An Example of Patriotism and Courage

This year, declared the "International Year of Peace and Trust" by the initiative of our country and a corresponding resolution of the United Nations, marks the 80th anniversary of the Victory in the Great Patriotic War of 1941–1945. This is a vivid testament to the deep respect for the heroes who exemplified sincere service to the Motherland, as well as the unwavering commitment of the Turkmen people to peace, humanism, and creation.

The Victory in the Great Patriotic War is the result of the tireless efforts of peace-loving peoples of the world, including the Turkmen people, who labored day and night without rest. The great faith in victory united thousands of Turkmenistanis with representatives of other fraternal nations. Turkmen warriors demonstrated courage, bravery, and fearlessness on the battlefields, sacrificing themselves for the sake of victory. Among them was Berdimuhamet Annayev, the father of the National Leader of the Turkmen people, Hero-Arkadag, and the grandfather of our esteemed President. His life path has become, in the new historical era, a great example of patriotism and loyalty to military and civic duty for the youth.

As is known, in 2020, during events dedicated to the 75th anniversary of the Victory in the Great Patriotic War, the battle flag of the 748th Rifle Regiment of the 206th Rifle Division of the 2nd Ukrainian Front was brought from Russia to Turkmenistan. Under this banner, the fearless warrior Berdimuhamet Annayev fought. For his personal courage, bravery, and fearlessness in battles for the Motherland, as well as for his impeccable fulfillment of military duty during the war, Berdimuhamet Annayev was awarded the high state honor of the Russian Federation—the medal "For Courage."

It is worth noting that Akhal-Teke horses, a national pride and treasure of the Turkmen people, have been loyal companions and close allies of courageous Turkmen warriors for centuries. During the Second World War, the 97th and 98th Turkmen Cavalry Divisions were formed, whose soldiers participated in the fiercest battles, showcasing outstanding examples of heroism. It is with pride that we note that thousands of our compatriots were awarded orders and medals, and more than a hundred Turkmenistanis received the esteemed title of "Hero."

Despite the 80 years that have passed, the heroic history of those years and the pride in our compatriots will forever remain in our hearts. The memories of the glory of our ancestors, who courageously defended the freedom and independence of the Motherland, are inscribed in golden letters in our history. Their names are immortalized in the publications "Memory" and "Glory" dedicated to the feats of Turkmenistan's in the Great Patriotic War. Honoring the heroes who bravely defended their native land is one of the ancient traditions of the Turkmen people, passed down through the centuries.

Therefore, in our country, veterans of the 1941–1945 war are surrounded by special attention and care from the state. Ensuring a decent standard of living for war veterans, home front workers, and widows is one of the priority directions of Turkmenistan’s state policy. Social benefits are created for them, and all necessary conditions are provided. Every year, in honor of the Great Victory, war veterans and widows receive monetary awards and gifts on behalf of our esteemed President.

Our Hero-Arkadagly Serdar emphasizes: "We advocate for the expansion of friendly and fraternal relations with the states of the world, comprehensive support for sustainable development, and actively participate in developing positive solutions to global issues." In this regard, the policy aimed at strengthening peace, universal security, and stability in the era of the Revival of the New Era of the Powerful State ensures the high international prestige of Independent, Permanently Neutral Turkmenistan.

The declaration of 2025 as the "International Year of Peace and Trust" on the initiative of our country is a clear confirmation that the principles of peace, friendship, and trust, rooted in millennia, are recognized worldwide. Highly valuing the unparalleled courage of our brave ancestors, we wish our Hero-Arkadag and Hero-Arkadagly Serdar good health, long life, and may their great deeds for the benefit of the people and the country always be crowned with success!