2002 Press Releases
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| Ambassador Kennedy and Chairman of Mejlis of Turkmenistan Mr. Hallyev cutting the ceremonial cake. |
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| Ambassador Kennedy share the moment with her son Patrick and the Embassy's FSNs. |
March 19, 2002
The U.S. Embassy in Ashgabat marked its tenth annniversary of operations in Turkmenistan on March 17, 2002. The Embassy opened on March 17, 1992. The Embassy originally was housed in the Jubileynyi Hotel on Tehran Street. The U.S. flag was raised at its current location on July 4, 1995.
"We are extremely pleased to celebrate ten years of working with the people and Government of Turkmenistan," Ambassador Laura Kennedy stated. "I am proud that the U.S. Government was one of the first to recognize the independence of Turkmenistan. I hope that the next ten years will bring closer cooperation on a range of issues, from education and civil society to narcotics control and regional security issues." In addition to our bilateral programs, the U.S. is a strong proponent of cooperation with a range of international and regional organizations such as the United Nations, the Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe, NATO's Partnership for Peace, and the international financial institutions. The U.S. fully respects Turkmenistan's policy of neutrality and believes it is fully compatible with robust bilateral and international engagement.
From the beginning of its operations, the American Mission has focused on expanding and strengthening Turkmen-American cooperation and especially investing in the future of Turkmenistan. Over 600 citizens of Turkmenistan, the majority of whom are young people, have traveled to the United States on official exchange programs to study or meet with their professional counterparts. Recent cultural ties include joint projects such as the restoration of the mosaic tile of the Seit-Djemalladdin Mosque in Annau. The American Mission has also worked with the Turkmen Government to promote political and economic reforms, including projects to strengthen the rule of law, build a stronger civil society, and improve the health and education sectors.
Since September 11, the U.S. Government and the Government of Turkmenistan have worked closely together in the war on terrorism. The two governments have worked with the UN agencies to provide humanitarian assistance to the people of Afghanistan. Since October, over 165,000 metric tons of food and other goods have been shipped by the World Food Program into Afghanistan from Turkmenabat, 80% of which is funded by the U.S. Government. Approximately 40% of food aid entering Afghanistan transits Turkmenistan. The U.S. is also committed to working with Turkmenistan on the long-term reconstruction of Afghanistan and its integration into stable and beneficial regional and international arrangements.
The U.S. Government values its strong friendship with the people of Turkmenistan and is committed to seeking new avenues of cooperation with the Government of Turkmenistan.
