An international scientific and practical conference dedicated to Akhal-Teke horses and Turkmen equestrian art was held in the conference hall of the “Asteria” hotel in Venray, the Netherlands. The event was organized within the framework of the World Championship among Akhal-Teke horses and brought together scientists, horse breeders, cultural figures, art specialists and representatives of international organizations from different countries. This was reported by the International News Centre of Turkmenistan.
The forum became an important platform for discussing issues related to the preservation, scientific study and global promotion of the rich heritage of Akhal-Teke horses. Participants exchanged views on the history and development of the breed, breeding traditions and international cooperation in this field.
The conference paid special attention to the importance of including the art of breeding Akhal-Teke horses and the traditions of horse decoration in the UNESCO Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity. The participants also discussed the representation of Akhal-Teke horses in visual and applied arts, scientific and genetic foundations of veterinary and breeding activities, as well as modern methods of preserving the purity of the breed.
One of the key events of the forum was the presentation of new publications dedicated to Akhal-Teke horses. Participants were presented with the Dutch-language edition of the book “A horse - a symbol of faithfulness and happiness” by the National Leader of the Turkmen people Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov. The book, consisting of eight chapters, provides detailed information about the history and development of Turkmen equestrian traditions.
In her speech, President of the Austrian-Turkmen Society Dr. Neda Berger highly praised the role of Akhal-Teke horses in strengthening friendship between peoples and promoting cultural cooperation. According to her, Turkmen Akhal-Teke horses serve as symbols of peace, friendship and goodwill in modern cultural diplomacy.
Dr. Neda Berger emphasized the importance of state support in Turkmenistan aimed at preserving and developing this unique breed, noting that the fame of the “heavenly” horses today unites different continents.
Responsible Secretary of the National Commission of Turkmenistan for UNESCO Affairs, Hero of Turkmenistan Chinar Rustemova highlighted the historical role of Akhal-Teke horses as a common human cultural heritage in her speech at the forum.
According to her, the international conference organized within the framework of the World Championship with the support of the State Association “Türkmen atlary” plays an important role in further studying and promoting the Akhal-Teke breed in Europe and worldwide.
The speakers provided detailed information on the significance of including the art of breeding Akhal-Teke horses and traditional horse decoration in the UNESCO list, their thousand-year history, exceptional endurance and influence on the development of global equestrian culture.
At the conclusion of the conference, it was emphasized that the image of Akhal-Teke horses is reflected on the State Emblem of Turkmenistan and plays an important role in the activities of the UNESCO Club in Arkadag City. The horses are recognized as a true symbol of peace, friendship and creation, bringing together countries, continents and generations.
