At the opening of the International Forum “The Interconnection of Times and Civilizations the Foundation of Peace and Development” in Ashgabat, world leaders praised the contributions of Magtymguly Pyragy to culture, according to official Turkmen media.
President of Turkmenistan, Serdar Berdimuhamedov, highlighted that celebrations for the poet’s 300th anniversary include the unveiling of monuments both in Turkmenistan and abroad. He emphasized that Magtymguly is a remarkable poet and philosopher, advocating for peace and unity.
Speaking at the forum, Russian President Vladimir Putin noted that Magtymguly Pyragy’s works unveiled the beauty of the Turkmen language and became part of the people’s wisdom. He also mentioned that the poet lived in Astrakhan, and a bust was unveiled in Moscow this year in his honor.
Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian stated that Magtymguly was a key figure in fostering cultural unity between Iran and Turkmenistan. Kazakh President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev pointed out that the poet’s legacy symbolizes friendship between nations and has been included in UNESCO’s international registry.
Pakistani President Asif Ali Zardari emphasized the importance of cultural exchange and called for expanding educational cooperation. Uzbek President Shavkat Mirziyoyev added that Magtymguly’s works inspire mutual understanding and harmony, strengthening ties between nations.
Other leaders, including the Presidents of Tajikistan and Armenia, also highlighted the importance of cultural heritage in promoting peace and understanding.
Kyrgyz President Sadyr Japarov underscored the influence of humanism in Magtymguly’s poetry, while Speaker of the Grand National Assembly of Türkiye, Numan Kurtulmuş, called for unity, quoting the poet’s verses.
The conference, held on October 11, 2024, was dedicated to promoting the classical heritage of Magtymguly Pyragy. The event aimed to explore the interconnection between the languages and literature of Eastern peoples, as well as analyze the poet’s role in national statehood and his contribution to universal spiritual values.