Turkmen National Leader Calls for Stronger Islamic Cultural Cooperation at Kazan Forum
Kazan, The Gulf Observer: The National Leader of the Turkmen People and Chairman of the Halk Maslahaty of Turkmenistan, Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov, participated in the forum of the Organization of Islamic Cooperation held to mark the declaration of Kazan as the cultural capital of the Islamic world.
Addressing the forum, Berdimuhamedov expressed gratitude to the Rais of the Republic of Tatarstan of the Russian Federation, Rustam Minnikhanov, and the Russian side for inviting him to participate in the international events of “KazanForum 2026” and for the warm hospitality extended to the delegation.
He noted that Kazan has once again become a major platform for strengthening international economic cooperation and expanding cultural and humanitarian dialogue, highlighting the importance of the 15th session of the General Conference of the Islamic World Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization.
“We consider this meeting as a good opportunity to intensify multilateral dialogue in the cultural and humanitarian sphere, viewing it as an important factor in ensuring sustainable development, strengthening mutual understanding between peoples, and promoting a culture of peace,” Berdimuhamedov stated.
The Turkmen leader emphasized that Turkmenistan highly values cooperation with ISESCO and regards the organization as an important partner in implementing the country’s international humanitarian policy. He reaffirmed Turkmenistan’s commitment to expanding practical cooperation with the organization and supporting initiatives of mutual interest.
Berdimuhamedov revealed that in March 2026, Turkmenistan officially submitted a request for observer status in ISESCO, describing the move as an important milestone for enhancing the country’s international engagement in education, science and culture.
During the conference, Turkmenistan was officially granted observer status in ISESCO.
Highlighting the importance of preserving Islamic cultural heritage, Berdimuhamedov proposed the development of a long-term ISESCO strategy aimed at preserving and enriching the historical and cultural legacy of Islamic countries. He stressed the need to promote Islamic heritage through literature, journalism, cinema, virtual museums, galleries and other accessible online platforms.
The National Leader of the Turkmen People also proposed launching a large-scale initiative titled “Islamic Poetic Dialogue: Wisdom and Connection of the Ages,” aimed at introducing audiences worldwide to the rich poetic and philosophical heritage of the Islamic world.
As part of the initiative, Berdimuhamedov suggested compiling a “World Anthology of Islamic Poetry” featuring works of renowned poets, thinkers and philosophers associated with Islamic civilization and cultural values.
In addition, he announced Turkmenistan’s initiative to promote “Smart Cities Diplomacy in the Islamic World,” reaffirming the country’s commitment to peace, cultural diversity and sustainable development.
Berdimuhamedov emphasized that education, science and culture remain universal values capable of bringing nations and peoples closer together.
Meanwhile, Director-General of Islamic World Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization, Salim bin Mohammed Al-Malik, announced that the organization is considering declaring Ashgabat as the cultural capital of the Islamic world in 2028, adding that preliminary work on the initiative has already begun.
