2004 Press Releases

Turkmen Neutrality Day Address by PAO Ilya Levin

Dec. 11, 2004

Yashlyk Turkmen TV Channel (Delivered in Russian)

Greetings. I am the new Public Affairs Officer of the U.S. Embassy in Turkmenistan and assumed my duties as PAO just 10 days ago. I am pleased to have an opportunity to address the Turkmen people-and, particularly, the Turkmen youth - on the Yashlyk (Youth) TV channel.

I would like to congratulate the people of Turkmenistan on the Neutrality Day. This holiday symbolizes Turkmenistan's aspiration to peace and security in the region and in the world. During the nine years since the United Nations recognized Turkmenistan's status as a neutral state, your country has maintained peaceful and friendly relations with its neighbors.

It is significant that Turkmenistan's Neutrality Day is celebrated right after the International Human Rights Day. In the United States, we believe that respect for human rights is a key guarantee for society's stability.

Strengthening peace and stability in the region and expanding mutual ties between the United States and Turkmenistan are high on the agenda of my government. As the Public Affairs Officer, I will do my best to promote mutual understanding between the two nations through our programs, including educational and cultural exchanges.

Once again I would like to congratulate you on the Neutrality Day and wish your country peace and prosperity.