OREANDA-NEWS. November 1, 2008. President Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov gave the welcoming statement to participants of the Turkmenistan and World Cinematography International Documentary and Short Film Festival.

“Today the Turkmen people live the interesting, eventful life, build and create,” the statement says. “Our society has entered a new stage of its development. Citizens of independent Turkmenistan implement all new undertakings, greatest transformations are implemented by their minds and energy. That is reflected in the newly established economic and cultural ties with the near and remote neighbours. Therefore, when building the intergovernmental relations we attach particular significance to co-operation in not only political and economic but also cultural spheres.

“A major part of the feature and documentary films participated in the prestigious festivals and won the international prizes. Thais shows that Turkmen cinematography is on the path of development. The feature films aim to fulfill the major tasks of spiritual and moral revival of the nation, its history, culture, the age-old traditions of friendliness and humanism, preservation of human dignity.

“We are proud of the present achievements of Turkmen cinematography that made a worthy contribution to the treasure of world film art. The Resolute Step, Shukur Bagshi, Magtymguly, Mysteries of Mukam and other feature films became the classic works long time ago, they play the invaluable role of the singers of Turkmen soul, the propagandists of the national customs and traditions. The whole world admires the works created by the renowned Turkmen cinematographers – Alty Karliev, Baba Annanov, Artyk Jallyev, Ata Dovletov, Khommat Mulyuk…

“Having taken the road of development Turkmenistan cinematography must carry out the large-scale work to popularize the achievements of the Turkmen people in the third millennium on the basis of the rich cultural heritage of the people, the age-old national traditions. In this regard the significance of this international festival held in white-marble Ashgabat recognized as a pearl of Central Asia is inestimable. I believe many artistic discoveries will be made during three days of the festival. This festival will enhance the cultural ties, fraternal friendly relations among different countries and peoples.

“The Turkmenistan and World Cinematography International Documentary and Short Film Festival will serve as the bridge among different peoples and contribute profoundly to further development of the intergovernmental cultural ties in the region as well as all over the world. I would like to cordially congratulate you on opening the festival which is to be a remarkable event in the cultural life of the people of Turkmenistan. I would like to wish you good health and artistic achievements.”