Islamabad (TDI): In a collaborative effort led by the Embassy of Turkmenistan and the Institute of Peace and Diplomatic Studies (IPDS), the “Magtymguly Corner” was inaugurated at Allama Iqbal Open University (AIOU), commemorating the 300th birth anniversary of Turkmen poet Magtymguly Pyragy and the 50th anniversary of AIOU. Following the inauguration, an international conference commemorated the “300th Birth Anniversary of Turkmen Poet Magtymguly Pyragy and the Legacy of Dr. Allama Muhammad Iqbal.”
The event, hosted at AIOU’s newly established History Museum, aimed to honour Turkmen’s heritage and strengthen diplomatic and cultural relations between Pakistan and Turkmenistan. This corner and vision were made possible by the tireless efforts of Azeem Iqbal, a caligrapher and museum artist, and Muhammad Asif Noor, the Goodwill Ambassador of the AIOU History Museum.
Dr. Farhat Asif, President of IPDS, opened the event by emphasizing the significance of cross-cultural partnerships and the role of such collaborations in promoting peace and understanding. “This Magtymguly Corner reflects our dedication to bridging cultures and celebrates shared heritage, which remains a cornerstone of international relations,” she noted.
Welcoming the guests, Prof. Dr. Nasir Mahmood, Vice Chancellor of AIOU, highlighted the university’s role in fostering academic ties. He expressed pride in hosting the Magtymguly Corner, a testament to AIOU’s commitment to promoting cultural diplomacy and historical preservation.
H.E. Mr. Atadjan Movlamov, Ambassador of Turkmenistan to Pakistan, delivered a keynote address underscoring the strong historical ties between Turkmenistan and Pakistan. “Today, we celebrate not only a shared cultural legacy but also the deep-rooted friendship between our nations. Magtymguly Pyragy’s message of unity and dignity resonates profoundly in both societies,” he stated, expressing gratitude for Pakistan’s ongoing commitment to cultural exchange.
Dr. Serdar Atayev from Magtymguly Turkmen State University reflected on Pyragy’s literary contributions, underscoring the poet’s enduring influence on Turkmen identity and values. “Magtymguly’s works are a treasure trove of wisdom and humanity, transcending borders and generations,” he remarked.
Prof. Dr. Saleem Mazhar, Director General of the National Language Promotion Department, praised the collaborative initiative, stating that such events enrich both Pakistani and Turkmen cultural landscapes. Prof. Dr. Abdul Aziz Sahir, Dean of Social Sciences and Humanities at AIOU, added that the teachings of Pyragy and Iqbal carry universal themes of compassion and social justice.
In his address as Chief Guest, Mr. Hassan Nasir Jamy, Federal Secretary of the National Heritage & Cultural Division, applauded the establishment of the Magtymguly Corner, expressing hope that it would inspire further academic collaborations between Pakistan and Turkmenistan. He highlighted the critical role of such initiatives in advancing research and cultural exchanges, fostering a deeper understanding between nations.
This event, hosted by the Embassy of Turkmenistan and IPDS, in collaboration with Allama Iqbal Open University, exemplifies a shared commitment to honouring cultural heritage and promoting diplomatic ties through intellectual and artistic celebration.
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