Insights Into Turkmenistan’s Year Of Peace Celebration In Brussels – Interview

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In 2025, Turkmenistan celebrates the 30th anniversary of its status as a permanently neutral state, a milestone that coincides with the International Year of Peace and Trust – a global initiative spearheaded by the country. That’s why I wanted to do an interview with a Turkmen Diplomat in Brussels, Maral Rahymova (Second Secretary, Turkmen embassy).

Dear Madam, could you explain the significance of Turkmenistan’s Year of Peace celebration?

In 2025, Turkmenistan celebrates the 30th anniversary of its status as a permanently neutral state, a milestone that coincides with the International Year of Peace and Trust – a global initiative spearheaded by the country. These interconnected events mark a significant chapter in the nation’s history, highlighting its contributions to international diplomacy, peace, and development.

What does the country’s permanent neutrality mean?

Turkmenistan’s neutrality was formally recognized on December 12, 1995, when the United Nations General Assembly unanimously adopted a resolution granting the country its neutral status. All 185 UN member states at the time supported this historic decision. Neutrality became a cornerstone of Turkmenistan’s foreign policy, shaping its international engagements and positioning the nation as a reliable partner committed to peace. In addition to being commemorated as a national holiday – the Day of Neutrality – on December 12, Turkmenistan’s commitment to neutrality has gained international recognition. In February 2017, the United Nations General Assembly adopted a resolution declaring December 12 as the International Day of Neutrality, following a proposal by Turkmenistan. 

What sets Turkmenistan apart since it adopted its status of permanent neutrality?

The country’s dedication to neutrality extends to security and military policy. Turkmenistan’s military doctrine is strictly defensive, with its armed forcestasked solely with protecting national sovereignty. The refusal to join military alliances or blocs has shielded Turkmenistan from regional conflicts and allowed it to focus on enhancing its defensive capabilities without external entanglements. This approach has earned Turkmenistan a reputation for stability in a geopolitically complex region.

Turkmenistan’s neutrality also embodies a cultural and philosophical dimension, fostering a mindset of tolerance and non-confrontation among its people. This worldview is reflected in the nation’s active participation in regional peace initiatives.

How has Turkmenistan’s policy of neutrality and focus on preventive diplomacy advanced regional peacebuilding and earned international recognition?

Turkmenistan’s commitment to neutrality has positioned it as a key player in regional peacebuilding. Its collaboration with the UN Regional Centre for Preventive Diplomacy for Central Asia, established in Ashgabat in 2007, exemplifies this proactive approach.

Turkmenistan’s neutrality also embodies a cultural and philosophical dimension, fostering a mindset of tolerance and non-confrontation among its people. This worldview is reflected in the nation’s active participation in regional peace initiatives. Turkmenistan played a crucial role in mediating the Tajik civil conflict from 1995 to 1996 and supported UN-led efforts to resolve the Afghan crisis from 1999 to 2000. The country’s emphasis on preventive diplomacy continues to resonate through the work of the UN Regional Center for Preventive Diplomacy for Central Asia, headquartered in Ashgabat since 2007. Through the effective efforts of this Center and the proactive diplomacy of Turkmenistan, the United Nations General Assembly adopted a landmark resolution on October 24, 2024, designating Central Asia as a zone of peace, trust, and cooperation.

What does Turkmenistan plan to do this year after declaring it the Year of Peace?

The International Year underscores the interconnectedness of peace, trust, and sustainable development – a relationship that is central to Turkmenistan’s approach to global diplomacy.

Inequality, whether economic, social, or political, often stems from conflict, mistrust, and marginalization. The 2025 initiative highlights that lasting peace requires more than the mere absence of conflict; it demands a proactive commitment to addressing disparities and fostering opportunities for all.

What are Turkmenistan’s key objectives in its initiative to promote peace as a dynamic and inclusive process?

The initiative recognizes that peace extends beyond the absence of conflict; it is a dynamic, inclusive process requiring collective effort. Its key objectives include:

Promoting Preventive Diplomacy: Encouraging nations to adopt dialogue-based mechanisms for conflict prevention and resolution.

Strengthening Trust: Building confidence among states through mutual respect and shared commitments.

Fostering Sustainable Development: Emphasizing that peace is a prerequisite for achieving economic, social, and environmental sustainability.

Would you like to end with a concluding statement?

The International Year of Peace and Trust 2025 is more than a symbolic observance; it is a call to meaningful action. By addressing inequality through the principles of peace and trust, the initiative paves the way for a more harmonious world, where everyone has the chance to thrive.

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In conclusion, the dual celebration of 2025 – marking 30 years of neutrality and the International Year of Peace and Trust – is a testament to Turkmenistan’s enduring commitment to the principles of peaceful coexistence and global partnership. As the nation reflects on its journey, it also looks ahead to continued engagement in international efforts to build a more harmonious and prosperous world.

Derya Soysal

Derya Soysal is a Central Asia Expert and works for Diplomatic World.

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