Aktau, the Cultural Capital of the Turkic World for 2025, has become the meeting point of two ancient symbols of Turkic heritage – carpets and stone monuments. The 4th Conference of Turkic World Museums, organized by the Association of Museums of TURKSOY, took place from October 6 to 17, 2025, in Aktau. More than forty museum professionals from various Turkic countries participated in the event.
The main theme of this year’s program focused on stone monuments, reflecting the shared historical memory of the Turkic world. The information forum featured important discussions on the preservation, promotion, and interpretation of these silent witnesses of history, spanning from ancient times to the present day.
“Colors of the Turkic World” Brought Together in a Joint Carpet Exhibition
One of the highlights of the conference was the opening of the “United Exhibition of Turkic World Carpets”, held on October 16, 2025, at the Abish Kekilbay Historical and Regional Museum of Mangystau. The exhibition showcased carefully selected traditional carpets from TURKSOY member states – Azerbaijan, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Uzbekistan, Türkiye, Turkmenistan, the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus, and the Republic of Gagauzia. Each country presented a carpet that symbolized the distinctive motifs of its cultural identity, creating a visual celebration of unity and diversity.
Important Decisions of the TURKSOY Museums Association
The same day also marked the 4th meeting of the TURKSOY Museums Association, chaired by Professor Dr. Berik Abdygaliuly, President of the Association and Director of the National Museum of Kazakhstan. Several significant resolutions were adopted concerning the future of Turkic museology, including:
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The transfer of the Association’s presidency to Uzbekistan for the next term.
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The admission of the Hungarian National Museum as a coordinating member.
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The decision to hold the next meeting in Uzbekistan.
On behalf of TURKSOY Secretary General Sultan Raev, official membership certificates were presented to the new members – the Mangystau Historical Museum and the Hungarian National Museum.
This gathering once again underscored the Turkic world’s commitment to preserving and enriching its shared cultural heritage while serving as a productive platform for enhancing cooperation among museums.
