In a heartfelt and comprehensive farewell, the departing US Ambassador to Turkmenistan, Matthew S. Klimow addressed the media today in his final press conference held at the US Ambassador’s Residence on June 24, 2024, marking the conclusion of his tenure.
Journalists from various media outlets attended the event to reflect on the ambassador’s contributions and discuss future prospects for bilateral relations.
Noting that this week marks exactly 5 years since he began to fulfill his duties in the country, Mr. Klimow detailed the directions of American-Turkmen cooperation, which received a new impetus for development during his mission in Turkmenistan. To whom the ambassador attributes successful cooperation on the program to reduce methane emissions within the framework of COP-28, issues of water resources management, consultative support for Turkmenistan’s entry into the World Trade Organization (WTO), assistance in the development of the export potential of small private businesses, and cultural and humanitarian projects.
Also, as a successful ambassador, he named STEM-projects aimed at developing young people, teaching them skills in digital and information technologies. Projects aimed at the participation of girls and women deserve special attention, he noted.
At the same time, talking about the implementation of joint Turkmen-American projects, M. Klimov emphasized that the valuable resource of Turkmenistan is, first of all, people.
He himself traveled a lot around the country, and in every corner of Turkmenistan, he was always impressed by the people – sincere, hospitable and kind. Diplomat also noted the remarkable youth of the country: he met with students and schoolchildren many times, and they always admired him with their enthusiasm and thirst for knowledge.
