President of Turkmenistan Serdar Berdimuhamedov has been awarded the degree of «Honorary Doctor in the Field of International Relations» by Hacettepe University. According to the TDH news agency, The diploma presentation ceremony took place on October 30 as part of the head of state's working visit to the Republic of Turkey.

At Hacettepe University, the President of Turkmenistan was welcomed by Vice President of the Republic of Turkey Cevdet Yılmaz and the university's rector, Mehmet Cahit Güran. The event was attended by members of the Turkmenistan government delegation, Turkish officials, faculty members and students, including citizens of Turkmenistan.

The decision to award the honorary degree was made by the Academic Council of Hacettepe University. The grounds for the decision included President Serdar Berdimuhamedov's contribution to the development of international relations, the promotion of Turkmenistan's policy of permanent neutrality, support for peaceful diplomacy and the strengthening of cooperation with Turkey. The decision also highlighted initiatives in regional development, artificial intelligence, «smart» agriculture and educational programmes.

Speaking at the ceremony, Rector Mehmet Cahit Güran emphasized the historical and cultural ties between the two peoples, as well as the importance of Turkish-Turkmen cooperation in education and healthcare. The rector noted Hacettepe University's cooperation with Turkmenistan in the medical field and congratulated the country on the opening of three medical institutions in Ashgabat on October 9.

Vice President of the Republic of Turkey Cevdet Yılmaz highlighted Serdar Berdimuhamedov's contribution to strengthening international peace, developing interstate ties and bringing the two peoples closer together. According to Cevdet Yılmaz, the awarding of the honorary degree reflects the importance of Turkish-Turkmen relations, which are based on mutual trust and respect.

After receiving the diploma, the President of Turkmenistan thanked the university's leadership, members of the Academic Council and the teaching staff for awarding him the honorary degree. The head of state noted that he regarded the award as recognition of Turkmenistan's contribution to the development of international relations, the strengthening of peace and trust, as well as the expansion of interstate cooperation.

In his speech, President Serdar Berdimuhamedov emphasized the priority importance of science and education in Turkmenistan's state policy. Particular attention was drawn to the role of cooperation between universities, scientists and research centres of the two countries, as well as the education of thousands of Turkmen citizens at universities in Turkey.

In conclusion, the head of state expressed confidence in the further development of Turkmen-Turkish relations and wished the Turkish people well-being and prosperity.