Embassy News

U.S. Senator Richard Lugar Visits Turkmenistan

PAS No 204
January 12, 2008

Ashgabat, January 12, 2008 – U.S. Senator Richard Lugar is visiting Turkmenistan January 11-13, 2008, in support of expanding cooperation between the United States and Turkmenistan.  During his visit, Senator Lugar met with President Gurbanguly Berdimuhammedov and other representatives of the Government of Turkmenistan, to discuss bilateral relations including increased cooperation in areas of security, economic cooperation, agricultural reform, energy issues, as well as academic and cultural exchanges.

Senator Lugar underlined the importance of cooperation between the United States and Turkmenistan, emphasizing that “academic and cultural exchanges are critical for the mutual progress of our two countries in the future.  I was pleased to learn of President Berdimuhamedov’s strong support for exchanges which will bring greater mutual understanding, and enhance the expertise and capabilities of his citizens.”  With regard to economic reforms, Senator Lugar noted, “in the agricultural and energy sectors, the United States stands ready to support Turkmenistan in the way forward.  Our government, our people, and our companies have a wealth of experience that they are ready to share with their friends in Turkmenistan.”

Senator Richard Lugar is a senior and influential member of the United States Senate.  He serves as the Republican leader of the Foreign Relations Committee and was first elected to the U.S. Senate in 1976.  Senator Lugar represents the state of Indiana in the U.S. Senate and won a sixth term in 2006 with 87 percent of the vote.