The International Forum “Interconnection of Times and Civilizations—the Basis of Peace and Development,” held on 11 October 2024, in Ashgabat, Turkmenistan, marked the celebration of the 300th anniversary of the birth of the great Turkmen poet and thinker, Magtymguly Fragi. Under the chairmanship of President Serdar Berdimuhamedov, the forum convened world leaders, including heads of state from countries like Armenia, Iran, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Mongolia, Pakistan, Russia, Tajikistan, Uzbekistan, and Türkiye, along with prominent diplomats, cultural figures, and international scholars. The event aimed to honor the enduring legacy of Magtymguly while fostering cultural dialogue and highlighting the role of historical heritage in promoting peace and development.
Magtymguly Fragi’s profound contributions to literature and philosophy, rooted in ideas of unity, humanity, and patriotism, continue to resonate across cultures and eras. His poetry emphasizes the interconnectedness of people and civilizations and the importance of fostering mutual respect and understanding among nations. The forum’s central objective was to highlight how cultural and historical interconnections embodied by figures like Magtymguly can form the basis for peaceful coexistence and development in today’s globalized world. Scholars and officials from various countries discussed his influence not just on Turkmenistan but on world literature, pointing to the poet’s humanistic vision that transcended borders. The inclusion of Magtymguly’s 300th anniversary in the UNESCO List of Memorable Dates, as well as the addition of his manuscripts to the International Memory of the World Register, highlights the global significance of his works.
Outcomes of the Forum
The discussions at the forum resulted in several key outcomes, all of which underscore the role of cultural heritage in fostering peace and mutual understanding:
- The forum emphasized the need to popularize the national traditions and cultural heritage of various nations, especially among the younger generation. The participants highlighted the importance of fostering an interest in national creativity and cross-cultural understanding, which serves as a foundation for peaceful relations between countries.
- Participants noted the extensive translation of Magtymguly’s works into multiple languages and their publication worldwide. They advocated for further efforts to promote his literary contributions, including plans for an “Encyclopedia of Magtymguly Fragi” that would serve as a comprehensive resource for scholars and readers interested in his legacy.
- The forum called for deeper cooperation in studying and disseminating Magtymguly’s literary works, noting that such efforts contribute to the preservation of cultural heritage. By sharing these works globally, Turkmenistan aims to foster greater understanding between nations, ultimately contributing to global peace.
- The participants emphasized that the poet’s legacy represents an invaluable contribution of the Turkmen people to world culture. His poetry, steeped in love for his homeland and respect for universal human values, continues to inspire people globally.
- The forum concluded that cultural dialogue, particularly in relation to the works of great thinkers like Magtymguly Fragi, significantly contributes to international cooperation. The participants agreed to support further initiatives aimed at promoting his legacy through conferences, exhibitions, and creative evenings.
Turkmenistan’s Broader Role in Global Peace
The year 2024 has been declared the “Year of the Fountain of Wisdom of Magtymguly Fragi” in Turkmenistan. This declaration reflects the country’s commitment to promoting the poet’s ideals, which form the backbone of its foreign policy. Magtymguly’s emphasis on peace, justice, humanism, and respect for others is echoed in Turkmenistan’s diplomatic engagements. His philosophy symbolizes the bridges of friendship and brotherhood that he envisioned in his works, reinforcing Turkmenistan’s commitment to fostering peace and mutual understanding between nations. In line with this vision, Turkmenistan has taken proactive steps to promote peace and stability on the global stage. The forum’s discussions highlighted Turkmenistan’s role as a neutral mediator in international affairs, especially within the context of regional partnerships and global organizations. President Berdimuhamedov’s philosophy of “Dialogue: A Guarantee of Peace” reflects the country’s commitment to peaceful coexistence and constructive dialogue, particularly through its involvement in organizations such as the United Nations, the Economic Cooperation Organization, the Organization of Turkic States, and the International Organization for Migration. Turkmenistan’s foreign policy, rooted in neutrality and mutual respect, positions the country as a key player in promoting peace and cooperation, particularly in its region. The country has focused on fostering connectivity through the development of transport and logistics infrastructure that links East-West and North-South routes. These initiatives are designed to enhance economic integration across regions, creating mutual prosperity that contributes to global peace. The broader foreign policy goals of equality, mutual respect, and consideration of other nations’ interests guide Turkmenistan’s efforts to enhance trade and economic ties, as well as promote cultural exchange and understanding, further contributing to peace by building corridors of connectivity.
The forum on the interconnection of civilizations not only celebrated the rich heritage of Magtymguly Fragi but also positioned Turkmenistan as a pivotal player in global efforts to promote peace and cultural understanding. By focusing on the interconnectedness of civilizations, Turkmenistan is leading its commitment to dialogue and cooperation as essential tools for ensuring global stability. Turkmenistan continues to build bridges between nations, embodying the principles of peace, justice, and humanism championed by Magtymguly Fragi. The forum serves as a powerful reminder of the enduring relevance of cultural heritage in the pursuit of a peaceful and harmonious world.
Mr. Khalid Taimur Akram is an Executive Director, Pakistan Research Center for a Community with Shared Future (PRCCSF).
