by nawabzada shah ali

Ashgabat, Turkmenistan – 01 September 2025: Turkmenistan is preparing to make a significant impact at the 80th session of the UN General Assembly, with a comprehensive set of initiatives aimed at influencing the international agenda across peace, security, sustainable development, environmental protection, and humanitarian cooperation.

During a key government meeting, Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Rashid Meredov presented President Serdar Berdimuhamedov with the country’s priority positions that will guide Ashgabat’s diplomatic approach in the coming year. These proposals are not mere statements but practical steps reflecting Turkmenistan’s ambition to actively participate in global problem-solving.

Peace and Security: Neutrality as a Global Value
Turkmenistan’s constitutionally enshrined permanent neutrality is central to its foreign policy. At the UN session, the country plans to propose:

• Inclusion of “Neutrality – for the Sake of Peace and Security” on the agenda.
• Draft resolutions promoting neutrality and establishing an International Mediation Day.
• Development of a Special Guide on Neutrality under UN auspices.
• Creation of a Mediation Chamber for Peace.

These initiatives reinforce Turkmenistan’s role as a universal mediator, offering institutionalized mechanisms to reduce conflicts and expand dialogue globally.

Culture of Peace and Trust
Turkmenistan is advancing humanitarian diplomacy through initiatives such as:

• An international forum, “Central Asia – a Space for Building a Peaceful Life”.
• A Global Summit on the Culture of Peace, Trust, and Mutual Respect.
• Development of a Code of International Trust.

These proposals aim to position Central Asia as a region of collaboration and innovation rather than confrontation, enhancing Turkmenistan’s image as a pioneer of humanitarian initiatives.

Sustainable Development: Transport, Energy, Digitalization
Turkmenistan seeks to leverage its strategic location to become a major Eurasian transit hub, building modern ports, highways, and railways. The country is also focusing on energy diversification, renewable energy development, and digitalization. At the UN, Turkmenistan will propose:

• Declaration of the UN Decade of Sustainable Transport (2026-2035).
• Highlighting energy connectivity’s role in sustainable development.
• Creation of a Global Digital Integration Platform under UN guidance.

These steps aim to strengthen global energy security, support trade corridors, and integrate Turkmenistan into the global digital economy.

Environmental Diplomacy
Addressing climate challenges, Turkmenistan is promoting regional and global water management initiatives and ecosystem protection. Key proposals include:

• Establishing a Regional Center to Combat Desertification.
• Developing conventions on the Amu Darya and Syr Darya basins.
• Creating a Regional Climate Technology Center.
• Continuing the UN Aral Sea Basin Program.
• Hosting the Second Caspian Environmental Forum in 2026.

These measures position Turkmenistan as a leader in environmental sustainability and regional cooperation.

Humanitarian Initiatives
Turkmenistan emphasizes education, healthcare, and cultural development, with proposals such as:

• International Conference on Women, Peace, and Security.
• Regional platform for training young peacekeepers.
• International Day of Multilingual Diplomacy.
• Draft resolution on the Cultural Heritage of the Great Silk Road.

These initiatives highlight Turkmenistan’s commitment to youth, women, and cultural diplomacy, expanding the humanitarian dimension of international relations.

Law and UN Institutions
Turkmenistan continues to advocate for strengthening international law, proposing the declaration of 2028 as the Year of International Law and preparing for UN Security Council elections in 2031-2032.

A Bridge of Trust
Turkmenistan’s initiatives demonstrate that neutrality is not passive but an active, responsible approach to global governance. By promoting peace, energy security, sustainable transport, environmental protection, digital innovation, and humanitarian collaboration, Turkmenistan aims to strengthen its status as a neutral mediator and regional leader.

The country’s proposals at the 80th UN General Assembly provide the international community with practical tools for dialogue and sustainable development, while enhancing Turkmenistan’s authority as a constructive global partner.

Bekdurdy Amansaryev, Center for Strategic Studies, Institute of International Relations, Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Turkmenistan