The authorities in the Balkan vilayet in western Turkmenistan, informed about the visit of the US ambassador, set up a “Potemkin village”. In order to make the best impression on the diplomat, English teachers were disguised as traders at the market.
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According to the “Radio Swoboda” website, the ambassador last week USA Elizabeth Rood visited the Western Oblast of Turkmenistan. She held meetings there with local authorities and entrepreneurs – both Turkmen and representatives of American companies operating in the country.
The local authorities decided to present the region from its best side. Not only teachers were disguised as traders in markets that a diplomat could visit. The stands were full of goods, despite the well-known difficulty in obtaining basic foodstuffs.
During the visit of the American delegation, the authorities banned cars manufactured before 2015 from driving on public roads. In addition, talks were held in workplaces and schools on the appropriate answers if someone was asked, among others: about living conditions and supplies.
Common practices of the administration of Turkmenistan
Turkmenistan, Balkan vilayetShutterstock
The authorities did not comment on these projects to the journalists of “Radio Swoboda”. However, it is known that they take such steps during visits by heads of state and high-ranking officials to Turkmenistan.
It is also not known whether Ambassador Rood had the opportunity to practice the “traders'” English level. Both the Turkmenistan media and the press service of the American embassy focused on the coverage of the official meetings.
Turkmenistan, one of the most oppressive countries in the world, is ruled in a dictatorial manner by successive presidents who create their own cult. It occupies one of the last places in all rankings regarding the standard of living.
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