Serdar Berdimuhamedov Attends Opening of “Ancient Civilizations of Turkmenistan” Exhibition in Rome

Rome, The Gulf Observer: As part of his official visit to the Italian Republic, President of Turkmenistan Serdar Berdimuhamedov attended the opening ceremony of the archaeological exhibition “Ancient Civilizations of Turkmenistan” at the Capitoline Museum in Rome.

Upon arrival at the square in front of the museum, the head of state was warmly received by Rome Mayor Roberto Gualtieri. The ceremony commenced with a vibrant literary and musical performance by Turkmen cultural and artistic masters, reflecting the rich traditions and heritage of Turkmenistan.

In his opening remarks, Mayor Gualtieri welcomed President Berdimuhamedov and the distinguished guests, noting that the event held special significance as it took place on Capitoline Hill — a historic site central to Rome’s millennia-old legacy. He emphasized that the exhibition, which will remain open until April 2026, serves as an important cultural bridge linking the ancient heritage of Central Asia with the origins of European civilization.

Addressing the gathering, President Berdimuhamedov congratulated the attendees on the opening of the exhibition and expressed confidence that the ancient artifacts unearthed from Turkmen archaeological sites and preserved in national museums would attract great interest among Italian and international visitors.

The Turkmen leader highlighted that cultural cooperation forms a vital part of the dynamic relations between Turkmenistan and Italy. He noted that the two nations share a long-standing tradition of friendship and fruitful collaboration in the cultural and humanitarian spheres. The President underlined that such initiatives, including international exhibitions, play a crucial role in promoting mutual understanding and strengthening interstate relations.

President Berdimuhamedov also emphasized the special significance of the exhibition’s opening during the year marking the 30th anniversary of Turkmenistan’s permanent neutrality. He stressed that the principles of neutrality continue to guide Turkmenistan’s efforts in fostering global peace, friendship, and cultural cooperation.

The full text of President Serdar Berdimuhamedov’s speech at the ceremony is available on the website of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Turkmenistan at https://www.mfa.gov.tm/ru/articles/1706.

Concluding his address, President Berdimuhamedov extended his heartfelt congratulations to all participants and wished them good health and creative success. He then ceremoniously inaugurated the exhibition by cutting the symbolic ribbon.

The event also featured the signing of two important documents: a Memorandum of Understanding between the State Museum of the State Cultural Center of Turkmenistan and the Capitoline Museum of Cultural Heritage of Italy, and another between the Museum of Fine Arts of Turkmenistan named after Saparmurat Turkmenbashi the Great and the Capitoline Museum.

The “Ancient Civilizations of Turkmenistan” exhibition stands as a testament to the enduring partnership between Turkmenistan and Italy in the fields of archaeology and cultural heritage preservation, further deepening the bonds of friendship and mutual respect between the two nations.