A telephone conversation took place today between President of Turkmenistan Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov and President of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan Mohammad Ashraf Ghani.

At the beginning of the conversation, the head of the neighboring state once again expressed condolences to the Turkmen leader over the untimely death of his father, Malikguly Berdimuhamedov, and conveyed words of sincere sympathy on behalf of the Afghan people, the State News Agency of Turkmenistan reports.

Thanking President Mohammad Ashraf Ghani for condolences and words of support, President Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov emphasized the fruitful nature of the Turkmen-Afghan relations based on the inviolable bonds of brotherhood and good-neighborliness, the principles of mutual respect and mutual assistance.

Continuing the conversation, the heads of Turkmenistan and Afghanistan praised the traditionally friendly interstate dialogue, which is successfully developing both in a bilateral and multilateral format.

As noted, our neighboring states effectively cooperate in various spheres of the economy, participate in the implementation of ambitious joint projects in such important areas as energy, transport and communications. The implementation of these large-scale infrastructure projects not only meets the interests of the two countries and peoples, but is also called upon to contribute to the progressive socio-economic development and progress of the entire region.

Having exchanged views on promising areas of cooperation, Presidents Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov and Mohammad Ashraf Ghani noted the presence of great potential for the development of trade and economic ties and the implementation of new joint projects.

Special attention in the structure of Turkmen-Afghan relations is invariably paid to the humanitarian component. At the same time, it was emphasized that the Turkmen people are in solidarity with the fraternal Afghan people in their striving for unity, a peaceful and prosperous life. Providing full support in the socio-economic and cultural revival of Afghanistan, Turkmenistan intends to continue to follow this good tradition of mutual assistance.