The Ambassador of Turkmenistan Delivered a Lecture at the Université libre de Bruxelles, Emphasizing Neutrality and International Peace Initiatives

The Ambassador of Turkmenistan Sapar Palvanov delivered a lecture to students at the Université libre de Bruxelles (ULB), highlighting the key principles of the country’s foreign policy based on neutrality, as well as Turkmenistan’s initiatives aimed at strengthening global peace and trust.

In his speech, the Ambassador noted that Turkmenistan is the only country in the world whose status of permanent neutrality was officially recognized by the United Nations General Assembly in 1995. This principle has become the foundation of the country’s international engagement, allowing Turkmenistan to serve as a mediator in resolving regional and global conflicts, as well as fostering constructive dialogue between nations.

One of the key aspects of Turkmenistan’s foreign policy is preventive diplomacy, exemplified by the establishment of the UN Regional Centre for Preventive Diplomacy for Central Asia (UNRCCA) in 2007 at the initiative of Ashgabat. The center serves as a unique platform for the peaceful resolution of disputes and conflict prevention in the region.

The Ambassador also emphasized the significance of 2025, which, at the initiative of Turkmenistan, was declared by the UN General Assembly as the International Year of Peace and Trust. As part of this initiative, Turkmenistan plans to host an international conference dedicated to peaceful coexistence, diplomacy, and building trust among states.

A particular focus of the lecture was on Turkmenistan’s role as a key transit hub at the crossroads of Europe and Asia. The Ambassador highlighted that the country is actively developing its transport infrastructure, including the Turkmenbashi International Seaport, making Turkmenistan a crucial link in the Eurasian transport network and strengthening trade ties between regions.

Discussion with Students: What Should Europeans Know About Turkmenistan?

Following the main lecture, an open discussion was held, during which students posed the question:
"What should European students know about Turkmenistan?"

In response, the Ambassador emphasized that Turkmenistan is a country with a unique geopolitical position, bordering both Central Asia and the Middle East through Iran. Despite its complex surroundings, Turkmenistan remains one of the most stable, peaceful, and secure countries in the region. This stability is a result of balanced policies, economic self-sufficiency, and a firm commitment to neutrality.

The Ambassador highlighted Turkmenistan’s active role in maintaining regional stability, its contribution to humanitarian initiatives, and its participation in major infrastructure projects. One of the most prominent examples is the construction of the TAPI (Turkmenistan-Afghanistan-Pakistan-India) gas pipeline, which aims not only to supply energy to the region but also to support Afghanistan’s economic integration by creating jobs and fostering the development of a peaceful economy.

Additionally, the Ambassador spoke about Turkmenistan’s rich cultural traditions, such as collective carpet weaving and communal bread baking in traditional clay ovens (tamdyr). These customs reflect the deep-rooted values of unity, mutual assistance, and respect for traditions among the Turkmen people. He noted that the principles of peace and trust, which Turkmenistan promotes on the international stage, have strong foundations in its national culture.

The lecture generated significant interest among students studying international relations and diplomatic affairs. During the open discussion, participants explored the prospects of neutrality in modern international relations and the significance of Turkmenistan’s role in global peace efforts.