The US Ambassador to Turkmenistan visited Balkan Bilayet. In order to make a good impression, the local government decided to dress up the teachers
Authorities in one region of Turkmenistan formed a so-called organization after hearing about the US ambassador's visit. Potemkin village. For this purpose, the English teacher dressed up as a market trader to make the best impression on the diplomat. A variety of products were lined up in the usually empty merchandise corner.
Last week, US Ambassador Elizabeth Ruud visited western Turkmenistan and met with local authorities and entrepreneurs, as reported by the Radio Svoboda website. They included both citizens of this country and representatives of American companies operating in the country.
The local authorities were very keen to showcase the best aspects of the area. So they came up with the idea of casting English teachers as market traders. The stands themselves were full of merchandise, but were often empty on a daily basis due to the difficulty in obtaining basic food items.
Turkmenistan. An artificially created village for the visit of the US ambassador
In preparation for the arrival of the US delegation to Balkanbilayet (province), authorities also banned cars manufactured before 2015 from driving on public roads. Furthermore, at work and school, we provided guidance on how to respond appropriately when asked questions. Regarding living environment and supplies.
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Radio Słoboda journalists were unable to obtain comment from authorities about these practices, but similar practices are said to be standard, especially during visits by important people from abroad.
It is also unclear whether Ambassador Rood was able to test the English proficiency of local teachers and traders. Turkmenistan's media and the U.S. embassy's press office reported only on official talks.
Turkmenistan. They wanted to make a good impression. they shattered the sad reality
Turkmenistan is one of the most repressive countries in the world, ruled by an autocratic president. Each subsequent head of state consistently and skillfully builds his own cult. The country has been at the bottom of the most important rankings for living standards for many years.
See: Georgia is boiling. The president's simple and powerful words. “I'll stay in my job.”
The word “Potemkin village” comes from the name of Grigory Potemkin. It is used in the context of situations intended to make a positive impression while hiding embarrassing aspects of reality.
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