Journey to the Ancestral Homeland: Turkmenistan and Türkiye Strengthen Cultural Bridges

The “TurkmenTravel-2026” international forum held in Ashgabat has become more than just a tourism conference; it has turned into an important platform for restoring historical ties between brotherly nations. The speech by Nadir Alpaslan, Deputy Minister of Culture and Tourism of the Republic of Türkiye, clarified the strategic goals in this direction. - Historical Unity: Relations between the two countries are based on a common history, language, and culture. Nadir Alpaslan emphasized that Turkmenistan is the "ancestral homeland" for the Turkish people. - Diplomacy Through Tourism: Tourism was characterized not only as an economic sector but also as a diplomatic tool that helps nations get to know each other more closely. - Global Experience: Türkiye ranks 4th in the world in terms of tourist arrivals. Having earned more than 65 billion dollars from this sector last year, the Turkish side expressed its readiness to share its rich experience and modern technologies with Turkmenistan. Restoration of the New Silk Road One of the most interesting events of the forum was the news about new projects to be implemented within the framework of the Organization of Turkic States (OTS). - It is planned to create cultural and religious tourism routes along historical paths stretching from Merv to Konya. - Strategic research has begun to restore the ancient trade route with a new context. This will serve to increase economic and tourism activity in the region. Nadir Alpaslan's speech was evidence that the relations between Türkiye and Turkmenistan are based not only on official documents but also on true heartfelt bond. This cooperation will be the main pillar of sustainable development and cultural revival in the region in the future.