On the 9th of December, an event dedicated to Mother's Day was held at the Cultural centre of the Iranian Embassy in Ashgabat. The celebration was attended by teachers and students from the classroom of Cultural centre, their parents, Ashgabat residents interested in the ancient traditions of their neighbouring country, and representatives of public organisations and the media.
Distinguished guests included Iranian Ambassador to Turkmenistan Ali Mojtaba Rouzbehani, Iranian Government Press Secretary Fatemeh Mohajerani, Director of the Cultural Centre Abdulreza Abbas, and others. As the speakers emphasised, the main goal of the holiday is not only to introduce those present to rich culture of Iran but also to showcase the traditions of this day, which is a symbol of honour and respect for mothers and all women.
Distinguished guests particularly noted that in the Turkmen language, the word «mother» is a sacred symbol of respect and honour. Mothers and women hold a very high place in the ancient culture of Turkmenistan. The significant role of women in Iranian and Turkmen society was noted. Today, women occupy prominent positions in science and education, culture, and social spheres in both countries, and have significant opportunities to positively influence the development of society.
The diplomats emphasised that the Islamic Republic of Iran was one of the first countries to support neutrality of Turkmenistan and sincerely congratulated President Serdar Berdimuhamedov, as well as the National Leader of the Turkmen People, Hero Arkadag, and the entire friendly Turkmen people on this significant date – the 30th anniversary of permanent neutrality.
In Iran, Mother's Day is celebrated on the twentieth day of the month of Jum'ad al-Akhir. This date was chosen deliberately; it coincides with the birthday of Fatima, the daughter of the Prophet Muhammad, and therefore Iranians annually celebrate two significant women's holidays – Mother's Day and Women's Day. Fatima Zahra is revered as a model of motherhood and a role model, which explains the choice of this date.
The celebration took place in a warm and friendly atmosphere. Guests enjoyed a live music concert and poetry readings in Farsi. At the end of the evening, everyone in attendance was treated to traditional Iranian sweets.
