From 12 to 16 May 2025, the United Nations Resident Coordinator’s Office (RCO) in Turkmenistan, jointly with the Government of Turkmenistan, hosted an intensive regional training program for young diplomats from Central Asia in Ashgabat. The event, held at the Institute of International Relations under the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Turkmenistan, brought together 26 promising diplomats aged 24–30 from Kazakhstan, Kyrgyz Republic, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, and Uzbekistan.

Supported by the Embassies of Switzerland and Italy, and the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) in Turkmenistan, the training aimed to build the capacity of future leaders in diplomacy and foster regional cooperation. This initiative aligns with Turkmenistan’s commitment to nurturing young professionals and promoting peace, trust, and collaboration in Central Asia.

The opening ceremony featured remarks by high-level dignitaries, including Mr. Rashid Meredov, Deputy Chairman of the Cabinet of Ministers and Minister for Foreign Affairs of Turkmenistan; Mr. Kaha Imnadze, Special Representative of the UN Secretary-General (SRSG) for Central Asia; Mr. Luigi Ferrari, Ambassador of Italy to Turkmenistan; Mr. Dmitry Shlapachenko, UN Resident Coordinator (RC) in Turkmenistan; and Mr. Kemal Goshliyev, Head of UNFPA in Turkmenistan.

The five-day program featured thematic sessions and practical workshops covering the United Nations system, preventive diplomacy, gender and human rights, economic and demographic analysis, sustainable development, climate negotiations, public speaking, and diplomatic etiquette. Key sessions included simulation exercises on climate negotiations, conflict management, and political analysis.

This training was part of a broader initiative to implement the UN General Assembly resolution proclaiming 2025 as the International Year of Peace and Trust, adopted unanimously with the sponsorship of Turkmenistan and 86 member states.

"The investment in young diplomats today creates the foundation for a more cooperative and stable region tomorrow," said Mr. Shlapachenko during the opening remarks. “By learning and growing together, these future leaders are forging bonds that will shape the diplomacy of tomorrow.”

The training successfully achieved its primary objectives: strengthening the diplomatic capacities of young professionals, enhancing their understanding of the United Nations system, and fostering regional ties across Central Asia. Through a blend of theoretical instruction, practical simulations, and peer-to-peer learning, participants gained valuable insights into diplomacy, international cooperation, and global challenges. Most importantly, the program built a strong network of emerging diplomats, laying the groundwork for future collaboration and mutual support in regional and international affairs.

ORIENT