Oriented on making people closer

In early childhood, listening to fairy tales of the peoples of the world, we thought that wise kings and noble princes, kind queens and beautiful princesses were characters in stories invented by adults to somehow entertain the little ones.

As we grew up a little, we were surprised to discover that queens and princes, dauphins and marquises were not fairy-tale characters at all, but, like us, truly living people. Thus, in the process of epistemological cognition, fairy tales in our minds were transformed into physical reality.

On the birthday of His Majesty, according to tradition, receptions, concerts, and exhibitions are held in different countries. And Turkmenistan is no exception.

So, on June 7, a reception was held in Ashgabat on the occasion of the official birthday of the King of Great Britain. Although the real date of birth of His Majesty is November 14.

The point is that for over 270 years, British monarchs have been “officially” celebrated in the summer – on the first or second Saturday of June, so that bad weather does not spoil the protocol ceremony. They celebrate solemnly and publicly. But the actual dates of their appearance on God's light, kings and queens can celebrate independently and in a narrow circle.

Representatives of the Turkmen government, the accredited diplomatic corps, business circles, as well as numerous friends gathered for the Ashgabat celebration on the occasion of the official birthday of King Charles III of Great Britain.

As expected, representatives of different nationalities and religions were present – ​​they are the ones who still hold the crown of the British Empire.

The pretty hostess of the local celebration demonstrated that she was glad to see everyone. The guests admired her as well, presenting her with bouquets of flowers.

Against the backdrop of a green lawn, ladies in elegant dresses, gentlemen in light suits, the sounds of live music and the aromas of English snacks – everything seemed to have come straight from the pages of a Jane Austen novel.

As always, Resul Klychev’s orchestra performed magnificently, entertaining the participants of the celebration not only with their mastery of performance, but also with a variety of repertoire – from English hits, including The Beatles, Turkmen melodies and to pieces of academic music.

The birthday ceremony of His Majesty Charles III was filled with sparkling champagne and the delicate aroma of wine. Of course, it would not have been possible without the famous Scotch whiskeys.

…The official part of the reception was centered around the speeches of British Ambassador Stephen Conlon, who emphasized the close ties between the cultures of the two countries, in particular, their shared love of horses. That is why the reception was held in a horse racing theme:

“You may have noticed that today’s event is decorated in an “equestrian” theme. The reason is that today in the UK one of the main horse races of the year is taking place – the Derby at Epsom Racecourse. This is an event for which everyone dresses very elegantly, and many women wear fascinator hats,” the Ambassador said.

Indeed, the Ashgabat golf club was full of exquisite outfits that day, as well as intricate headdresses that were more for decoration than for protection from bad weather.

There were so many of them that it was high time for the organizers to organize a competition of hats and other clothing products.

Summing up the results of bilateral cooperation, the diplomat recalled the 8th meeting of the Turkmen-British Trade and Industry Council in London in March, during which productive meetings were held between representatives of the ministries of Turkmenistan and British companies and universities. The next meeting is scheduled to be held in Ashgabat.

Special attention in the speech was paid to issues of education, development of the creative economy, cooperation in the field of environmental protection. Recent initiatives include the holding of the International Forum “Creative and Innovative Economy of Turkmenistan” in Ashgabat, the screening of a documentary film on regenerative agriculture, and BBC Nature filming of the Persian leopard in the Balkan region.

The Ambassador also noted the active participation of British universities in the development of language and academic exchange, expressing hope that one of them would open a representative office in Ashgabat.

…Stephen Conlon’s speech was so interesting to those present that even the musicians who entertained the public that day were plunged into deep thought.

In conclusion, the diplomat summed up the results of bilateral relations during the eight months of the 33rd year since the establishment of diplomatic relations (let me remind you that diplomatic relations between Turkmenistan and Great Britain were established on January 23, 1992):

“Eight months have passed intensively, and we are not going to stop. This is a clear statement from the leadership of my country. We see a desire to deepen relations from the Turkmen leadership as well. I wish our partners success in their noble activities,” the Ambassador concluded.

Vice Prime Minister Hojamyrat Geldimyradov made a response speech, conveying warm congratulations to His Majesty and the people of Great Britain on behalf of the Turkmen Government, noting the importance of this date as a symbol of continuity, the strength of traditions and the unity of the nation.

The Deputy Chairman of the Cabinet of Ministers of Turkmenistan emphasized that King Charles III embodies wise and restrained leadership, commitment to humanistic values ​​and care for the environment.

Speaking about bilateral relations, the Vice Prime Minister noted that "in recent years, our dialogue has been steadily developing both bilaterally and in international organizations."

Particular attention was paid to the activities of the Turkmen-British Trade and Industrial Council, "which serves as an effective platform for expanding business contacts, attracting investment and implementing specific joint projects."

Geldimyradov stressed the importance of regular meetings of the Council and expressed the Turkmen side's readiness for further participation, especially in the areas of energy, construction, logistics, digitalization and the agro-industrial complex.

The Deputy Prime Minister noted Turkmenistan's high appreciation of the UK's role in promoting the climate agenda, green technologies and cultural exchange, and also emphasized the attention that the country pays to the King's initiatives in ecology and support for young leaders - areas that are in line with Turkmenistan's national priorities.

Confidence was expressed in the further expansion of cooperation in trade, investment, education, healthcare and science, emphasizing that political stability and mutual respect will help strengthen the partnership.

In conclusion of his speech, the Deputy Prime Minister of the Turkmen government wished "His Majesty King Charles III good health, longevity and well-being, and the people of Great Britain - peace, harmony and prosperity."

…The King's birthday is not only an occasion for ceremonial parades and good wishes, but also to remember the role of the institution of monarchy in the history of the country.

The British monarchy is one of the oldest in the world. Its roots go back to the deep Middle Ages, when kings still had absolute power. But over time, the institution of royal power has evolved. Today, it performs, above all, representative and symbolic functions.

A monarch is not a politician, not a legislator, and not the head of government. But he (or she) is a living link between generations, a symbol of national unity and stability, a keeper of traditions and a moral compass. And this is the special, subtle, but important role of a modern monarch.

There have been many turning points in the history of Britain when the role of the monarchy was rethought. Thus, after the famous "Glorious Revolution" of 1688, the power of kings was seriously limited in favor of parliament, and the formation of a constitutional monarchy began - a form of government in which the monarch reigns, but does not rule.

The King (or Queen) formally approves laws and appoints the Prime Minister, but does so solely on the advice of Parliament. This is the essence of a constitutional monarchy.

However, even in a changing world, British monarchs have remained important figures. They have maintained the nation’s morale during wars, served as a support in times of crisis, and inspired by personal example. One such example is Queen Elizabeth II, whose long and dignified career on the throne has left a deep mark on the hearts of millions.

Charles III became King in 2022, following the death of his mother, Elizabeth II. His reign is a time of new challenges, but also new opportunities. As an active supporter of environmental protection, intercultural dialogue, and sustainable development, the King continues the tradition of serving the nation, giving it relevant features of the 21st century.

Charles III is a modern monarch: he is open to dialogue, strives for public benefit and at the same time carefully preserves the unique heritage of the British crown. Under his rule, the monarchy remains an important part of British identity, uniting the past, present and future.

For many Britons, the royal family is not only an element of the state structure, but also part of cultural and personal history. These are images on stamps and coins, holidays and ceremonies, a sense of pride and involvement. And for the rest of the world, it is a recognizable symbol of Great Britain, its soft power and aristocratic charm.

Interesting facts about Charles III

1. The oldest new monarch. Charles III ascended to the throne at the age of 73 – older than any other British monarch at the beginning of his reign.

2. The most “patient” heir. He was heir to the throne for more than 70 years – a record term in British history.

3. An environmentalist before it became fashionable. Back in the 1970s, Charles advocated for environmental protection, sustainable agriculture and organic products. He was one of the first, as a public figure, to talk about climate change – long before politicians and celebrities began to talk about it.

4. Architecture and organic farming are his passion. He founded Duchy Home Farm and is an active advocate for the preservation of historic buildings.

5. Educated and versatile. Charles III became the first Crown Prince with a university degree (Cambridge), and also studied archaeology, anthropology and history. He speaks not only English, but also French, German and Welsh.

6. He played in the theater and acted on television. In his youth, Charles took part in student plays and even voiced himself in the series Coronation Street.

7. A king with an artistic soul. Charles is fond of watercolors and paints landscapes himself. His works have even been exhibited in galleries and sold for charity.

8. Friendship with the East. Charles has repeatedly expressed an interest in Islam, Eastern philosophy and culture, for which he has received respect in the countries of the Middle East and South Asia.

9. He has honey in Buckingham Palace. Charles installed beehives in the gardens of the residence, and now the palace honey is used at receptions and charity events.

10. Modern communication style. His coronation in 2023 was the first such event to be widely broadcast on the Internet and social networks, including YouTube and TikTok. Already in the role of king, he began to actively use digital platforms to promote his initiatives and good deeds.

…In fairy tales, good always triumphs, and the heroes, having overcome all trials, live happily ever after. These are the feelings that filled the evening at the Ashgabat golf club. The occasion was truly fabulous: the birthday of His Majesty King Charles III.

Almost no one noticed how, with the live music of the orchestra, toasts in honor of the hero of the occasion and the smiles of the guests, the holiday came to an end.

Together with you remembered it-

Bekdurdy AMANSARYEV

Photo: author