Health, Inspiration, Friendship
The motto of Ashgabat 2017 is – Health, Inspiration, Friendship.
It is not just a combination of three attractive words. It is essence of the yesterday, today and tomorrow of Turkmenistan, a Turkmenistan which is simultaneously unique and a part of the region and the world.
Turkmenistan is hosting the Ashgabat 2017 – the V Asian Indoor and Martial Arts Games – starting 17 September 2017. It is a mega event by all counts but it is more than just the prestige of hosting the Games that is at play here.
The decision to host the Games is anchored in how Turkmenistan aspires to shape its destiny and define its role in the international arena.
Of the three elements of the motto, Inspiration is the central pillar.
Inspiration comes from role models and President Berdymuhamedov, in his approach of leading from the front, is setting examples for the youth.
This was evident Tuesday when the Turkmen president visited three separate sites in Ashgabat: the Olympic Village, the new office complex for the political parties and public sector organizations and the new residential district with cottages and hi-rise buildings.
In each, he praised the good work, pointed out the ways for improvement and by his words and body language, inspired the people right down to the grassroots level to work in unity and harmony.
In fact, the other two elements – health and friendship – will not be achievable without inspiration.
With little more than 50 days to go for Ashgabat 2017, it is important to underline that Health, Inspiration, Friendship is not just a motto for the Games. It is the motto for life.
