Vienna and Lakitelek Celebrated 30 Years of Neutrality: Turkmenistan Strengthens Dialogue with Europe
In early October 2025, major events were held across Europe to mark the 30th anniversary of Turkmenistan’s permanent neutrality and the International Year of Peace and Trust. The solemn forums, organized by the Embassy of Turkmenistan, took place in Vienna (Austria) and Lakitelek (Hungary).
High-Level Dialogue in Vienna: Neutrality and the UN
In Austria, with the support of the Turkmen-Austrian Society, hundreds of participants gathered — heads of diplomatic missions, representatives of international organizations, Austrian ministries, and students. Turkmenistan’s Ambassador to Austria, Hemra Amannazarov, emphasized the country’s steadfast commitment to the principles of neutrality, peace, and cooperation. He elaborated on Turkmenistan’s key priorities presented at the 80th session of the UN General Assembly, highlighting their global significance.
• Austrian assessment: Maximilian Hennig, Head of Protocol at Austria’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, and Neda Berger, Head of the Turkmen-Austrian Society, highly praised bilateral relations and underlined the role of neutrality in strengthening global stability.
• Bilateral cooperation: Special emphasis was placed on the meeting between President of Turkmenistan Serdar Berdimuhamedov and Austrian President Alexander Van der Bellen on the sidelines of the UN General Assembly in New York.
Forum in Hungary: Culture and Diplomacy
At the same time, from October 2 to 4, events dedicated to the anniversary of neutrality were held in the Hungarian city of Lakitelek. Participants — representatives of the Hungarian government, diplomats, and scientists — noted the successful implementation of Turkmenistan’s policy of positive neutrality, which serves as a model of constructive diplomacy.
The conference reaffirmed that Turkmenistan’s neutrality, recognized and confirmed three times by UN resolutions, remains a cornerstone of its foreign policy.
Cultural program:
• Exhibitions: The event featured books by President of Turkmenistan Serdar Berdimuhamedov and an exhibition of Turkmen arts and crafts, including carpets and embroidery.
• Concert: A musical concert was held featuring masterpieces by Turkmen composers and performances on traditional instruments such as the dutar.
Both gatherings served to strengthen Turkmenistan’s international cooperation and showcased its active promotion of peace, dialogue, and sustainable development across the European continent.
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