Tashkent, Uzbekistan (UzDaily.com) — Following Uzbek-Turkmen negotiations in Samarkand, a solemn ceremony was held to present Gurbanguly Berdymukhammedov, the National Leader of the Turkmen People and Chairman of the Halk Maslahaty of Turkmenistan, with the "Oliy Darajali Dostlik" order — the highest state award of the Republic of Uzbekistan.

President Shavkat Mirziyoyev emphasized that the award was presented for Berdymukhammedov's outstanding contribution to strengthening the friendship, good-neighborliness, and strategic partnership between Uzbekistan and Turkmenistan. He also highlighted the Turkmen leader's role in the sustainable development of his country's economy, the improvement of living standards, and the promotion of international initiatives, including the declaration of 2025 as the Year of Peace and Trust.

"Thanks to your personal support, in 2017, the solid foundations of our countries' strategic partnership were laid," noted the President of Uzbekistan.

The enhancement of intergovernmental, interparliamentary, regional, and humanitarian ties was particularly emphasized. In recent years, trade turnover has grown exponentially, exceeding US$1 billion. Notable examples of cultural exchange include Uzbek-language publications of Magtymguly’s works and a joint film presented at an international film festival in Ashgabat.

The award ceremony symbolized the recognition of Gurbanguly Berdymukhammedov's achievements as a statesman and the architect of modern Turkmenistan.