ISLAMABAD: For three decades, Turkmenistan’s policy of permanent neutrality has served as a model for diplomatic balance, fostering regional stability, economic cooperation, and global peace initiatives.

Neutrality is not a passive stance but an active diplomatic approach that fosters peace, stability, and economic cooperation in an increasingly polarised world.

Turkmenistan’s model of permanent neutrality, recognised by the United Nations, serves as an effective tool for conflict resolution, regional integration, and global mediation.

Positive neutrality allows states to engage with diverse international actors, promoting trust, non-interference, and balanced foreign relations. Amid rising global tensions and shifting alliances, adopting a neutral foreign policy has enhanced

Turkmenistan’s diplomatic leverage, trade opportunities, and security partnerships while preventing entanglement in major power rivalries.

These were the remarks by the speakers during the International Conference on “The Role of Neutrality in Strengthening International Peace,” organised by the Embassy of Turkmenistan to Pakistan in collaboration with the Institute of Peace and Diplomatic Studies (IPDS) on the occasion of three decades of Turkmenistan’s global initiative to declare 2025 as the “International Year of Peace and Trust”, which was unanimously adopted at the UN General Assembly with the co-sponsorship of 86 nations, including Pakistan.

Speaking on the occasion, Tariq Fazal Choudhary, Federal Minister for Parliamentary Affairs praised the Turkmenistan’s permanent neutrality and said it has reaffirmed Pakistan’s commitment to strengthening diplomatic, economic, and cultural ties with Turkmenistan.

He noted that both nations share common goals in energy security, trade expansion, and regional connectivity through initiatives like the TAPI gas pipeline.

He commended Turkmenistan’s leadership in promoting multilateral cooperation and peace diplomacy. Atadjan Movlamov, Ambassador of Turkmenistan to Pakistan and Dean of the Diplomatic Corps in his welcome remarks highlighted the contours of the Turkmenistan’s dedication towards fostering peace, stability, and economic development.

He further highlighted Turkmenistan’s initiatives in energy, trade, and cultural diplomacy, strengthening bilateral cooperation with Pakistan.

Dr Farhat Asif, President of IPDS, opened the conference by highlighting the importance of Turkmenistan’s neutrality in shaping international peace efforts.

She emphasized that neutrality is not passive but an active diplomatic strategy that enhances global cooperation. She noted that Turkmenistan’s commitment to neutrality has allowed the country to play a constructive role in regional economic projects and peace initiatives.

UN Resident Coordinator and Humanitarian Coordinator in Pakistan Mohamed Yahya stressed the significance of neutrality in global diplomacy.

He noted that Turkmenistan’s diplomatic approach aligns with the UN’s peacekeeping efforts, contributing to regional stability and conflict prevention.

He highlighted the importance of diplomatic neutrality in fostering economic partnerships and sustainable development. Dr. Khurram Iqbal, Head of the International Relations Department at the National Defense University, provided an academic perspective on neutrality, emphasizing its role in conflict resolution and regional stability.

He pointed out that Turkmenistan’s neutrality enables it to act as a mediator in international conflicts and economic negotiations.

He highlighted the importance of Pakistan-Turkmenistan collaboration in security, trade, and regional peace efforts.

Dr. Taraq Waheed, Head of the Department of Social Sciences at SZABIST, emphasized the impact of neutrality on cultural diplomacy and economic development.

He highlighted Turkmenistan’s proactive role in fostering regional economic projects and its commitment to peaceful coexistence.

He called for greater academic and research collaborations between Pakistan and Turkmenistan to enhance bilateral understanding and engagement.

Participants reaffirmed the need and commitment for continued engagement in trade, energy, and cultural partnerships, strengthening the historical ties between Pakistan and Turkmenistan.

The event was followed by exchange of souvenirs and iftar dinner and was attended by large number of diplomats and members of the civil society.

Published in Dawn, March 17th, 2025