The celebrations in Ashgabat marking the International Year of Peace and Trust, the International Day of Neutrality, and the 30th anniversary of Turkmenistan’s permanent neutrality went well beyond ceremonial events. They evolved into a major diplomatic platform, once again demonstrating the practical relevance of Turkmenistan’s neutral status in global affairs.

The Chairman of the Halk Maslahaty and National Leader of the Turkmen people, Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov, held a series of meetings with the heads of leading international organisations. Conducted in an atmosphere of confidence and mutual respect, the discussions reflected the strong international interest in Turkmenistan’s model of neutrality as a factor of regional and global stability.

Neutrality and Security: Engagement with the SCO

At the meeting with the Secretary-General of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation, Nurlan Yermekbayev, the high regard of the SCO for Turkmenistan’s internationally recognised status of permanent neutrality was emphasised. Ashgabat’s participation in SCO events as an honoured guest was described as an important contribution to strengthening trust and good-neighbourly relations across the Eurasian region.

The National Leader noted that permanent neutrality remains the cornerstone of Turkmenistan’s foreign policy and serves as a solid foundation for building equitable dialogue with all partners, including the SCO member states.

Economic Cooperation: Focus on Practical Outcomes

During talks with the Secretary-General of the Economic Cooperation Organization, Asad Majid Khan, attention was centred on cooperation in the economic, transport and energy sectors. Turkmenistan’s considerable transit and energy potential was highlighted, along with its interest in developing new logistics routes and enhancing regional connectivity.

Both sides underlined the importance of practical initiatives aimed at sustainable development and the expansion of economic partnership within the ECO framework.

The Humanitarian Dimension: Culture as a Bridge Between Nations

Humanitarian cooperation was a key theme of the meeting with the Director-General of the Islamic World Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (ICESCO), Salim Al Malik. Turkmenistan’s efforts to preserve and promote its cultural heritage, as well as to advance education and science, received high praise. It was noted that joint projects in these areas can serve as effective bridges for intercultural dialogue and mutual understanding within both the Islamic world and the broader international community.

A Week’s Outcome: Neutrality in Action

The Ashgabat meetings held by the National Leader of the Turkmen people clearly demonstrated that Turkmenistan’s neutrality is not merely a formal status, but a practical instrument for diplomacy, economic cooperation and humanitarian engagement. All discussions concluded with a shared commitment to expanding practical cooperation and advancing joint initiatives in the spirit of peace and trust.

Source: www.orient.tm