A large-scale exhibition of carpets and carpet products, as well as the 26th Meeting of the World Association of Connoisseurs of Turkmen Carpets, was held in the capital of Turkmenistan. Traditionally, these landmark events are dedicated to the Turkmen Carpet Day, which is celebrated annually on the last Sunday of May.
The celebrations, bringing together professionals and admirers of this unique craft, highlighted the enduring value of this national treasure. The guest of honor was Sultan Raev, Secretary General of the International Organization of Turkic Culture (TURKSOY). Speaking with a correspondent from “GA,” he highly praised Turkmenistan’s contribution to preserving the world’s cultural heritage.
The head of TURKSOY particularly emphasized the importance of remaining true to one’s roots in an era of rapid technological advancement. In his view, in a world shaped by scientific and technological achievements and artificial intelligence, people must preserve their inner world, culture, and individuality.
“Artificial intelligence and other new technologies cannot serve as an alternative to folk art. Folk art is a living, breathing form of creativity, unlike something ‘plastic’ art. That is why Turkmenistan is a special land inhabited by a special people. Here, traditional craftsmanship is sincerely valued and passed down from generation to generation as a key symbol of a unique national identity,” stressed S. Raev.
The TURKSOY Secretary General also noted that the Turkmen carpet is far more than a decorative item or a handicraft product.
“A handmade carpet is part of the philosophy, history, worldview, and national aesthetics of the Turkmen people. The age of digitalization requires a strong alternative, and traditional craftsmanship is capable of fulfilling this role by preserving a unique cultural code for the entire Turkic world,” said S. Raev.
As part of the celebrations, S. Raev expressed gratitude on behalf of TURKSOY to the State Association “Türkmenhaly” and the country’s outstanding carpet weavers. He highlighted their exceptional contributions to the development and advancement of this ancient craft under modern conditions.
“Our shared history and culture are sustained by such skilled Turkmen craftswomen, who create brilliant works of art with their hands, hearts, and minds—works that inspire admiration throughout the world,” stated the head of the international organization.
In recognition of this important mission, the TURKSOY Secretary General presented a special diploma to the State Association “Türkmenhaly” and certificates of appreciation to the country’s finest carpet weavers.
