Russian President Vladimir Putin took part in the international forum “The Interconnection of Times and Civilizations – the Basis of Peace and Development”, held in Ashgabat and dedicated to the 300th anniversary of the birth of the Turkmen thinker, philosopher and poet Magtymguly Fragi, Turkmenportal reports.

In his speech, the Russian leader emphasized the relevance of Magtymguly's creative legacy in the modern world. Putin noted that Magtymguly Fragi is rightfully considered a great humanist and the founder of Turkmen poetry and literature. The Russian President emphasized Magtymguly's unique poetic style, his ability to express thoughts briefly, but succinctly and aphoristically. Many of the poet's sayings have become catchphrases, proverbs and sayings.

In his speech, Vladimir Putin paid special attention to the role of Magtymguly's works during the Great Patriotic War of 1941-1945, when relatives quoted the poet's poems in letters to Turkmen soldiers at the front, trying to instill in them courage and bravery.

The Russian president also spoke about Magtymguly's connection to Russia, mentioning that the poet lived for a long time near Astrakhan, where the Turkmen diaspora still lives. Putin noted the opening of a school named after Magtymguly in the village of Funtovo in 2019, the installation of a monument to the poet in Astrakhan, and the ceremonial unveiling of his bust in Moscow in September of this year.

The Russian President noted that Magtymguly’s ideas about justice, equality, friendship and good-neighborliness between states and nations are especially in demand today, when the world is facing unprecedented threats and conflicts.

In conclusion of his speech, the Russian leader thanked the leadership of Turkmenistan for its contribution to maintaining peace and stability in the region, as well as for expanding multifaceted cooperation and partnership.

After his speech, President of Turkmenistan Serdar Berdimuhamedov announced the decision to award Vladimir Putin with the Magtymguly Fragi Jubilee Medal, calling it a symbol of strong friendship between the peoples of the two countries.