An international art exhibition titled “Mother Nature” opened in Ashgabat on October 20. The event was organized by the Heydar Aliyev Foundation of the Republic of Azerbaijan, with the support of the Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov Charitable Foundation for Assistance to Children in Need of Guardianship. The opening ceremony was attended by Oguljahan Atabayeva, Vice President of the Charitable Foundation; Leyla Aliyeva, Vice President of the Heydar Aliyev Foundation; and Saida Mirziyoyeva, Head of the Presidential Administration of the Republic of Uzbekistan, according to the TDH news agency.

Prior to the opening, Oguljahan Atabayeva, Leyla Aliyeva and Saida Mirziyoyeva held a trilateral meeting. They discussed the development of cultural and humanitarian cooperation, environmental initiatives and opportunities for joint projects. Oguljahan Atabayeva highlighted the exhibition’s role in strengthening ties between the countries and raising environmental awareness among young people.

Leyla Aliyeva emphasized the potential for sharing experience in environmental protection and promoting a responsible attitude towards nature. Saida Mirziyoyeva noted the development of cultural and humanitarian relations between Turkmenistan and Uzbekistan, as well as the importance of joint environmental initiatives.

Speaking at the opening ceremony, Oguljahan Atabayeva said the exhibition was the result of cooperation between the Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov Charitable Foundation for Assistance to Children in Need of Guardianship and the Heydar Aliyev Foundation. She noted that art helps foster mutual understanding between peoples, while the theme of nature brings together issues of environmental well-being and sustainable development.

The Vice President of the Charitable Foundation stressed that environmental protection, the rational use of natural resources and mitigating the effects of climate change are among the priorities of Turkmenistan’s state policy. Oguljahan Atabayeva also highlighted the role of families, educational institutions and the wider community in teaching children to love nature and care for the environment.

Leyla Aliyeva thanked the Turkmen side for its support in organizing the exhibition and expressed confidence that the event would expand international cooperation on environmental issues. The Vice President of the Heydar Aliyev Foundation also underscored the importance of joint initiatives in encouraging young people to adopt a responsible attitude towards nature.

The exhibition features works by Azerbaijani artists and designers celebrating the beauty of nature, the diversity of animal and plant life, and the need to preserve it. The exhibition hall also showcases works by Turkmen artists, handicrafts made by local women and examples of traditional national clothing.

A special highlight of the programme was a demonstration of the traditional üme gathering, which symbolizes unity and mutual support. Performances by young artists added to the opening ceremony.

The international exhibition “Mother Nature” will remain open in Ashgabat until November 30, 2026. The organizers expect the exhibition to encourage the exchange of experience, strengthen cultural and humanitarian ties, and raise public awareness—particularly among young people—of environmental protection.

Following the opening ceremony, Oguljahan Atabayeva, Leyla Aliyeva and Saida Mirziyoyeva visited the National Museum of Turkmen Carpet. The guests learned about the history of Turkmen carpets, the distinctive features of traditional carpet weaving and the colour schemes used in traditional designs. A showcase of Turkmen national clothing was also held, featuring a blend of traditional elements and contemporary trends.

At Ashgabat International Airport, Oguljahan Atabayeva saw off Leyla Aliyeva and Saida Mirziyoyeva. The guests thanked the Turkmen side for organizing the events and for its hospitality, noting that the visit had left them with warm memories.