On April 30, Minister of Foreign Affairs of Turkmenistan Rashid Meredov met with TURKSOY Secretary General Sultan Rayev at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. The main topic of the talks was the implementation of the ambitious Joint Work Plan for 2026 and the integration of Turkmen art into the global Turkic context.

The visit of the TURKSOY head is timed to significant events — TURKSOY Opera Days and the 110th anniversary of the birth of the outstanding Turkmen composer Veli Mukhadov, which will take place on May 2-3. The organization actively promotes the achievements of Turkmen culture, presenting the legacy of our artists on the international stage.

During the meeting, the significance of the TURKSOY awards bestowed upon Turkmen cultural figures was emphasized. This recognition confirms the significant contribution of national artists to the development of art throughout the Turkic world.

The parties discussed in detail preparations for upcoming events, including the celebration of the 35th anniversary of Turkmenistan's independence. Sultan Rayev expressed gratitude for the invitation to participate in the anniversary celebrations, noting Ashgabat's special role in strengthening peace and mutual understanding between peoples.

Turkmenistan confirmed its readiness to further improve TURKSOY's activities, viewing the organization as a vital instrument of soft power and cultural- humanitarian rapprochement between states.