Azerbaijan, Baku, Jan. 10 / Trend, R.Darakhshan /
Incumbent Turkmen president said Monday in his program statement as a presidential candidate that he supports establishment of new parties and independent media in the country, State Information Service of Turkmenistan reported.
"It should be noted that we need parties which would unite the people and inspire them to constructive work for the further prosperity of our country", Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov said.
Berdimuhamedov named the transformation of Turkmenistan from predominantly agrarian country into an industrial power among his top priorities.
The president also refused free television air time he has a right to as a candidate and asked the Central Election Commission to redistribute it between the other candidates.
Presidential election in Turkmenistan is scheduled for February 12.