International Experience — the Foundation of Our Professional Excellence
In todays world, the steady expansion of international relations and the strengthening of friendly and mutually beneficial cooperation among states have further increased the importance of the diplomatic service. In this regard, it is particularly important for young professionals pursuing education in this field to consolidate their theoretical knowledge through practical experience and gain first-hand insight into the work of diplomatic missions. From this perspective, undertaking a twelve-week professional internship at the Consulate General of Turkmenistan in Mashhad, Islamic Republic of Iran, has been a valuable experience of great significance to my professional development.
The Consulate General of Turkmenistan in the Islamic Republic of Iran plays an important role in fostering friendly relations between the two countries, protecting the rights and legitimate interests of Turkmen citizens, and providing consular services. The activities of consular institutions are based on the principles and norms of international law, the national legislation of Turkmenistan, and international treaties.
During the internship, we have the opportunity to combine the theoretical knowledge acquired at our higher education institution in the field of international law with practical experience. We also become familiar with the main areas of consular service, the handling of diplomatic documents, official correspondence, and the observance of diplomatic protocol and etiquette in international relations. Furthermore, this internship helps us gain a deeper understanding of the practical aspects of international legal relations between states, study the legal foundations of consular activities, and enhance our professional skills. In particular, it enables us to appreciate more fully the importance of the work carried out to protect the rights and legitimate interests of Turkmen citizens abroad.
Relations between Turkmenistan and the Islamic Republic of Iran, founded on the principles of good-neighbourliness, friendship, and mutual respect, continue to develop steadily across various fields. The activities of the diplomatic and consular missions of both countries play an important role in further strengthening these relations.
In my view, one of the most important outcomes of the professional internship is the development of a sense of responsibility, independent thinking and analytical skills, as well as a sound understanding of official administrative procedures in future professionals. Moreover, becoming acquainted with the social and cultural characteristics of a foreign country provides an opportunity to better understand the importance of mutual understanding and intercultural dialogue in international relations.
Overall, we regard the twelve-week professional internship at the Consulate General of Turkmenistan in Mashhad as an important milestone in our future professional careers. This experience is a valuable learning opportunity that enables us to broaden our knowledge of international law, gain a deeper understanding of the specific nature of diplomatic service, and prepare ourselves to become qualified professionals capable of making a worthy contribution to the development of our countries foreign policy.
The creation of such excellent opportunities for us to enhance our professional knowledge is a reflection of the great confidence that Hero-Arkadag and the Esteemed President place in young people, as well as their dedicated efforts at the state level. May the National Leader, who is implementing great initiatives in this new historical era, and Arkadagly Hero Serdar enjoy sound health and continued well-being!
Nursahet JOMARTOV,
the 5th-year student Faculty of International Law
of the Institute of International Relations
of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Turkmenistan