OREANDA-NEWS. September 2, 2010. In accordance with the Order of President of Turkmenistan Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov 1,000 tons of flour was sent to Afghanistan last week. This act of goodwill proves Turkmenistan’s commitment to the ideals of peace and humanism that underlie the mentality of the Turkmen nation. The caravan of trucks with humanitarian aid arrived to Afghanistan on August 31.

Following the centuries-old traditions of good neighbourliness, humanity and mutual assistance, from the first days of independence Turkmenistan provides support and assistance to Afghanistan in reviving a peaceful life and fostering social and economic development of this country. Also, Turkmenistan actively contributes to the efforts of the international community to achieve security and stability in friendly neighbouring Afghanistan.

Upon arriving in the neighbouring country, the first caravan headed for Turgundi town where the welcome ceremony with the participation of the high-ranking officials of the Herat Velayat administration and other officials, local people and representatives of the Turkmen diaspora residing in the border regions of Afghanistan was arranged on this occasion.

Greeting hearty the Turkmen delegation, the ceremony participants expressed deep gratitude to President Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov and the people of Turkmenistan for providing substantial support. They noted that the people of Afghanistan highly evaluated the constructive foreign policy strategy of neutral Turkmenistan that endeavoured to place its peacemaking potential at the service of humanity.

The second caravan with humanitarian goods arrived in Mazar-e Sharif in Balh Velayat. Local population welcomed cordially envoys of Turkmenistan. The Deputy Velayat Khyakim and other local officials greeted the Turkmen delegation at the gates of the city. In Mazar-e Sharif the Balh Velayat Khyakim and local people solemnly greeted the humanitarian caravan. The representatives of Gunduz and Baglan Provinces had arrived to Mazar-e Sharif to receive flour for their cities.

During the ceremony the Balh Velayat Khyakim noted that the people of Afghanistan highly valued this humanitarian action and expressed deep gratitude to the people and President of Turkmenistan for fraternal assistance and support. It is symbolic that this action has taken place in the holy month of Ramazan, the month of moral purification, spiritual renovation and good hopes. The Balh Velayat Khyakim said that flour would be distributed among regions in need. Bread baked from Turkmen flour will symbolize the indissoluble ties of friendship and fraternity between the two neighbouring peoples. Sadaqa will be given in honour of this event. Prayers for the prosperity of Turkmenistan and for the good health and long life for the Turkmen leader Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov will be offered up.

The caravan with humanitarian aid will head for Samangan Velayat where the cordial welcome will be extended for envoys of Turkmenistan.