In a high-level meeting held in Ashgabat on April 30, Turkmenistan's Minister of Foreign Affairs, Rashid Meredov, and the Secretary General of the International Organization of Turkic Culture (TURKSOY), Sultan Raev, discussed key aspects of bilateral collaboration. The primary focus of the talks was to coordinate joint cultural initiatives scheduled for 2026 and to evaluate the ongoing impact of Turkmenistan's participation in the organization’s strategic projects.

Minister Meredov highlighted the importance of Secretary General Raev's visit, which coincided with the TURKSOY Opera Days and the 110th-anniversary celebrations of the renowned Turkmen composer Veli Muhadov. The discussions emphasized the recognition of Turkmen cultural figures through special TURKSOY awards, showcasing the nation's significant contribution to the collective artistic heritage of the Turkic world. Such accolades serve as a testament to the thriving cultural diplomacy between Ashgabat and the international organization.

The participants reaffirmed that humanitarian and cultural dialogue is a vital tool for fostering peace and mutual understanding, not only among Turkic-speaking nations but also on a broader regional and global scale. The exchange of views also covered methods to modernize the organization’s activities to better meet contemporary cultural demands. Both sides expressed a shared commitment to promoting the historical and artistic identity of the region through innovative platforms.

Secretary General Sultan Raev expressed his gratitude for the invitation to attend the upcoming celebrations marking the 35th anniversary of Turkmenistan's Independence. He noted that the organization highly values its partnership with Turkmenistan. The meeting concluded with a mutual agreement to continue active cooperation, ensuring that upcoming international events further solidify the cultural bonds and professional ties between artists and scholars across the Turkic world.