On September 4, Tashkent Park, which was opened in the capital of Turkmenistan to commemorate Turkmen-Uzbek friendship and good-neighborly relations, hosted a large-scale festive event. A solemn reception was held there to mark the 35th anniversary of the independence of the Republic of Uzbekistan. The event was attended by representatives of the diplomatic corps, government agencies, as well as business and creative circles.
The festive atmosphere was already evident at the entrance, where guests were welcomed by a traditional musical ensemble performing national compositions on the karnay, accompanied by the rhythmic sound of hand drums. An exhibition of decorative and applied arts was organized in the park, featuring examples of handicrafts, decorative ceramics, and Uzbek national fabrics adorned with traditional ornaments.
The celebration was opened by Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Republic of Uzbekistan to Turkmenistan Ravshanbek Alimov. In his speech, the diplomat emphasized that independence is the highest value and the fundamental basis for the independent development of a nation. Commenting on the past 35 years, the head of the diplomatic mission highlighted the large-scale reforms being implemented under the leadership of President Shavkat Mirziyoyev within the framework of the “New Uzbekistan” concept, in which the protection of human rights and dignity is a priority.
The Ambassador also emphasized the strategic nature of relations with Turkmenistan and the strengthening of an atmosphere of trust in Central Asia. As was noted, bilateral trade turnover between the two countries has already exceeded USD 1.2 billion, with the prospect of reaching USD 2 billion.
“Thanks to the open and trusting dialogue between the leaders of our countries — the President of the Republic of Uzbekistan, Shavkat Mirziyoyev, the President of Turkmenistan, Serdar Berdimuhamedov, and the National Leader of the Turkmen people, Chairman of the Halk Maslahaty of Turkmenistan, Gurbanguly Myalikgulyyevich Berdimuhamedov — Uzbek-Turkmen cooperation is reaching a qualitatively new level in the political, trade and economic, transport, and cultural-humanitarian spheres,” noted the diplomat.
On behalf of the Government of Turkmenistan, Deputy Chairman of the Cabinet of Ministers Hojamyrat Geldimyradov congratulated the brotherly people of Uzbekistan on the anniversary of independence. In his remarks, the Deputy Prime Minister highlighted the strong momentum in economic cooperation: at the end of 2025, bilateral trade increased by nearly 60%, while over the first seven months of the current year it grew by a further 18%, reaching approximately USD 800 million.
H. Geldimyradov emphasized that Uzbekistan firmly maintains fourth place in Turkmenistan’s foreign trade turnover. The launch of the Shavat–Dashoguz cross-border trade zone and the activities of the Business Council have become important factors in intensifying interregional cooperation.
“At present, Turkmen-Uzbek relations are characterized by a high level of mutual trust, good-neighborliness, and effective cooperation. Regular high-level meetings and negotiations provide a powerful impetus to the development of bilateral ties, make it possible to identify promising areas of cooperation, and ensure the consistent implementation of joint initiatives that serve the long-term interests of the two friendly states and peoples. At the same time, the cultural heritage of the Turkmen and Uzbek peoples is an integral part of the rich history of Central Asia. We are united by common traditions, spiritual values, and a commitment to national art,” emphasized the Deputy Prime Minister.
The program continued with a festive concert, during which renowned artists performed popular pop songs as well as classical and folk compositions. The reception concluded with a traditional dastarkhan, where the main treat was fragrant Uzbek pilaf.
