Turkmenistan’s Globally Significant Historical Initiatives Gain International Recognition

Turkmenistan’s Globally Significant Historical Initiatives Gain International Recognition

President of Turkmenistan Serdar Berdimuhamedov addressed the world from the high podium of the United Nations General Assembly.

Speaking during the general political debates of the 80th session of the UN General Assembly, our Head of State emphasized that the current international situation “requires concrete steps directed toward coordinated actions of states and international organizations in support of peace and security.” The President of Turkmenistan particularly highlighted that the country's neutral status remains a fundamental pillar of its foreign policy and continues to serve as an important tool for strengthening global stability.

Peace and Trust as Strategic Priorities

Turkmenistan proposed the inclusion of the item “Neutrality – for the sake of peace and security” into the agenda of the session. According to Serdar Berdimuhamedov, neutrality has proven its effectiveness as an active mechanism of the UN's peacebuilding strategy.

The President reminded that, based on an initiative put forward by Ashgabat earlier this year, 2025 was declared the Year of Peace and Trust. A high-level major forum dedicated to this significant event is planned to be held in Turkmenistan this December. The Head of State also proposed hosting a World Summit on Culture, Peace, and Trust, as well as developing an International Code of Trust as a foundation for intergovernmental relations.

Central Asia and the Role of Cultural Dialogue

The President of Turkmenistan characterized Central Asia as a region that has served “for centuries as a bridge of civilizations between East and West,” emphasizing the region’s potential. He proposed, in cooperation with the UN and with the participation of countries from the region, other states, and international institutions, to organize an international forum titled “The Space of Peaceful Coexistence.”

As another significant initiative, he proposed proclaiming an International Day of Mediation, emphasizing the role of diplomacy and neutral platforms in the peaceful resolution of conflicts.

Sustainable Development, Transport, and Energy

The Head of State reaffirmed Turkmenistan’s commitment to implementing the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development and proposed declaring a UN Decade of Sustainable Transport (2026–2035).

President Serdar Berdimuhamedov stated:

“This step will help unite the efforts of the global community in developing transport corridors and ensuring their accessibility for all states.”

Turkmenistan also presented a draft resolution titled “The Key Role of Reliable and Stable Energy Connectivity in Achieving Sustainable Development,” and proposed creating a World Digital Integration Platform.

Environment and Climate

The President of Turkmenistan announced an initiative to establish a Regional Center for Combating Desertification in Central Asia. Among other important proposals were hosting a Caspian Environmental Forum in 2026 and further developing earlier Caspian environmental initiatives proposed by Ashgabat.

In addition, Turkmenistan suggested proclaiming an International Day of Multilingual Diplomacy, underlining the importance of respect for linguistic and cultural diversity.

Cooperation with the UN

Serdar Berdimuhamedov described cooperation with the United Nations as a strategic priority for Turkmenistan. He specifically emphasized that the UN is “the only universal organization with global legal authority.”

In support of strengthening the legal foundations of international peace and cooperation, the Head of State proposed declaring 2028 as the Year of International Law.