The twin cities of Ashgabat and Albuquerque (USA) celebrated 30 years of partnership on July 25, 2020. The Twin Cities Protocol was signed on July 25, 1990, by Albuquerque Mayor Luis Saavedra and Ashgabat Mayor Amangeldy Bayramov. Since then the inhabitants of both settlements have become active participants in a number of exchange programs designed to promote development of modern technologies, creation of steady ties between representatives of business circles of Turkmenistan and the USA. In no small measure the partnership between the cities has helped preserve their cultural and environmental riches. Over the last three decades, exchanges have been organized by both sides, and participants have included representatives of ethnic dance groups of Native Americans, flamenco dancers and regional artists. Other programs have been implemented that benefit both sides.
Over the course of 30 years, hundreds of citizens of Turkmenistan and the United States have been able to exchange views and learn more about the twin cities they live in. And the warm and generous hospitality of residents of both cities has fostered friendly relations.
A strong and long-lasting relationship between the twin cities is promoted by the common interests of their inhabitants. Ashgabat and Albuquerque have already managed to exchange and preserve such cultural values as horseback riding, carpet weaving, jewelry making, family traditions and others. Another unifying feature for both cities is their rich archaeological heritage.
Ambassador Matthew S. Klimow thanked the Government of Turkmenistan, the Turkmen capital's mayor's office, and Turkmenistan's exchange program participants for their support and development of the partnership. He also noted that the best aspects of the Turkmenistan-U.S. relationship, such as innovation, openness, and great fruitfulness, are evident in the Ashgabat-Albukerke interaction.
The establishment of the international twinning program dates back to 1956. Its purpose is to strengthen contacts between the people of different countries of the world. During the life of the program about 1,800 cities, counties and states in 138 states have become partners.
You can learn more about Albuquerque, the twinning relationship between Albuquerque and Ashgabat, and the potential for business and education by visiting the American Center in Turkmenistan, or visiting the American Corners in Mary, Dashoguz and Turkmenabat.
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