Hero-Arkadag Meets with Prince Albert II of Monaco

National Leader of the Turkmen People and Chairman of the Halk Maslahaty of Turkmenistan, Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov, met with Prince Albert II of Monaco during his visit to the Principality of Monaco on January 20. This visit by Hero-Arkadag, taking place in the International Year of Peace and Trust, holds significant importance in strengthening intergovernmental dialogue. Diplomatic relations between Turkmenistan and Monaco were established in 2015. This year, marking the 30th anniversary of Turkmenistan's neutrality, also celebrates the 10th anniversary of these relations. Over the years, Monaco has consistently supported Turkmenistan’s initiatives at the United Nations aimed at global peace and sustainable development. Upon arriving at the Prince's Palace, the National Leader of the Turkmen People was welcomed in an official ceremony. A joint photograph was taken in the Hall of Honor with Hero-Arkadag Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov, Prince Albert II, and Princess Stéphanie of Monaco. This was followed by a bilateral meeting in a narrow format. Prince Albert II warmly welcomed Hero-Arkadag and expressed gratitude for the invitation to visit Monaco. He emphasized Turkmenistan's proactive role in advancing global agendas, which has been key to fostering mutually beneficial interstate dialogue. The discussions covered prospects for cooperation and current international issues. Both sides reaffirmed their commitment to expanding constructive partnerships, including within esteemed organizations. Cultural, sports, and tourism exchanges were highlighted as areas for enhanced collaboration, with special attention given to strengthening ties in the circus arts. Prince Albert II noted the growing global interest in Turkmenistan as a tourist destination. He expressed confidence that Monaco's achievements in tourism could facilitate targeted cooperation and the exchange of valuable expertise. Both leaders emphasized the potential for elevating bilateral relations to a qualitatively new level, aligned with modern needs and mutual interests. In a broader meeting with delegations from both nations, Prince Albert II reiterated his appreciation for the invitation and underlined the significance of the visit in strengthening bilateral ties. Hero-Arkadag expressed gratitude for the hospitality extended to the Turkmen delegation and conveyed greetings from President Serdar Berdimuhamedov. He fondly recalled his constructive meeting with Prince Albert II at the World Water Forum in South Korea in April 2015, which laid the foundation for establishing diplomatic relations later that year. During the discussions, both sides acknowledged opportunities to deepen cooperation in various sectors, including culture, sports, and environmental conservation. The importance of leveraging Monaco's "green" initiatives and expertise in marine conservation was underscored. Hero-Arkadag also highlighted Turkmenistan's readiness to explore collaboration on global climate issues. The leaders also discussed potential partnerships between Monaco’s Princess Grace Foundation and Turkmenistan's charitable foundation for vulnerable children. Economic, business, and space exploration were identified as additional areas for cooperation. Hero-Arkadag noted Turkmenistan's efforts in constructing a second artificial satellite and expressed interest in continuing space-related collaboration with Monaco. Hero-Arkadag praised Monaco for its cultural contributions, mentioning the participation of the Turkmen national equestrian group "Galkynyş" at the Monte Carlo International Circus Festival. The event showcased the dynamic cultural ties between the two nations. In sports, both leaders acknowledged their nations' achievements and expressed a desire to consolidate efforts in promoting international cooperation in this field. The meeting concluded with an exchange of gifts, symbolizing a new phase of humanitarian dialogue and mutual respect for cultural heritage. Later, Hero-Arkadag visited the Oceanographic Museum of Monaco, where he was warmly welcomed. He learned about the museum’s history, founded in 1910 by Prince Albert I, and its contributions to oceanography. The visit highlighted the shared commitment of Turkmenistan and Monaco to environmental conservation and sustainable development. Hero-Arkadag reiterated Turkmenistan's readiness to expand international partnerships in these areas, emphasizing the preservation of the Caspian Sea's unique ecosystem. In his concluding remarks, Hero-Arkadag invited Prince Albert II to attend a forum in Ashgabat dedicated to the International Year of Peace and Trust and the 30th anniversary of Turkmenistan's neutrality, expressing hope for continued fruitful collaboration between the two nations. Source: The State News Agency of Turkmenistan