President Uzbekistan on State Visit to Turkmenistan – History in Making

Tazeen Akhtar

It is heartening to know by the supporters of cordial relations and close connectivity between the central Asian republics that President Uzbekistan will pay a state visit to Turkmenistan on Oct 20-21. Both countries have successfully solved their disputes of border demarcation and ethnic communities in their respective countries in the past.

No doubt it is history in making.   Both countries are moving forward to further strengthen the cooperation which can lead to an increase in the opportunities for cooperation and communication for the other countries of the regions as well.

President, Islam Karimov visited Turkmenistan in 2007. President Turkmenistan. Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov reciprocated by paying a state visit to Uzbekistan next year. This is the real spirit that all countries should adopt and implement in the true sense. Now President Shavkat is on a state visit to Turkmenistan. President Shavkat is the torch bearer of connectivity, dialogue, and cooperation between Central Asia and beyond. President Serdar Gurbangulyýewiç Berdimuhamedow like his father former President Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov is carrying the legacy of his father on neutrality and shared prosperity.

Important and central to note is the border trade agreement. We in Pakistan have recently signed agreements on the opening of border markets with Iran. Even Pakistan and Iran had security issues on joint borders for infiltration of anti-state elements and smuggling.

When I interviewed Ambassador Iran to Pakistan, we had the consensus that border markets will not only be helpful in controlling the smuggling but will be supportive in solving security issues as well. Similarly, the border trade between the two central Asian republics will certainly bring good results for the people of both countries.

The inauguration of Tashkent Park at Ashgabat is another milestone in developing brotherly feelings among the people of Turkmenistan for Uzbekistan. I have visited Ashgabat to cover an international conference. It is a very beautiful city. The government of Turkmenistan attaches great value to providing recreation facilities to its people. This park will be an attraction for the residents of Turkmen Capital city.