Islamabad, October 30, 2025 – The Europe Today: The Gulf Observer and The Gulf Observer Research Forum and the Embassy of the Republic of Turkmenistan in Pakistan, organized a Round Table Conference at the National Language Promotion Department (NLPD), Islamabad, on 28th October, 2025 to commemorate the 30th Anniversary of Turkmenistan’s Permanent Neutrality — a cornerstone of Turkmenistan’s foreign policy and a beacon of peace, dialogue, and cooperation in the modern world. Ms. Fatima Tuz Zehra speech at the Round Table Conference held in Islamabad to commemorate the 30th Anniversary of Turkmenistan’s Neutrality in the Year of Peace and Trust 2025.
Speech by Ms. Fatima Tuz Zehra
Excellency Atadjan, Excellencies, Diplomats and Friends,
Aslaam o Alaikum,
“First of all, I extend my sincere congratulations to H.E. Atadjan on the dual celebration of 2025, commemorating 30 years of Turkmenistan’s neutrality and the International Year of Peace and Trust.”
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.
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.
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.
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.
Here, I want to mention that I have had privilege to attend the International Conference “Year of Peace and Trust: Development of International Activities for Sake of Children” held on 29th March, 2025 in the beautiful and peaceful city and was presided over by Her Excellency, Oguljahan Atabayeva, Vice President of medical activities of Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov Charitable Foundation for Assistance to Children in Need of Guardianship. The Conference was held in alignment with United Nations declared International Year of Peace and Trust, emphasizing the global commitment to fostering peace and trust for the benefit of children worldwide.
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 under the leadership of His Highness Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov and His Excellency President Serdar Berdimuhamedov. December 12 is celebrated in Turkmenistan as “Neutrality Day”, and this year marks the 30 years’ anniversary of the United Nations’ official recognition of its neutral status. This neutral status is firmly embedded in the country’s constitutional order.
“I once again extend my heartfelt congratulations to H.E. Atadjan on the dual celebration of 2025, commemorating 30 years of Turkmenistan’s neutrality and the International Year of Peace and Trust.”
Thank you,
