In the era of the Revival of the new epoch of the Powerful state our permanent Neutral state achieves great success in increasing friendly relations with all of nations around the world as well as neighbouring countries. This highly – achieved relations is being broadened in political-diplomatic, trade-economic and cultural-humanitarian spheres. It is prominent to acclaim that these relations are based on humanity, brotherhood and mutual benefits. One of these friendly countries is the Republic of Iraq.

Relations between Turkmen and Iraqi nations take their roots from ancient history. As we know, Turkmen states as Seljuk, Ildengiz, Garagoyunly and Akgoyunly were founded, exactly, in Iraqi lands. In those times Turkmen rulers gave an important assistance to development of Iraqi nations. Especially, in the time of Turkmen-seljuk rulers the historical bridge of mutual relations which continued forever, were built between two nations. This examples show that relations between two nations take roots from ancient pages of history.

Diplomatic relations between the two brotherly countries were established in July the 31st, 2009. This event opened a new page in the relations between two peoples. From the beginning, our country intensified its relations with the Republic of Iraq in the political-diplomatic, trade-economic and cultural-humanitarian fields. This situation is unique proof of the principles of good neighbourhood, mutual benefits and permanent neutrality of our Fatherland. In addition, the cooperation between two states is expanding mainly in the fields of fuel and energy and cultural – humanitarian spheres.

Also, cooperation in the framework of the international organizations, which are the most typical instrument of multilateral diplomacy, is one of the priorities in the foreign policy of both countries. Permanent Neutral Turkmenistan actively cooperates with this friendly country within the framework of international intergovernmental organizations such as United Nations, the Organization of Islamic Cooperation, the Islamic Development Bank, and the Organization of Energy Charter. This is fully evidenced by support of several initiatives put forward by our country by the Republic of Iraq.

This year marks the 15th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between the brotherly countries. The achievements in cooperation of two fraternal nations in this short period deserve special mention. The annual political-diplomatic, trade-economic and cultural-humanitarian consultations are a clear example of this development. This will greatly contribute to the further development and expansion of good relations.

Hojamyrat BAYLYEV,

The third year student of the Faculty of International Relations

of the Institute of International Relations

of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Turkmenistan.