Presidents Tokayev and Berdimuhamedov Unveil Monument to Abai in Ashgabat

Tokayev began by expressing his gratitude to Berdimuhamedov and the Turkmen people for honoring him with the jubilee medal “For the 300th Anniversary of Makhtumkuli Fragi.” He described this recognition as a symbol of mutual understanding and friendship between the two nations.

In his address, Tokayev emphasized that the monument’s inauguration signifies the special respect the Turkmen people hold for Kazakhstan. “Abai is an extraordinary figure of global importance. His works represent an invaluable legacy for all humanity. Monuments have been erected in honor of Abai in numerous cities worldwide. The great writer devoted his life to educating the people. He encouraged them to pursue knowledge and enlightenment,” Tokayev remarked, highlighting Abai’s themes of patriotism, hard work, humanism, kindness, and prudence. He noted that the monument’s unveiling is an important initiative to further strengthen the fraternal ties between Kazakhstan and Turkmenistan.

Tokayev also recalled that this year, a monument to the revered Turkmen thinker Makhtumkuli Fragi was unveiled in Astana, emphasizing the warmth with which he is regarded in Kazakhstan and the shared heritage of all Turkic peoples. “The works of Abai and Makhtumkuli are treasures for the entire Turkic world. It is our common responsibility to preserve and pass on this legacy to future generations. The poetry of these two great poets shows many connections. Our peoples are linked by common roots, history, language, and culture. This solid foundation has allowed us to build strong and harmonious relations, now developing steadily in a spirit of strategic partnership. My official visit to Turkmenistan today is a testament to this. I am confident that the monument to Abai will symbolize the friendship between Kazakhstan and Turkmenistan,” the President stated.

Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov emphasized the importance of preserving the legacies of great thinkers and poets who have made significant contributions to the history and culture of fraternal nations for future generations. “Today, in the beautiful park of our capital Ashgabat, we are solemnly unveiling a monument to the outstanding poet and thinker of the Kazakh people, Abai Kunanbayuly. I congratulate everyone on this significant occasion! Our peoples have greatly contributed to the world’s cultural and spiritual treasury. Therefore, it is crucial to study this priceless heritage, promote it actively, and develop international cooperation in this field,” he said.

The ceremony was attended by representatives of Turkmenistan’s creative intelligentsia and members of Kazakhstan’s official delegation. The event featured a performance by the dance group “Kalkynysh,” which presented a composition titled “Turkmen-Kazakh Friendship.”