Ashgabat, October 11, 2024 – The Europe Today: President of Uzbekistan Shavkat Mirziyoyev took part in the International Forum titled “Interconnection of Times and Civilizations – the Basis of Peace and Development,” held in Ashgabat to commemorate the 300th anniversary of Turkmen poet and thinker Magtymguly Fragi. The event, chaired by President of Turkmenistan Serdar Berdimuhamedov, gathered a distinguished assembly of global leaders, including Russian President Vladimir Putin, Kazakh President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev, Kyrgyz President Sadyr Zhaparov, Tajik President Emomali Rahmon, Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian, Pakistani President Asif Ali Zardari, Mongolian President Ukhnaagiin Khurelsukh, Armenian President Vahagn Khachaturyan, heads of parliaments, and high-ranking representatives from international and regional organizations.
In his address, President Mirziyoyev emphasized the significance of the forum in promoting fraternal ties, deepening intercultural understanding, and celebrating the rich spiritual heritage of the world. He highlighted Magtymguly Fragi’s immense contribution to classical Eastern poetry and world literature, noting that the poet’s legacy holds a special place in Uzbekistan. Magtymguly was educated at the Shergazi-Khan Madrasah in Khiva, where he studied both secular and religious sciences. President Mirziyoyev also pointed out the Turkmen poet’s admiration for the renowned Uzbek poet and thinker Alisher Navoi.
Uzbekistan has been actively commemorating Magtymguly Fragi’s 300th anniversary this year, with various events such as conferences, workshops, literary evenings, competitions, and performances being held across the country. Additionally, a joint feature film about Magtymguly Fragi has been produced by Uzbek and Turkmen filmmakers. President Mirziyoyev expressed his strong support for Turkmenistan’s initiative to hold a global summit in Ashgabat next year as part of the International Year of Peace and Trust, which was declared by the UN General Assembly.
In recognition of Uzbekistan’s efforts to honor Magtymguly Fragi’s memory, President Serdar Berdimuhamedov awarded President Mirziyoyev a commemorative medal on the occasion of the poet’s 300th anniversary.
The forum concluded with the adoption of a Final Document, underscoring the shared commitment to fostering peace, development, and cultural exchange through the timeless legacies of great thinkers like Magtymguly Fragi.