Turkmenistan’s policy of Neutrality: in the name of peace and trust

On October 15–16, 2025 the Astana Think Tank Forum 2025 was held under the motto “From Polarization to Partnership: Restoring Trust in the International System.” The event was attended by representatives of government agencies, international organizations, and diplomatic missions accredited in the Republic of Kazakhstan to discuss contemporary challenges in world politics and ways to strengthen global cooperation.

On October 15, 2025, a specialized session entitled "Central Asian Forum on Security and Cooperation — Central Asia in the Changing Architecture of Global Security: Challenges and Opportunities" was held within the framework of the forum. During the session, the Ambassador of Turkmenistan to the Republic of Kazakhstan, B. Rejepov, dedicated his speech to the International Year of Peace and Trust, as well as to the 30th anniversary of Turkmenistan's Neutrality.

The session focused on the role of neutrality in ensuring sustainability and stability in Central Asia. It was noted that Turkmenistan's neutrality remains a key element of peaceful development both in the region and in the world as a whole. The Turkmen model of neutrality, recognized by the UN, serves as a striking example of the principles of independence, respect for sovereignty, and non-interference can be successfully combined with active peacemaking and diplomatic activities. In this context, Turkmenistan's initiative to establish the UN Regional Center for Preventive Diplomacy for Central Asia (UNRCCA) was recognized as a significant step towards strengthening trust and ensuring stability in the region. The active role of the Center in promoting peace initiatives received positive feedback from forum participants.

The importance of Turkmenistan’s neutral platform in promoting energy, transport, and environmental security, as well as the country’s role as a bridge between East and West, North and South, became a key focus of the event’s participants.

At the conclusion of the session, the forum participants expressed interest in learning Turkmenistan’s positive Neutrality as a unique model of foreign policy and an effective instrument for maintaining peace and stability.