Speaking at an international conference in Ashgabat commemorating the 300th birthday anniversary of renowned Turkmen poet Magtymguly Pyragy, Pezeshkian praised the poet’s contributions to the Turkmen language and literature, drawing parallels with the impact of Persian poet Ferdowsi on the Persian language.
Pezeshkian noted that the literary works of Magtymguly Pyragy, which encompass moral, political, social, and cultural themes, serve as a manifestation of the poet’s emphasis on spirituality, morality, justice, and freedom.
He added that distancing oneself from spirituality has created numerous problems in the contemporary world.
The Iranian President expressed hope that strengthening cultural cooperation and holding similar ceremonies would facilitate the introduction of “shared literary treasures”, underlining the importance of cultural exchange in promoting mutual understanding and peace.
Pezeshkian also highlighted the long-standing amicable relations and friendship between Iran and Turkmenistan, which he described as “constructive” and based on mutual interests.
He emphasized that the two nations have a growing and balanced trend in all fields, despite having diverse languages and cultures.
Pezeshkian pointed out that the cultural heritage of Iran and Turkmenistan serves as a foundation for peace and sustainable development, showcasing the unique aspects of knowledge and ethics in Eastern literature.
He emphasized that the cultural structure of the region, which encompasses various ethnic groups and languages, has been shaped by a shared cultural foundation, resulting in similarities in arts, literature, and culture.
Pezeshkian explained that the vast geographical area, which includes Iran and Turkmenistan, has been home to people living in peace and harmony, despite their diversity in ethnicity and language.
The Iranian President praised the role of literary figures, including Ferdowsi, Rudaki, Saadi, and Khayyam, in introducing the rich culture of the East, and hailed Magtymguly Pyragy as a champion of Turkmen culture and language.
He acknowledged that the poet’s works have had a profound impact on the growth of valuable human concepts and have enriched the literary heritage of the region.
Pezeshkian emphasized that the exchange of ideas and cultural interactions between human groups have taken place outside of government control and have transcended borders.
He noted that the works of great poets and writers have played a significant role in introducing the rich culture of the East, and that Magtymguly Pyragy’s poetry has been a “shining example” of this cultural phenomenon.
The Iranian President also acknowledged that many of the reasons for the endurance of Iranian customs, traditions, and languages are due to the efforts of great individuals who have made sacrifices for their preservation.
He noted that the Persian language owes a debt to great poets such as Ferdowsi, just as the Turkmen language and literature owe a debt to poets and writers such as Magtymguly Pyragy.
Pezeshkian concluded by emphasizing the importance of cultural exchange and the need to recognize the shared cultural foundation of the region, which has been shaped by the interactions of various ethnic groups and languages over time.