President Ram Nath Kovind extended his wishes for peace, progress, and prosperity to the people of Turkmenistan during a banquet hosted by President Serdar Berdimuhamedov. Kovind expressed gratitude for the warm welcome and highlighted the significance of his historic visit to Ashgabat as the first-ever by a President of India to Turkmenistan. He commended the beauty of the “white marble city.”

Congratulating President Berdimuhamedov on his election at a young age, Kovind acknowledged Turkmenistan’s growth under the leadership of President Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov. He emphasized the enduring historical and cultural ties between the two countries, citing examples such as the relics of ‘Soma’ drink and the Turkman Gate in Delhi.

President Kovind praised the fluency in Hindi among Turkmeni nationals and commended the work of the Indian Council for Cultural Relations (ICCR) and Indian Technical and Economic Cooperation (ITEC). He expressed pride in Turkmen people’s admiration for Indian films, dance, music, Yoga, and Ayurveda.

During the visit, India and Turkmenistan signed agreements in financial intelligence and disaster management. Kovind and Berdimuhamedov discussed expanding bilateral trade and energy cooperation, emphasizing the importance of the International North South Transport Corridor (INSTC) and the Ashgabat Agreement.

Kovind highlighted Turkmenistan’s strategic location and natural resources, suggesting that the Chabahar Port in Iran could enhance connectivity between Central and South Asia. He applauded Turkmenistan’s efforts to promote Yoga and expressed India’s readiness to partner in Turkmenistan’s development.

In his banquet address, Kovind conveyed warm wishes for President Serdar Berdimuhamedov’s health and success, the well-being of the Turkmenistan people, and the enduring partnership between India and Turkmenistan. The visit underscores the historical and civilizational linkages, with India considering Turkmenistan as part of its extended neighborhood. Turkmenistan is a crucial partner in the India-Central Asia Summit framework.