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In the independent, neutral Turkmenistan, during the era of the Revival of a new epoch under the leadership of our respected President Serdar Berdimuhamedov, work is underway to improve and develop the museum business. As a result of archaeological excavations at the historical and cultural monuments of the country, the museum depositories are constantly replenished with various historical finds, which, in turn, are systematized and strictly protected.
Of course, many historical finds need restoration. This is evidenced by an amazing treasure - the head of Buddha, consisting of several parts. It was found in the historical monument of Gyaurgala, located on the territory of the historical and cultural reserve "Ancient Merv". This valuable artifact is a part of the monumental sculpture of Buddhas sculpture. In the period from 1960-1978, work was carried out to study this monument by the South Turkmen archaeological complex expedition, led by Mikhail Masson. The final work was carried out by expert archaeologists Gennady Koshelenko and Zamira Usmanova.
The Embassy of the United States of America in Turkmenistan adopted the program named the “Ambassador's Fund for the Cultural Preservation”. As part of this program, as a result of competitive selection, for the announced grant in 2021, a project submitted by the State Museum of the State Cultural Center of Turkmenistan for carrying out restoration work to restore the monumental historical sculpture of Buddha was approved.
On July 8, 2022, a solemn event was held at the State Museum of the State Cultural Center of Turkmenistan in honor of this event. The meeting was opened by Mr. Nigel Robinson, Cultural Attaché of the US Embassy in Turkmenistan, who introduced all the participants of the event. Then the US Ambassador to Turkmenistan, Mr. Matthew Klimow spoke, announcing the winner of 2021 grant of this program.
The director of the State Museum of the State Cultural Center of Turkmenistan Meretgeldy Charyev continued the dialogue with words of greeting and gratitude on behalf of himself and on behalf of the entire staff of the museum for approving the project under the program “Ambassador's Fund for the Cultural Preservation”. In his speech, he also warmly thanked our esteemed President, Mr. Ambassador Matthew Klimow for his great contribution to ensuring the protection of historical and cultural monuments.
Then Ms. Susanne Geansiecke, Chief Restorer and Head of the Historical Preservation Department of Jean Paul Getty Museum, spoke online. In her speech, shi informed all the participants of the event in details about the work plan for the restoration of the Buddha sculpture.
In conclusion, all participants of the celebration expressed their deep gratitude to the esteemed President for the ongoing work in the field of improving the museum business, as well as the protection and restoration of historical and cultural monuments. The US ambassador mister Matthew Klimow and other American quests were sincerely appreciated for support and conduction of activities in this field.