Ashgabat, December 12 | ORIENT. Celebrations taking place in Ashgabat to mark the International Year of Peace and Trust, International Neutrality Day, and the 30th anniversary of Turkmenistan's permanent neutrality have become an important platform for broad international dialogue.
During these days, meetings between Chairman of the People's Council (Khalk Maslakhaty), National Leader of the Turkmen People Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov, and the heads of several authoritative international organizations took on particular significance.
The conversations, held in a constructive and trusting atmosphere, confirmed the importance of Turkmenistan's neutrality as a key factor in stability and outlined new prospects for cooperation in the regional and global arenas.
Turkmenistan and the SCO: A Dialogue Based on Mutual Respect
During a meeting with Secretary-General of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization, Nurlan Yermekbayev, the SCO's high regard for Turkmenistan's legal status of permanent neutrality was emphasized. The guest noted that participating in a forum dedicated to peace and trust is a great honor for him and serves as confirmation of the importance of Ashgabat's constructive role in regional processes.
The National Leader reiterated that the policy of permanent neutrality is the foundation of Turkmenistan's foreign policy and contributes to strengthening trust between states. Interaction with SCO member states occupies an important place in the international activities of neutral Turkmenistan.
Turkmenistan's regular participation in the organization's summits as an honorary guest demonstrates a shared commitment to cooperation based on equality and respect. The conviction was expressed that dialogue with the Shanghai Cooperation Organization will continue to develop dynamically, strengthening the atmosphere of good-neighborliness and mutual understanding.
Economic Prospects: Meeting with the ECO Secretary-General
During a meeting with Secretary-General of the Economic Cooperation Organization, Asad Majid Khan, key areas of cooperation in the economic, transport, energy, and environmental spheres were discussed. The guest noted the particular significance of the International Forum organized in Ashgabat, emphasizing that its holding confirms Turkmenistan's unwavering commitment to the principles of peace and trust.
Welcoming the ECO leader, the head of Turkmenistan's highest representative body of people's power recalled significant events held within the framework of cooperation with the Organization, including the first ECO Ministerial Forum on Sustainable Development, held in April in Arkadag. This forum contributed to strengthening regional economic connectivity, expanding partnerships, and advancing the Sustainable Development Goals.
Turkmenistan, with its significant energy resources and advantageous geographic location, expressed its readiness to deepen cooperation with ECO member states, including the development of transport and logistics routes and participation in projects creating new transit corridors. During the conversation, openness to practical initiatives and a commitment to developing solutions that promote the sustainable development of the entire region were emphasized.
Strengthening Humanitarian and Cultural Ties
The meeting between the Chairman of the Khalk Maslakhaty and Director-General of the Organization of the Islamic World for Educational, Scientific, and Cultural Affairs, Salim Al Malik, held during the forum, was an important confirmation of Turkmenistan's commitment to strengthening humanitarian partnerships. The guest praised Turkmenistan's work to preserve and promote its national cultural heritage, noting its significance for the Islamic world and the international cultural space.
The National Leader emphasized that Turkmenistan attaches great importance to interaction with reputable international organizations in the fields of science, education, and culture. The rich history, spiritual traditions, and cultural values of the Turkmen people create a solid foundation for further expansion of cooperation. During the conversation, it was noted that joint projects can serve as a bridge uniting peoples and stimulate intercultural dialogue and mutual understanding.
The Ashgabat meetings between Chairman of the People's Council Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov and the leaders of global organizations confirmed that Turkmenistan's neutrality is an effective tool for promoting peace and strengthening international ties.
All three meetings were held in an atmosphere of trust and mutual respect, emphasizing the parties' desire for practical cooperation and the development of new initiatives. The exchange of warm wishes at the conclusion of the conversations reflected a shared commitment to moving forward along the path of sustainable and peaceful development.
