Director-General's remarks at the Event to celebrate the creative heritage of Magtymguly Fragi

Event to celebrate the creative heritage of Magtymguly Fragi

Tuesday, 19 March 2024, at 1.30 p.m.

Room III, Palais des Nations

Ambassador Hajiyev,

Excellencies,

Ladies and gentlemen,

It is my pleasure to join you today for this inspiring event to celebrate the poet Magtymguly Fragi. I would like to sincerely thank the Permanent Mission of Turkmenistan for bringing us together here at the Palais des Nations on this occasion.

In 2024, we commemorate the 300^th anniversary of the birth of Magtymguly Fragi, one of the greatest Turkmen thinkers and poets. His profound influence on Central Asian and European literature endures, as his timeless poems continue to enrich the universal treasury of spiritual values.

As Magtymguly Fragi once said, “The heart that loves its own nation also loves the world”. His poetry serves as a timeless reminder of the enduring principles of peace, humanism and solidarity that transcend borders and generations.

His literary expressions stand as a testament to the rich heritage of the region and serve as a powerful symbol of Turkmenistan’s identity. After three centuries, the name and the legacy of Magtymguly Fragi continue to be cherished and treasured across the world.

Literature, exemplified by Magtymguly Fragi’s legacy, plays a crucial role in fostering unity, diversity, and mutual understanding among nations. Being part of cultural diplomacy, literary expression is essential in shaping the future we envision, grounded in our shared values, traditions, and diversity.

Today’s event reflects the United Nations’ commitment to protect and preserve outstanding cultural heritage around the world. As such, Magtymguly Fragi’s creative work was included in UNESCO’s Memory of the World Register and his 300^th anniversary was included in the UNESCO List of Memorable Dates.

Here at the United Nations Office at Geneva, the heart of multilateralism, we continue to champion cultural diversity and dialogue. The UNOG Library proudly houses a book containing the timeless verses of Magtymguly Fragi[1].

As we celebrate the enduring legacy of this famous poet, we also look forward to World Poetry Day on 21 March, which focuses on the profound impact of poetry on our shared human experience.

“Where there is unity, there is strength”, as Magtymguly Fragi eloquently expressed in his poetry, reminding us of the power of solidarity in building a better world. So, let us seize this moment to reaffirm our commitment to the universal values that bind us together as the United Nations family.

Thank you.