Turkistan Visit Center, President Tokayev and Chairman Berdimuhamedov toured the Ethnoaul cultural complex and the revered Mausoleum of Khoja Ahmed Yassawi—a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most prominent spiritual landmarks in Central Asia.
The joint visit underscores the deepening cultural and diplomatic ties between Kazakhstan and Turkmenistan, and highlights the shared commitment of both nations to preserving and promoting their historical and cultural legacy.
