On 17 June 2024, Ambassador of Turkmenistan to Belgium Sapar Palvanov presented a handmade carpet depicting the great Turkmen poet and philosopher Magtymguly Fragi to the World Customs Organization (WCO) Secretary General, Mr. Ian Saunders. The gift coincides with the of Magtymguly Fragi’s 300th anniversary.
The building of the World Customs Organization is a unique institution where cultural elements of the member countries are stored. Turkmenistan, being an active member of the organization, considered it necessary to contribute to this cultural gathering.
The Turkmen diplomat noted that the creation of the carpet, symbolizing the rich cultural heritage and artistic traditions of Turkmenistan, took four months and required the delicate work of skilled Turkmen women.
He emphasized that Magtymguly Fragi’s works promote values like friendship, peace, and good neighborliness, especially important in today’s world. The carpet is decorated with five different patterns indicating the provinces of Turkmenistan, with each pattern having its own unique history and cultural significance.
The WCO Secretary General expressed his deep appreciation for the gift, praising its exquisite craftsmanship and cultural importance. He noted that this carpet will really decorate the building of the organization and will certainly inspire visitors to study the work of the great poet and philosopher.
The Secretary General compared Magtymguly Fragi to William Shakespeare, recognizing him as an outstanding and influential personality, similar to Shakespeare in terms of cultural and literary significance.
The presentation of the carpet was an event that filled the cultural gap in the museum of the World Customs Organization.
At the end of the meeting, the parties expressed their readiness to strengthen cooperation between Turkmenistan and the WCO, and also noted the rich agenda of bilateral relations.