On 2 July, a formal reception commemorating the 250th anniversary of the independence of the United States of America was held at the Ýyldyz Hotel in Ashgabat. The event brought together representatives of Turkmenistan’s government agencies, heads of diplomatic missions accredited in the country, representatives of international organizations, members of the business community, and the media.
Representing the Government of Turkmenistan as the guest of honor was Deputy Chairman of the Cabinet of Ministers and Minister of Foreign Affairs Rashid Meredov.
The official ceremony began with the presentation of the national flags by U.S. Embassy Marines, followed by the performance of the national anthems of both countries. Elizabeth Rood, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the United States to Turkmenistan, then delivered her welcoming remarks.
In her address, the diplomat expressed her sincere gratitude to President Serdar Berdimuhamedov and the National Leader of the Turkmen people, Chairman of the Halk Maslahaty, Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov, for their continued support and personal contribution to strengthening bilateral friendship.
"I am proud to represent the United States in Turkmenistan. It is a great honor to work with the Government and the people of this country to advance our shared values and promote the prosperity of our nations," said Ambassador Rood.
The Ambassador noted that U.S.–Turkmen relations had continued to develop dynamically over the past year. Landmark events included President Serdar Berdimuhamedov’s visit to Washington and his meeting with U.S. President Donald Trump, as well as National Leader of the Turkmen people Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov’s visit to Florida. In addition, Turkmenistan welcomed several senior officials from the Trump Administration. These high-level contacts, along with exchange programs, reflect the strengthening of bilateral ties. Today, the two countries are working jointly to expand trade, enhance cooperation in education and culture, and address regional and global security challenges.
Speaking on behalf of the Turkmen side, Foreign Minister Rashid Meredov stated that Turkmenistan highly values its relations with the United States and remains committed to further deepening cooperation across all key areas of the global, regional, and bilateral agenda.
The Foreign Minister of Turkmenistan emphasized that bilateral dialogue encompasses a broad range of areas, including politics, the economy, education, and culture. Particular emphasis was placed on cooperation within the framework of the United Nations. Rashid Meredov expressed gratitude to the U.S. side for its consistent support of international initiatives and resolutions proposed by Turkmenistan at the UN General Assembly. He also highlighted the active cooperation within the Central Asia–United States (C5+1) format, which, since its establishment in November 2015, has effectively promoted stronger economic ties and enhanced regional security.
"This year, we marked the 34th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between our two countries. The bilateral mechanisms created over these years—particularly the annual political consultations between the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Turkmenistan and the U.S. Department of State—have consistently demonstrated their effectiveness," stated Rashid Meredov.
Addressing trade and economic cooperation, the Minister highlighted Turkmenistan’s long-standing partnerships with leading American companies, including John Deere, Case, Caterpillar, General Electric, Boeing, Visa, Sikorsky, and others. It was noted that the untapped potential of bilateral economic relations offers significant opportunities for elevating cooperation to an even higher level.
In the cultural and humanitarian sphere, the Foreign Minister praised the successful implementation of numerous projects under the U.S. Ambassadors Fund for Cultural Preservation (AFCP). He also noted that the Government of Turkmenistan is currently participating in 16 educational programs implemented by the U.S. diplomatic mission.
Concluding his remarks, Rashid Meredov expressed his sincere appreciation to Ambassador Elizabeth Rood for her substantial personal contribution to the positive development of bilateral relations.
As a gesture of friendship, mutual respect, and commitment to a peaceful and prosperous future, the American side presented its Turkmen partners with a symbolic gift—a scale model of the United States Navy’s famous three-masted wooden frigate USS Constitution, better known by its legendary nickname, "Old Ironsides." The vessel earned this nickname during the War of 1812, when astonished observers witnessed enemy cannonballs seemingly bouncing off its exceptionally strong three-layer wooden hull. Undefeated in battle, the frigate has remained for more than two centuries a floating symbol of American strength, freedom, and resilience. Just as "Old Ironsides" successfully weathered the storms of history, the gift was intended to symbolize the enduring strength and reliability of the partnership between the United States and Turkmenistan.
Following the official ceremony, the reception continued with a festive program. Guests enjoyed themed photo zones showcasing the history and culture of the United States, sampled traditional American cuisine. The Ashga-Brass ensemble provided the musical entertainment of the evening.
