– The neutral status of Turkmenistan contributes to socio-economic development and stability in the region!
This idea was especially emphasized by the Deputy Secretary General of the Economic Cooperation Organization Jandos Asanov, speaking via video link at the international conference "Neutrality, Peace and Trust" held today at the Institute of International Relations of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Turkmenistan.

At the event, which was organized by the IIR MFA together with the ECO, the achievements of Turkmenistan during the chairmanship of this organization, as well as the positive results of cooperation between the member states during this time, were discussed.
– ECO respects and highly appreciates the policy of neutrality pursued by Turkmenistan. The organization is among the first to recognize its effectiveness in solving global problems of modern times, - Asanov noted.

During the forum, attended by also students of the IIR in addition to diplomats and economists, the Deputy Secretary General of the ECO also stressed that for many countries that are members of the organization, philosophy and principles of neutrality are important. This political course creates excellent opportunities for significant development of mutually beneficial cooperation, strengthening socio-economic well-being.
At the upcoming XV summit of the ECO member states, which will be held in Ashgabat on November 28 -Day of the formation of this Organization, it is expected to prepare a new strategy that will ensure social and economic growth and strengthen interaction in the ECO region, Asanov said, emphasizing the role of Turkmenistan as neutral and an effective platform for solving important regional problems.

Rector of the Institute of International Relations Jumamyrat Gurbangeldyev, President of the Institute of Culture of the ECO Sarvar Bakkhti, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of Turkmenistan to the Islamic Republic of Iran Akhmed Gurbanov, Deputy Minister of Finance and Economy of Turkmenistan Begmyrat Allakbayev and other specialists also spoke at the forum.

Currently, Turkmenistan holds the chairmanship of the ECO. The concept of the country's chairmanship is aimed at enhancing investment activities in the member countries of the organization, trade and economic relations, increasing the volume and diversification of trade.
The summit, the meeting of the Council of Foreign Ministers and the business forum are part of the program of events of the 15th ECO Summit. They, as noted by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Turkmenistan, will become an effective platform for discussion on a wide range of issues, acting as a major final event - the chairmanship of Turkmenistan of this authoritative organization.
Dovletgeldy BORJAKOV
