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Derya Soysal (Université libre de Bruxelles)
10/01/2025 18:10
Dear Mrs Rahymova, could you tell us about Turkmenistan's status of permanent neutrality?
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.
This observance underscores the global significance of neutrality in promoting peace and security, reflecting Turkmenistan’s role in advocating for these principles on the world stage.
Do you have any concrete examples of Turkmenistan's achievements in securing regional or global peace?
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 2025 consist of, since the Turkmen government has declared it a year of peace?
As part of the 2025 celebrations, Turkmenistan plans to host key events, aimed at promoting the values of peace and neutrality, including the International Forum of Peace and Trust scheduled for December 2025. These activities will highlight the nation’s achievements over three decades and its vision for the future. Key discussions will focus on sustainable development, regional cooperation, and strategies to address contemporary challenges such as energy security, climate change, and transnational threats.
Has this peace promotion enabled regional cooperation?
Turkmenistan’s contributions to global energy diplomacy are particularly noteworthy. In recent years, the country has championed the concept of reliable and stable energy transit and connectivity. Its proposals led to the adoption of UN resolutions in 2008, 2013 and 2023 on the subject, with support from dozens of member states. The TAPI pipeline, backed by international financial institutions, exemplifies Turkmenistan’s commitment to fostering mutual benefit and regional connectivity. Additionally, Turkmenistan’s infrastructure projects, such as the North–South and East–West transport corridors, demonstrate the country’s role in facilitating trade and cooperation. These corridors link Central Asia to global markets, advancing economic growth and stability across the region.
Thank you for this interview. Would you like to end with a brief 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.
In conclusion, it would seem that thanks to its policy of permanent neutrality, Turkmenistan has developed its diplomacy and international relations. December 12 is celebrated in Turkmenistan as “Neutrality Day”, and this year marks the 30ᵉ anniversary of the United Nations' official recognition of its neutral status. This neutral status is firmly embedded in the country's constitutional order.