PRESENTATION COMPETITION ENTITLED “CULTURAL DIPLOMACY – A BRIDGE OF FRIENDSHIP”
On May 30, 2026, the UNESCO Club “Culture of Peace” of the Institute of International Relations of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Turkmenistan organized a presentation competition entitled “Cultural Diplomacy – a Bridge of Friendship” among its members. The event aimed to enhance the creative and intellectual capacities of students, as well as to foster their interest in international cultural relations. This initiative was dedicated to the World Day for Cultural Diversity for Dialogue and Development.
As is well known, following UNESCO’s Universal Declaration on Cultural Diversity in 2001 and a special UN General Assembly Resolution, May 21 has been celebrated globally since 2002 as the World Day for Cultural Diversity for Dialogue and Development. This international day plays a vital role in promoting mutual understanding, peace and sustainable development worldwide. Cultural diversity is more than just shared heritage, it is a powerful tool that brings nations together and builds trust-based dialogue. Accordingly, the competition aimed to highlight how cultural diplomacy can build peace, while helping future diplomats sharpen their public speaking skills.
During the competition, club members from various faculties delivered engaging speeches and modern presentations in several world languages. Notably, Mergen Geldimyradov (Faculty of International Relations), Vepa Myradov (Faculty of International Law), Medine Jeyhunova (Faculty of International Economic Relations) and Bashim Permankuliyev (Faculty of International Journalism) demonstrated exceptional commitment and delivered highly impactful presentations.
In conclusion, the participants underscored the significant role of cultural diversity, trust-based dialogue and cultural-humanitarian relations in shaping a peaceful future, highlighting the immense responsibility of youth and emerging professionals in this endeavor. At the close of the event, the participants expressed their profound gratitude to the National Leader of the Turkmen people, Hero-Arkadag and to the Esteemed President, Arkadagly Hero Serdar for the extensive opportunities and continuous support provided to the youth to acquire modern education.
Aylar JYTDANOVA,
the 1st-year student of the Faculty of International Relations
of the Institute of International Relations
of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Turkmenistan