The Islamic World Educational, Scientific, and Cultural Organization (ICESCO) hosted, Today, Wednesday 18 December 2024, at its headquarters in Rabat, a ceremony to commemorate the 300th anniversary of the birth of the great Turkmen poet and thinker Magtymguly Fragi. The Event was organized in partnership with the International Organization of Turkic Culture (TURKSOY) and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Turkmenistan. The Celebration aimed to shed light on the cultural legacy of this great poet as part of ICESCO’s initiative to honor the icons of culture and heritage of the Islamic world.

In his opening address, Dr. Salim M. AlMalik, Director-General (DG) of ICESCO, emphasized that the work of Magtymguly Fragi, considered the founder of Turkmen literature, represents an outstanding model of classical literature and a rich legacy deeply connected to the teachings of Islam. He noted that ICESCO is proud to participate in honoring this cultural figure who contributed to enriching the civilization of the Islamic world. The Event aligns with ICESCO’s ongoing efforts to bring to light exceptional figures who have played a role in advancing the fields of science, culture, and the arts.

Dr. AlMalik also highlighted that TURKSOY’s declaration of 2024 as the Year of the Poet and Thinker Magtymguly Fragi is an international recognition of the cultural significance of this great poet’s legacy. He added that the collaboration between ICESCO and TURKSOY would include building knowledge platforms, conducting joint research, and launching cultural programs to strengthen ties among the nations of the Islamic world.

Mr. Sultan Raev, Secretary-General of TURKSOY, stated that Magtymguly Pyragy’s poems have transcended time and built bridges between cultures and civilizations through his profound understanding of Islamic morals and values.

Ms. Mahri Bashimova, Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs of Turkmenistan, stressed the importance of safeguarding national cultural heritage in an era of globalization and increased cultural exchange. She praised Fragi’s intellectual contributions as a national legacy that, through its uniqueness, has become an integral part of the global cultural library.

Before the ceremony’s opening session, Dr. AlMalik, accompanied by Mr. Raev, Ms. Bashimova, and other distinguished guests, toured an art exhibition accompanying the Event. The Exhibition showcased Turkmen heritage through textiles, handicrafts, renowned literary works by Pyragy, as well as artistic paintings and drawings reflecting the esteemed status of this legendary poet.

As part of the Event’s activities, a panel discussion titled “The Role of Magtymguly Fragi in Bridging Cultures” was held. The Session concluded with the screening of a documentary on the life and works of the Great Thinker, titled “The Journey of Magtymguly Fragi.”

In the closing remarks delivered by Ms. Chynar Rustamova, Ambassador Extraordinary and Executive Secretary of the Turkmenistan National Commission for UNESCO, and Mr. Anar Karimov, Head of Partnerships and International Cooperation at ICESCO, the importance of celebrating the legacy of the Great Turkmen Poet and Thinker Magtymguly Fragi as a symbol of Islamic cultural heritage was underscored.

The Ceremony concluded with a musical performance featuring Turkmen folkloric dances and traditional displays.