Turkmenistan

“Publishing from Pakistan, United Kingdom/EU & will be soon from UAE , Central Africa, Central Asia & Asia Paciﬁc” Member APNS, CPNE Central Media List A Largest, Widely Circulated Diplomatic Magazine | www.diplomaticfocus.org | www.diplomaticfocus-uk.com | Member Diplomatic Council

/diplomaticfocusofficial /dip_focus 25th ANNIVERSARY OF THE PERMANENT NEUTRALITY OF TURKMENISTAN

H.E. Mr. Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov President of Turkmenistan STATE EMBLEM OF TURKMENISTAN

STATE FLAG OF TURKMENISTAN THE NATIONAL ANTHEM OF TURKMENISTAN

I am ready to give life for our native hearth The spirit of ancestors descendants are famous for. My land is sacred, my flag flies in the world A symbol of the great neutral country flies,

Refrain: The forever great creation of the people The native land, the sovereign state Forever, the light and song of the soul, Long live and prosper, Turkmenistan!

My nation is united and in veins of tribes Our ancestors’ blood, undying flows. Storms and misfortunes of times are not dreadful for us, Let us increase fame and honour.

Refrain: The forever great creation of the people Native land, the sovereign state Forever, the light and song of the soul, Long live and prosper, Turkmenistan! 2020 YEAR TURKMENISTAN - HOME OF NEUTRALITY 25th ANNIVERSARY OF THE PERMANENT NEUTRALITY OF TURKMENISTAN RBI Mediaminds Contents Group of Publications Electronic & Print Media Production House

09 THE PRESIDENT OF TURKMENISTAN PARTICIPATES IN THE FORUM Group Chairman/CEO: Mian Fazal Elahi DEDICATED TO COOPERATION WITH INTERNATIONAL ORGANIZATIONS Chief Editor Hon: Mian Akhtar Hussain Editor/Publisher: Mian Fazal Elahi 17 STATEMENT BY THE PRESIDENT OF TURKMENISTAN AT THE 75TH SESSION Executive Editor: M Bilal Zafar Group Editor: Saeed Yousafzai OF THE UNITED NATIONS GENERAL ASSEMBLY Associate Honorary Editor: Zanib Arshad 20 SCIENTIFIC-PRACTICAL CONFERENCE DEDICATED TO THE 25TH Director Marketing: Mian Furqan Akhtar Editor in Chief UK/EU Edition: Mian Assadullah ANNIVERSARY OF PERMANENT NEUTRALITY OF TURKMENISTAN AND THE Justin Plaza 3, 341London Road, Mit cham, Surrey-CR4 4BE DAY OF DIPLOMATS OF TURKMENISTAN WAS HELD Editor Germany, EU Edition: Mian Mubeen Akhtar 22 VIDEO MEETING OF THE PRESIDENT OF TURKMENISTAN WITH THE Office Manager: Rana Bilal Ahmed Creative Art Director: M.Shahbaz Nawaz, RN Scanner DIRECTOR GENERAL OF WHO Art Director: Sharyar Fazil Web Developer: Muhammad Wajahat 23 PRESIDENT OF TURKMENISTAN HELD A TELEPHONE CONVERSATION WITH Chief Photographer: Ramzan Mughal

THE PRESIDENT OF THE ISLAMIC REPUBLIC OF PAKISTAN Copenhagen Denmark Fazal Hussain 004540521485 24 PRESIDENT GURBANGULY BERDIMUHAMEDOV: ADOPTION OF THE Email: [email protected] Javed Iqbal Butt Bureau Chief Australia, Newzealand CONSTITUTIONAL LAW WILL BE WRITTEN IN GOLD LETTERS TO THE Board of Advisors CHRONICLE OF THE NATION General (R) Talat Masood, Ambassador (R) Tassaduq Hussain, Ambassador 33 EVENTS ON THE OCCASION OF THE 29TH ANNIVERSARY OF THE (R) Arif Mehmmod, Mr. Kanwar Muhammad Tariq, Ambassador(R), INDEPENDENCE OF TURKMENISTAN Mr. Tariq Hyder, Ambassador(R) Fozia Nasreen, Ambassador(R) Javed Hassan, Maria Sultan, Kanwar Muhammad Dilshad (EX-Federal Secretary)Chaudhry 38 BRIEFING DEDICATED TO COOPERATION OF TURKMENISTAN WITH THE Faisal Mushtaq (Thagma-e-Imtiaz), Dr. Mirza ikhtiar Baig (Thagma-e-Imtiaz), Shoukat Paracha, Malik Yousaf Ali, Ex-Ambassador, Mian Anwar-Ul-Haq Ramay, INTERNATIONAL ORGANIZATIONS IN THE AREA OF HEALTHCARE WAS HELD Ex-Parliamentarian, Ilyas Ahmed Chaudhry, CR Shamsi, Fozia Shahid, Mateen Haider, IN THE MFA, TURKMENISTAN Captian (R) Wasif, Mian Mahmood Hon: Council General Republic of Moldova

40 ONLINE DIPLOMATIC COURSES ON THE TOPIC NEUTRALITY OF Bureau Office Qaisar Masood Muhammad Athar TURKMENISTAN - FOR THE SAKE OF PEACE, STABILITY AND SUSTAINABLE Northern Virginia Georgia DEVELOPMENT Israr Masood M. Jamil Rathore Sydney Australia Bureau Chief Jeddah KSA 44 POLICY OF NEUTRALITY PLATFORM OF ECONOMIC INTEGRATION Rana Salman Shahid Cell: +966-502583608 Vehari 48 INTERNATIONAL ECOLOGICAL INITIATIVES OF NEUTRAL TURKMENISTAN Mr. Muhammad Muzzammilullah Maan Brussels (Belgium) 50 THE POLICY OF GOOD NEIGHBORLINESS, PEACE-LOVING AND Printer SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT Roohani Art Press, Street no. 1, Service Road Muhammadi Town, Sohan 52 THE “TURKMEN MODEL” OF NEUTRALITY near Express High Way, Islamabad. 54 POLICY OF NEUTRALITY – SYMBOL OF TRANQUILITY Publisher Mian Fazal Elahi, House No 263-C, Street 87, Sector E-11/2 Islamabad. 58 NEUTRALITY OF TURKMENISTAN: HISTORICAL SIGNIFICANCE AND LEGAL Tel: +92-51-2163092, 2163070, News Room: +92-51-2163029 BASIS Mobile: +92-345-5565552, +92-322-5565552 Email: [email protected], [email protected] 60 NEUTRALITY OF TURKMENISTAN AS AN EFFECTIVE INSTRUMENT OF www.diplomaticfocus.org STRENGTHENING INTERNATIONAL PEACE Karachi Office: Mobile: +92-331-5155515 64 THE ROLE OF PERMANENT NEUTRALITY IN THE DEVELOPMENT OF EDUCATION SYSTEM IN TURKMENISTAN Price Pakistan Rs.1000 Middle East 50 Saudi Riyal 66 PERMANENT NEUTRALITY - THE MAINSTAY OF THE ENERGY INDUSTRY UK £ 8 Schengen State €10 Chinese Yuan: 75 Canada: $15 68 FOREVER NEUTRALITY– IS THE FOUNDATION OF LASTING PEACE USA: $12 70 WELL-INTENTIONED NEUTRALITY AND NEIGHBORHOOD RELATIONS Published from Islamabad 72 NEUTRAL TURKMENISTAN IS A CENTER OF PEACE AND SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT IN THE REGION

06 Diplomatic Focus December 2020 www.diplomaticfocus.org www.diplomaticfocus.org Email: [email protected],[email protected] Ipswich Road,SW179RH,London.Cellnumber:+44-7961005954/ 2087694850, officials of UK, please contact with Mr. Mian Assad Ullah on His mailing address, 4 advertisements etc).Itisrequested high toallDiplomaticmissionsandgovernment and canbecontactedforallkindsofstuff includingarticles,supplementsand events, nationaldays,socialevenings/gatherings, press conferences/interviews Edition. Heisentitledtoparticipateofficial /non-officials diplomatic(engagements, been appointedasEditorInChiefoftheMonthly “DiplomaticFocus”fortheUK/EU It hasbeenannouncedforthegeneralinformationthatMr. MianAssadUllahhas Important Announcement Our previous Issues these writings maythese not necessarily match of Editor/Publisher/Organization. views the the The columns,articles, Opinions are published in faith.Magazine in good However,the contents of on the happy occasion of the 25th anniversary of permanent Neutrality of Turkmenistan. On behalf of Pakistani nation, The “Diplomatic Focus” wishes toextend heartiest greetings demonstrated thiswithcomplete proof. occasions security.Further and harmony of states the in improvement individuals’ and states’ the of interests Nations, United the of objectives out drawn the meets it that has demonstrated Time of Turkmenistan.”. Neutrality “Permanent on Resolution the embraced collectively Assembly General Nations United the 1995, 12, December On prominent countries ofCentral Asiabecause ofvisionregional connectivity. was respectively.2015 and 1995 the in of twice adopted one becoming also Turkmenistan is which resolution UN by adopted and of “Positive worldwide appreciated is policy that itsNeutrality” iconic to due resolution conflict and development, harmony, its relations with the countries are remarkable due to its leading role in peace initiatives, rolea bridgeforof because became of possible only regional thing this connectivity and Regional connectivity is the key pillarof Turkmenistan foreign policy. Turkmenistan plays military organizations andtreaties. respect for their autonomy and territorial integrity, nonparticipation to the international countries, other of affairs the in noninterference peace-loving, like ideologies essential status framed neutralitypositive its the perfect and of added a selectedtrack which has Turkmenistan.Turkmenistanof policy foreign the in Neutrality permanent preceding in This is certainly a significant era, in the history of Turkmenistan and a great accomplishment the 25th anniversary of international recognition of the neutrality status of Turkmenistan. In the current year, Turkmenistan together with theworld community widelycelebrated

Diplomatic FocusRs. 9840/Year (Including CourierCharges) Mian FazalElahi For FurtherdetailEmail:[email protected] Modeling Dramas Cultural Affairs Telefilms Advertising Events Shots Events Managements Films Documentaries Publications Diplomatic Focus Annual Subscriptionof Editorial December 2020 07 2020 Year - Turkmenistan - Home of Neutrality

08 Diplomatic Focus December 2020 www.diplomaticfocus.org 25th Anniversary of the Permanent Neutrality of Turkmenistan

The President of Turkmenistan participates in the forum dedicated to cooperation with international organizations International conference “Turkmenistan and neutral state. Today, we do it together with reminded that it was Ashgabat, which hosted International organizations: Cooperation for our friends and partners who represents big number of talks under the UN aegis, which peace and development” with participation of and competent international organizations. We played an important role in achievement of President Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov was are interested in and appreciate your opinions peace and harmony in Tajikistan. held in Ashgabat on January 14, 2020. The and recommendations, President Gurbanguly The capital of our neutral state became the forum was dedicated to the celebration of the Berdimuhamedov said. place of negotiations on regulation of Afghan 25th anniversary of neutrality of Turkmenistan. The Head of the State noted special importance conflict in the end of the 90s of the last century. The representatives of respected international of this in the context of preparation to Turkmenistan became a reliable ally and effective organizations arrived to Ashgabat to attend the International High-level Conference “Policy of partner of the UN in protection and support of Conference. Also, the heads and representatives Neutrality and its Importance in Provision of political stability in the region, development of the Government of Turkmenistan, regional Peace, Security and Sustainable Development”, of good neighbourliness, friendship and executives of international organizations, which is planned to be held in Ashgabat on cooperation. This was indicated by the decision including the UN, OSCE, EU, World Bank, December 12 this year. of the world community with support of all EBRD, ADB and others, as well as the chiefs of After, Head of the State Gurbanguly countries of the region on opening of the UN diplomatic corps accredited in Ashgabat and Berdimuhamedov referred to the history of Regional Centre of Preventive Diplomacy for representatives of local and foreign mass media neutrality of our country. For Turkmenistan, Central Asia in Ashgabat in 2007. participated to the event. which gained independence in complicated We accepted it as a huge responsibility and Speaking at the opening of the Conference, conditions of fundamental changes of entire at the same time, as an evidence of the trust the President of Turkmenistan noted that system of international relations, the selection given to Turkmenistan by the United Nations being an active member of international life, of foreign course was one of the most important Organization, the Head of the State said. Turkmenistan proposes number of international subjects, the President said. initiatives on current issues of modern time Today, Turkmen neutrality is an important factor What this course would be, how do we build for deserving contribution to provision of of regional security. Its fundamental principles relations with the world community, on sustainable development and prosperity on fully comply with strategic directions of the UN what principles do we develop international global level, the Head of the State said. in Central Asia, which are aimed at turning of the cooperation? region into the place of peace and cooperation, Being a supporter of bilateral and multilateral The history has numerous samples when strong link of continental stability. In this cooperation, our country sets objectives, mistakes in choosing of foreign model have led context, the UN can always rely on support of which are very important for current and to loss of real sovereignty of the states, their Turkmenistan, which use political and diplomatic future generation and tries to achieve them on involvement to the sphere of interests, which methods for creation of atmosphere of different levels, in particular under international ae far from true goals of national development. understanding and trust, favourable conditions organizations. for equal and constructive partnership, President Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov Therefore, Turkmenistan does not stop only President Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov said. highlighted that Turkmenistan has chosen the at proposal of important initiatives aimed at model, which was named a positive neutrality Turkmenistan sees assertion of the culture expansion of wide international partnership and and specified its fundamental provisions, which of dialog as its priority objective as a neutral meeting fundamental interests of all countries are peace-loving, non-interference in affairs state during solution of arising issues and and nations but also takes measures for their of other states, respect of their sovereignty confrontations. As is known, the UN General practical implementation. This is indicated by and territorial integrity, noon-involvement in Assembly with co-authorship of 73 member the current meeting, the Head of the State international military organizations and treaties. states has unanimously adopted the Resolution noted. initiated by Turkmenistan on declaration of 2021 We started to pursue sovereign neutral but at Speaking of the agenda of the meeting, President as International Year of Peace and Trust. the same time an active and constructive foreign Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov informed that policy. Therefore, it is no wonder that the world In this context, our country will develop subjects related to national and common has accepted our efforts for strengthening of and present proposals on conducting of interests would be reviewed. The participants neutrality of Turkmenistan as international and International Year and of Peace and Trust with will exchange their views and outline joint work legal status with friendliness and understanding. maximum practical benefit for the efforts of for in the nearest future on these subjects. Our country received support from the provision of peace and security to the UN for This year, our country and the world neighbouring countries at first and after in Non- review, the President of Turkmenistan informed, community will celebrate the 25th anniversary alignment Movement. having noted that we hope for close cooperation of international recognition of the status of with relative structures of the UN and other On December 12, 1995, the United Nations neutrality of Turkmenistan. This important date international organizations during formation of General Assembly has unanimously adopted is a remarkable event in independent history of these initiatives and their further realization. the Resolution on Permanent Neutrality of Turkmen state, a milestone in its foreign policy, Turkmenistan. During the last session of the UN General the President highlighted. Assembly, Turkmenistan proposed initiative on President Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov At the same time, this is a good reason to development of set of rules on application of the highlighted that neutrality of Turkmenistan has think over way, which was made for the principles of neutrality in provision of peace and become a significant factor of international quarter of the century, to give assessment to security. We considers that this is very useful peace-making efforts in our region, having current development of Turkmenistan as a initiative and look forward for your support in www.diplomaticfocus.org Diplomatic Focus December 2020 09 2020 Year - Turkmenistan - Home of Neutrality

its implementation, the Head of the State said shown that force methods are non-productive direction is provided not only by commercial addressing to the participants of the forum. and have no future in this case. and economic benefits but also by intent to provide rapprochement of the states to create This document can be used by international Throughout many years, Turkmenistan provides the atmosphere of trust and predictability in community as an effective mechanism for specific addressed economic and humanitarian relations between them. prevention of possible confrontations, non- support to Afghanistan. It is expressed in admittance of their escalations into war, for construction of medical and educational In its turn, it will support to expansion of turning of conflict processes into peaceful facilities in neighbouring country, beneficial economic relations between the countries, negotiation stream. supplies of electricity, study of Afghan students practical implementation of the principles of in Turkmen educational institutes, regular transparency and equality in international Recently, we have also proposed to establish the humanitarian cargos to Afghanistan, other economic cooperation. These foundations Group of friends of neutrality for the interests support and assistance. All of these is financed have been laid to the activity of international of peace and security, President Gurbanguly by Turkmenistan from its own funds. organizations of economic, financial and Berdimuhamedov continued, having expressed investment orientation. the willingness for close cooperation with all The President assured Afghan friends and sides, which are interested in promotion of this international community that such support President Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov initiative. would be continued on systematic base expressed the willingness of Turkmenistan according to special programme developed in in activation of cooperation between such The Head of the state made special mention that Turkmenistan. international financial institutes as the World Turkmenistan has always been and remains to Bank, Asian Development Bank, European be an active participant of international efforts Having noted that special attention is paid to Bank for Reconstruction and Development, for combating against modern challenges and economic aspect of Turkmen neutrality these Islamic Development Bank. Last year, we have threats, and highlighted solid position of our days, which implies creation of conditions for also enforced our work on study of rules and country in counteracting of terrorism, combating rapid social and economic growth of our country, procedures to join the World Trade Organization, against illegal drug and human trafficking. development of its beneficial foreign economic the Head of the State added. and trade relations, President Gurbanguly Turkmen leader highlighted that support of Berdimuhamedov highlighted that the The Head of the State outlined execution of reconciliation processes in Afghanistan receives neutrality guarantees from any politicization of the Agenda of the Sustainable Development, special importance today. The Head of the such cooperation and provides equal treatment where Turkmenistan is also willing to share the State confirmed the position of Turkmenistan: of all foreign partners. experience gained in this direction, as another as a neutral state and close neighbour of subject of exchange of opinions. Afghanistan, our country is willing to provide Provisions of Turkmenistan’s neutrality, non- necessary conditions for establishment of confrontational outlook, our strict adherence The President said that today, important peaceful dialog on Afghanistan. There is no the UN Chapter and international regulatory parameters of the Sustainable Development alternative to negotiation process, the President standards are completely reflected in realization Goals are inherently integrated to the of Turkmenistan said. Previous practice has of international projects of the country. Their Programme of social and economic development

10 Diplomatic Focus December 2020 www.diplomaticfocus.org 25th Anniversary of the Permanent Neutrality of Turkmenistan of Turkmenistan in 2019 – 2025. Implementation international law, mutual respect and interests General for Central Asia, of the SDGs in economic part of the Programme of all countries of the region with participation Head of the UN Regional is to ensure universal access of the population of international organizations. Centre of Preventive to cheap, reliable and modern energy provision, Diplomacy for Central Asia The Head of the State noted that in general, stable economic growth and full occupancy, Natalya Gherman. we expect continuation of constructive dialog establishment of flexible infrastructure, support on the issues of the Sustainable Development The UN welcomes important and timely of stable industrialization and promotion of Goals, which provide consolidation of efforts on initiatives of President of Turkmenistan innovations. Big attention is paid to widespread international, regional and national levels. Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov, which are digitization of the economy. aimed not only at consolidated cooperation In this context, firm confidence in expansion Implementation of the Sustainable Development and solution of the main issues of regional and of partnership between Turkmenistan and the Goals in Turkmenistan has brightly expressed global agenda but also at the assertion of the UN Development Programme, UNICEF, World direction. This is about such important aspects as central role of the UN in the subjects of peace, Health Organization, UN Population Fund, provision of food abundance and improvement security and sustainable development in the the UN Environment Programme and other of nutrition of the population, widespread region and on global level, Mrs Gherman said. specialized establishments and institutes of the assertion of healthy life style, provision of full United Nations has been expressed. Special Representative of the UN Secretary gender equality, creation of conditions for General noted that following the course of inclusive fair and qualitative education. Cooperation of our country with the UNESCO is neutrality, Turkmenistan has not only achieved one of priority subjects of international agenda of Starting implementation of national plans in significant results in different spheres but Turkmenistan in the context of implementation different spheres of the economy and social also has made a significant contribution to of the UN Agenda 2030, President Gurbanguly sphere, Turkmenistan correlates them with strengthening of peace and stability in Central Berdimuhamedov said further. ecological component of the SDGs strictly and Asia. It can be confidently stated that choice of responsibly. For this purpose, the country starts We plan to take efforts for realization of potential Turkmenistan was prompt and well-grounded using modern eco-friendly and resource-saving of cooperation with the UNESCO in such spheres and the model of foreign political development technologies in all spheres of the economy – as education, science, ecology and sports in the of the country was the most optimum and in industry, agriculture, transport and other nearest future, Turkmen leader said. meeting national interests, long-term goals of spheres. the world community and principles of the UN The President of Turkmenistan has focused on Chapter, she highlighted. We have always clearly stated out positions in humanitarian problems. As is known, for number this subject: the ecology and environment have of years, Turkmenistan cooperates closely and Natalya Gherman highly appreciated Turkmen not to be hostages of commercial benefits, comprehensively with relative international idea on development of the UN Code of Practice no matter how attractive they seemed to be, organizations for improvement of democratic on effective use of the principles of neutrality President Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov said, institutes in the country, effective fulfilment of during regulation of international issues and having highlighted that provision of sustainable its obligations in human rights sphere. provision of peace and security as well as development of the country, improvement initiative on organization of wide multilateral At the same time, Turkmen leader Gurbanguly of quality of life of the population are directly dialog on practical implementation of the Berdimuhamedov made special mention related to the solution of ecological objectives principles of neutrality under the UN aegis for that realization of principle “State for Human in the region. prevention of conflicts, elimination of their Being!”, which is aimed at creation of maximum root causes and consequences, solution of Saving of Aral Sea is one of the main objectives. favourable conditions for comprehensive reveal humanitarian issues. Our terms in this direction have been discussed of potential of human individuality, is the main in details at the Summit of the Heads of the one in our joint work. Mrs Gherman said that assuming the post of the States, the Founders of International Fund UN Secretary General in the beginning of 2017, We confirm our intent in activation of partnership for Saving of Aral Sea (IFAS) in Turkmenbashy Antonio Guterres proposed his vision of the UN with such international structures as the Office in August 2019 and certain agreements have activity where the utmost place was given to of the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights, been reached. Therefore, important steps preventive diplomacy. as the Office of the UN High Commissioner for toward improvement of activity of IFAS and Refugees, International Migration Organization, In this regard, it was noted that the Regional improvement of its effectiveness have been International Labour Organization, International Centre has become one of the first structures of made. Federation of Red Crescent and Red Cross the UN, which was to use and promote preventive The President of Turkmenistan urged to move in Societies and other humanitarian structures, the diplomacy as a tool of support of interstate this direction more actively, to involve potential Head of the State said. dialog and development of cooperation of international community, first the UN and between the countries. In this context, Natalya The neutrality of Turkmenistan is a reality its specialized structures, wider. We proposed Gherman highlighted the currency of the thesis of today and our future, which opens new an initiative on development of the UN Special of President of Turkmenistan Gurbanguly opportunities for development of wide Programme for Aral Sea basin and allocation of Berdimuhamedov that positive neutrality and international partnership in all directions. Aral Sea problems in separate direction of the preventive diplomacy go together. Prevention Following strict commitment to undertaken UN activity. is our common goal for provision of peace and international obligations, we affirm with all stability in Central Asian region and on global It is necessary to concentrate more on the responsibility about our willingness to wide level. efforts of Central Asian states and international and active cooperation with international structures in provision of equal and fair access organizations for achievement of universal The Head of the RCPDCA has also noted that in to water resources, the President continued. creative goals, the Head of the State summed 2020 when the 25th anniversary of permanent The position of Turkmenistan in this subject up. neutrality of Turkmenistan symbolically falls is well known to all: we consider that review on the 75th anniversary of the United Nations After, the President of Turkmenistan gave floor and solution of water management issues Organization, under the celebration of this to Special Representative of the UN Secretry have to made on the base of the standards of anniversary, the UN Secretary General Antonio www.diplomaticfocus.org Diplomatic Focus December 2020 11 2020 Year - Turkmenistan - Home of Neutrality

Guterres has initiated and She has also noted that Turkmenistan is one of look through he prism of neutrality as global invited all to participate in the advanced countries in implementation of the challenges of sustainable development, the UN large-scale and open global Sustainable Development Goals. According to representative said. discussion on the subject of her, the main achievement in this aspect is that Having expressed gratitude to Elena Panova for the role of international cooperation in the country has laid firm systematic foundation substantial speech, the President highlighted building of the future we want. for the SDGs, having established national that membership in the United Nations coordination mechanism and included goals and In this context, the idea of President Gurbanguly Organization, active participation in its activity objectives of the SDGs into the Programme of Berdimuhamedov on organization of in implementation of the Global Agenda for the President for 2019 – 2025. International High-level Conference in Ashgabat sustainable development are the main priorities on December 12 is very current especially on The Permanent Coordinator has presented the of home and foreign policy of Turkmenistan. the threshold of 2021, which is declared as main priorities of 2020 to the participants of Turkmen leader gave floor to the Head of the International Year of Peace and Trust by initiative the forum, realization of which would held to OSCE Centre in Ashgabat Natalya Drozd. of Turkmenistan. accelerate the achievement of the SDGs in the country, it includes support in mobilization of The OSCE Centre in Ashgabat, which has marked Natalya Gherman expressed confidence that financing for achievement of the Sustainable its 20th anniversary last year, established representative forum in Ashgabat would be a Development Goals. constructive cooperation with the Government substantive part of the process of definition of of Turkmenistan. The Head of the centre the future of the UN that we want, to which In her speech, Mrs Panova suggested to establish highlighted the most remarkable achievements international community has to strive. This is joint coordination mechanism for attraction of joint work for the last years. For example, related not only to Central Asian region but also of foreign investments and financial resources 4,000 representatives of the government thee the world in general, which experiences of international banks for implementation authorities, academic circles, mass media and hard times from the consolidation point of view. of the SDGs in the country. Participation of public organizations have become participants international financial establishments and big Turkmenistan and the UN will have to face of our training events in 2018 – 2019. international companies is expected. big and fruitful work for further promotion Natalya Drozd Highly appreciated contribution of started initiatives, development of existing Support in improvement of statistical reporting of Turkmenistan to strengthening of economic formats and platforms of cooperation as well on the Sustainable Development Goals is stability in the region, having also noted joint as intensification of the dialog in all main another priority direction. It was noted that activity for promotion of effective management spheres for the interests of peace, stability and huge work has been done with the State of trade and transport, innovative technologies sustainable development, Mrs Gherman said in Statistics Committee for development of for sustainable management of water resources, the end. national database on indicators in the sphere of development of renewable sources of energy sustainable development. Having expressed gratitude to the Special and energy-saving technologies as well as Representative of the UN Secretary General Development of new Framework Programme of for realization of international obligations of for substantive speech, President Gurbanguly cooperation between Turkmenistan and the UN Turkmenistan in the sphere of ecological safety, Berdimuhamedov highlighted that being in 2021 – 2025 is another priority. Consultations which is one of the priorities of the policy of the state hosting the Headquarter of the UN for development of this document have started President Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov. Regional Centre of Preventive Diplomacy last year and three directions of cooperation – In humanitarian aspect, the OSCE Centre actively for Central Asia, Turkmenistan pays special improvement of efficiency in the sphere of the cooperates with the office of the Ombudsman attention to promotion of peace-making agenda, government administration by digitization and of Turkmenistan, supports in fulfilment of establishment of multilateral cooperation in promotion of human rights; development of National Action Plan in Human Rights sphere the sphere of early prevention of conflicts the economy taking into account the climate and National Action Plan for provision of gender and confrontations, elimination of challenges change; quality services in health protection, equality in 2015 – 2020. and threats, establishment of reliable base for education and social protection sphere, have peace, security and development. been defined in the result. The OSCE has been providing long support in the sphere of development of mass media. Speaking For almost 12 years of its activity, the Regional Special attention in new Framework Programme of perspectives of cooperation this year, the Centre has recommended itself as an effective will be paid to involvement of youth to Head of the OSCE Centre noted that realization link between the United Nations and Central implementation of the SDGs and development of Plan of joint projects, which provides Asian countries in solution of many issues, the of youth policy. Intensification of joint activity dozens of events with relative ministries and Head of the State said. of different UN agencies will be another special departments of Turkmenistan, starts in 2020. feature of the Programme. After, the Head of the State Gurbanguly In the end, Natalya Drozd expressed gratitude Berdimuhamedov gave floor for speech to the In this regard, Elena Panova made proposal to to President Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov for UN Permanent Coordinator in Turkmenistan develop actual mechanism for encouragement trust, permanent support and comprehensive Mrs Elena Panova. of joint projects between the UN and the assistance to cooperation. Government of Turkmenistan. Having gained significant experience of Having expressed gratitude for the speech, development as a neutral state, which status On behalf of the UN Mission in Turkmenistan, Turkmen leader noted that our country was confirmed by two Resolutions of the UN Mrs Panova expressed support to initiative of traditionally pays special attention to close General Assembly, Turkmenistan offers the President Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov on partnership with the Organization for Security world to use the concept of neutrality as a tool organization of International Conference for and Cooperation in Europe. The President stated to protect peace and promotion of sustainable subjects of Peace, Security and Sustainable with delight that for the last several years, our development. We are willing to support Development, which was made at the 74th cooperation with the OSCE in these directions Turkmenistan in promotion of the principles of session of the UN General Assembly. The is developed dynamically. Connections with neutrality, the high-rank UN representative said. theme of this forum is consonant with the such structures as the Office for Democratic activities in the world; it allowed having better

12 Diplomatic Focus December 2020 www.diplomaticfocus.org 25th Anniversary of the Permanent Neutrality of Turkmenistan

Institutions and Human Rights, the UN High Office in Turkmenistan for substantial speech, adopted on October 6, Commissioner on National Minorities, the President Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov 2019, which outlines that Representative on Freedom of the Media. highlighted that European direction is one the UN Department on of important vectors of foreign policy of the Drugs and Crime is one of the The Head of the State gave floor for the speech country. main partners in realization of to the Chargé d’affaires of the European Union this action plan. Representative Office in Turkmenistan Mr After, the President of Turkmenistan gave floor Lubomir Frebort. to Head of the UN Regional Office on Drugs and Having expressed gratitude to Mrs Ashita Mittal Crime Mrs Ashita Mittal. for her speech, the President gave floor to Head The European Union respects and appreciates of the UN Cluster Office, Mr Svetan Svetkovsky. the status of Turkmenistan, its policy of Expressing gratitude to the Government of permanent positive neutrality, which is selected Turkmenistan for support in promotion of In his speech, he noted that Turkmenistan is as the base of foreign course of the country, the the agenda of the UNDDC in counteracting one of the first countries, which has completed EU representative highlighted. of transnational organized crime, illegal drug Voluntary National Review of the progress in trafficking and prevention of terrorism, Mrs achievement of the Sustainable Development 2019 was very important in relations between Mittal noted that today as never before, the Goals. This review demonstrates an integrated the European Union and Turkmenistan, which is principles of neutrality occupy central place in approach of the country to implementation of our important and respected partner in Central provision of peace, security and stability in the the SDGs in the sphere of the UNESCO authority. Asia, Lubomir Frebort highlighted. Opening planet. of the EU Representative Office in Ashgabat in Cooperation between Turkmenistan and the the middle of the last year has become a top She has also highlighted historical role UNESCO in the last four years was focused on event in our relations and demonstration of the of Turkmenistan in launch of the UNDDC implementation of the SDGs in the sphere of EU interest in strengthening and expansion of Programme for Central Asian states in 2015 – education, natural, social and humanitarian relations with Turkmenistan. 2020, which has been signed in Ashgabat on studies, culture, communication and May 15, 2015 by all five countries of the region information. Turkmenistan took active part in Enhancement of the level of our relations as the main framework document on technical development of the SDGs in these directions allows us expanding political and economic cooperation in the region. and is one of the first countries, which officially sections of joint efforts in strategic fields such as adopted and included them into national plans security, energy, climate change, environment, Ashita Mittal has highly appreciated initiative and development strategies, Mr Svetkovsky diversification of the economy and development of Head of Turkmenistan Gurbanguly said. of private sector, supremacy of law, human Berdimuhamedov on bringing of collaboration rights and many other, the EU representative to more practical level under recently The UNESCO held its 40th General Conference continued. signed Roadmap on further development of and adopted the Programme and Budget cooperation between the country and the for 2020 – 2021 in November last year. It was mentioned that some initiatives of UNDDC in 2019 – 2021. Our Department Subsequently, all programme sectors and site neutral Turkmenistan proposed by President remains comprehensively committed to support departments have adopted similar plans for Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov meet priorities of of Turkmenistan in its efforts for solution of work during the same period. the EU, first in the subjects of peace and stable integrated challenges in security sphere and development. Tehran Bureau of the UNESCO is a cluster bureau, elimination of the threats to international which covers four countries from four different Regarding peace and security, including peace, security and sustainable development, sub regions, namely Afghanistan, Iran, Pakistan water security, the EU recognizes permanent Mrs Mittal noted. and Turkmenistan. It allows the UNESCO contribution of Turkmenistan to stabilization Besides, gratitude has been expressed to the developing potential for development of of situation in Afghanistan and this agenda is Government of Turkmenistan for its proposal to regional and transboundary approaches. Active one of the main priorities of the EU security. hold the 55th session of the Sub-commission for role of national Commission of Turkmenistan We welcome initiative of Turkmenistan on illegal drug trafficking in Middle and Near East for the UNESCO affairs has become a link in declaration of 2021 as International Year of and issued related to this in June 2020. all communications with the government Peace and Trust. authorities and existing partners. Our country pays special attention to The EU entirely supports the policy of President international cooperation in combating illegal We also plan some events related to land Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov on diversification drug trafficking, especially in close cooperation management based on protection of ecosystems of gas export markets while the construction of with specialized UUN structures, President and biological resources, creation of geological strategic Trans-Caspian gas line and import of Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov said. Current parks, the UNESCO representative has informed. Turkmen gas remain an important part of the activity of the UN Department on Drugs EU strategy in the sphere of energy security In the sphere of social and humanitarian studies and Crime is carried out in Turkmenistan by and recently, new European Commission has under strategic goals of social integration and implementation of 15 global, regional and included the project into renewed list of priority building of peaceful and fair societies, our national projects. energy projects. We have activated our bilateral activity in Turkmenistan includes intercultural and multilateral energy dialog in 2019 and are The Head of the State noted that Turkmenistan and inter-religious dialog as a continuation ready to continue it. has ratified the main international conventions of International Conference for support of and treaties related to the mandate of the UN intercultural dialog along the Silk Road, which In the end, Lubomir Frebort expressed Department of Drugs and Crime in drug, crime was organized in Turkmenistan in December confidence that 2020 would give an opportunity and terrorism spheres. In May 2019, our country 2018. for thorough preparation to the high-level was elected to the Commission of Narcotic meeting between the EU Government and Session of experts in traditional sports Substances for 2020 – 2023. Turkmenistan. and games of intellectual atlas of cultural In addition, National Action Plan for Combating collaboration along the Silk Road has also taken Having expressed gratitude to the Chargé Human Trafficking in 2020 – 2022 has been place in the fields of the forum in Turkmenistan. d’affaires of the European Union Representative www.diplomaticfocus.org Diplomatic Focus December 2020 13 2020 Year - Turkmenistan - Home of Neutrality

In the sphere of The UNHCR has established its office in Ashgabat Summing up the reports, assessment and involvement of youth, we in July 1995. Many things have been achieved concluding the opinions, President Gurbanguly plan to expand the Contest since then. The country has ratified all four UN Berdimuhamedov expressed since gratitude to of Young Ambassadors of Conventions on refugees and stateless persons. all participants for substantial speeches. Current the SDGs in Turkmenistan as a continuation Turkmenistan is the first and only country in meeting confidently demonstrated high level of national campaign of Turkmenistan for Central Asia, which has joined the conventions of understanding during definition of goals promotion of the Agenda 2030. Activities for of stateless persons. In April 2011, Turkmenistan and objectives of our cooperation, reflected expansion of potential for National Anti-Doping has been elected as a member of the UNHCR coincidence of approaches to the main subjects Agency of Turkmenistan are planned in sports Executive Committee and National Action of the world development, the Head of the State and physical education sphere. Plan for elimination of statelessness has been noted. adopted last year. In line of education, it is planned to hold number Targeting and focus on final result is a character of events for expansion of potential in the The UNHCR also hopes to join the country feature of cooperation between Turkmenistan sphere of technical and professional education; groups of the UN for support in conduct of the and big international organizations. At present educational monitoring and information next national population census in Central Asia time, implementation of the Sustainable systems, use of information and communication including Turkmenistan. Development Goals in Turkmenistan is one technologies in teaching methods and study of of the priority directions of partnership with Mrs Yasuko Oda reminded the participants that information technologies. international organizations. Turkmenistan received thousands refugees from Joint efforts in the sphere of natural sciences Afghanistan from the first days of independence We were able to make significant move forward are concentrated on enhancement of role and not only provided protection of these in this way, having started development of of researches, science, technologies and people but also gave them access to education, specific mechanisms of adaptation of the innovations in stimulation of economic health protection and agricultural lands for their SDGs on national level, having adopted development. deserving life. Many people received citizenship. relative indicators for inclusion of them into This achievement has to be highlighted as one of National programme of social and economic Number of activities for expansion of potential the best world practices, she highlighted. development of Turkmenistan in 2019 – 2025, for protection of cultural heritage along the President Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov said. Silk Road, for integration of the management Director of the Regional Office of the of sustainable tourism in the aspect of UN Commissioner on Refugees has also International initiatives of Turkmenistan in management of heritage facilities, provision expressed gratitude to President Gurbanguly energy and transport spheres are also provided of safety and risk management in museums, Berdimuhamedov for invitation of refugee by the necessity of provision of the Sustainable protection of intangible cultural heritage and sportsmen from Kenia to take part in the Asian Development Goals in these important other. Games in 2017 as well as for conduct of the segments of global economy. Conference on refugee problems in the Muslim Having expressed gratitude to the Head of the It is indicative that relative Resolutions were world in 2012 together with the UNHCR and UNESCO Cluster Office for substantial speech, unanimously supported by the UN General the Islamic Cooperation Organization, which President Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov Assembly in co-authorship with dozens of the resulted in adoption of the Ashgabat Declaration noted that development of culture and states. In this context, International Conference calling for close cooperation of all interested education, protection and popularization of transport ministers of the countries without countries for solution of problems of refugees of historical heritage are the main priorities access to sea in Turkmenistan in March this and stateless persons. of the government policy in Turkmenistan. year is to reflect the continuity of creation of Development of comprehensive and close She has also outlined another important balanced and ramified international transport relations with the UNESCO is an integral direction of cooperation – the readiness for infrastructure with the achievement of the component of the policy. emergencies. The UNHCR and Turkmenistan Sustainable Development Goals. conduct annual trainings in this direction. We are proud of high level of cooperation It was almost quarter of the century since between Turkmenistan and the UNESCO, which Having expressed gratitude to Mrs Yasuko Oda the choice of neutral model of development is based on intent to realize noble ideals of for substantial speech, President Gurbanguly and foreign course made by Turkmenistan understanding and friendship between the Berdimuhamedov said that Turkmenistan pays in the United Nations Organization received nations, the President said. great importance to cooperation with the High unanimous recognition of all member states, Commissioner on Refugees and tries to make its the Head of the State continued. Having Next, Director of the UN Regional Office of High contribution to solution of this problem, which wished success for development and progress Commissioner on Refugees, Mrs Yasuko Oda has concerns destinies of millions of people. to all participants, President Gurbanguly given a speech. Berdimuhamedov noted that number of urgent As is known, Turkmenistan in close cooperation Having expressed deep gratitude to the issues of the global agenda has been highlighted with the UN High Commissioner on Refugees Governmetn of Turkmenistan for old successful at the Conference. At the same time, it was and the Islamic Cooperation Organization held cooperation with the UNHCR Office, she emphasized that their solution is closely related international conference dedicated to the mentioned recent participation of high-level to high level of international cooperation. problems of refugees in Muslim countries. Turkmen delegation in two main global events In this context, the President Gurbanguly held in Geneva. Together with the efforts at international Berdimuhamedov said that partnership platforms, active work is carried out on national Expressing gratitude for specific statements between Turkmenistan and international level. Starting from 2005, Turkmenistan gave made by Turkmenistan at these important organizations is dedicated to fulfilment of citizenship to more than 23,000 refugees and forums, Mrs Oda noted that by thus, our country this objective and expressed gratitude to all stateless persons, the Head of the State added, has demonstrated high level of commitment to participants of the meeting and wished them having said that the state would continue paying protection of refugees and efforts for solution of success on work, which is to serve national and priority attention to these subjects. problem of stateless persons. universal interests.

14 Diplomatic Focus December 2020 www.diplomaticfocus.org 25th Anniversary of the Permanent Neutrality of Turkmenistan

www.diplomaticfocus.org Diplomatic Focus December 2020 15 2020 Year - Turkmenistan - Home of Neutrality

16 Diplomatic Focus December 2020 www.diplomaticfocus.org 25th Anniversary of the Permanent Neutrality of Turkmenistan Statement by the President of Turkmenistan at the 75th session of the United Nations General Assembly

Dear Mr. President! combat coronavirus infection was formed, which We are ready for meaningful communication consists of a set of measures of organizational, on implementation of these initiatives with Dear Mr. Secretary General! legal, financial, economic, medical and sanitary all interested countries and international First of all, let me congratulate Mr. Volkan Bozkir quarantine character. structures. on his election as President of the 75th session Our country has established close international Dear participants! of the United Nations General Assembly and cooperation in bilateral format and through wish him success in this responsible position. The Coronavirus pandemic has a significant international organizations at the same time. negative impact on the course and direction of I would like to ask Mr. Tijjani Muhammad-Bande First of all, it should be noted that Turkmenistan the global economy and seriously undermines to accept our sincere gratitude for his able closely cooperates with the United Nations. the global community’s efforts to achieve the and effective work as President of the General In this context, we fully support the calls and Sustainable Development Goals. In this context, Assembly at its 74th session. appeals of the UN Secretary General made in his we look forward to intensifying cooperation Dear participants! statements on March 23 and 30 of this year. aimed at restoring economic and trade relations. Today it is necessary to create platforms for Ladies and gentlemen! Taking into account the initiatives of the putting the global economy on a sustainable Secretary General, Turkmenistan has approved I want to start my speech with the words of deep growth trajectory. In our opinion, energy, the National Plan of Preparedness for Prevention sorrow for the hundreds of thousands of people transport, industry and trade should become and Response to acute infectious diseases at the who did not survive the coronavirus pandemic. key areas. state level. I also express my admiration and gratitude to In this context, during the 75th session, A Plan of Operational Social and Economic doctors, paramedics, nurses, technical staff, Turkmenistan intends to intensify its work on the Measures in Turkmenistan to counteract the volunteers, all those who have been working elaboration of international legal instruments of coronavirus pandemic was also developed and selflessly for many months to save lives and the UN in the field of stability and reliability of adopted. health of people in different parts of the world. energy transit. Turkmenistan continues its longstanding and Our eyes are focused with hope and faith on The issues of cooperation in transport sphere effective partnership with the World Health scientists and researchers who are working are no less urgent. Organization at the same time. We highly on vaccines and drugs to stop the pandemic. I appreciate the role of WHO in the fight against As one of the initiators of wide international address them with gratitude and willingness coronavirus. Their recommendations have communication on transport issues, to provide all possible support in their most shown their validity in our country and serve as Turkmenistan proposes to consider the issue important mission. important guidelines for the activities of medical of ensuring stable international transportation Yes, today we have to speak first of all about and other institutions. during emergency situations. We have prepared the new danger faced by humanity in the XXI the corresponding draft resolution of the General We will continue to expand and concretize our century. In a short time, COVID-19 has become a Assembly and submitted it for consideration of cooperation with the World Health Organization real and perhaps the most threatening challenge the UN member states. and bring it to a systematic, long-term level. of our time. A global challenge that does not We believe that the international conference recognize borders, races, and nationalities, Close professional coordination and joint efforts of ministers of landlocked developing countries which has a detrimental effect on all spheres of of medical and scientific communities around planned in Turkmenistan next year will be an civilizational development. the world are more necessary than ever for a effective platform for developing coordinated fast victory over the pandemic. Perhaps the whole world has felt its vulnerability approaches to this problem. to a common threat with such severity for We are convinced that today we need The World Trade Organization should take a the first time in many decades. And we hope comprehensive, systematic and purposeful proactive role in the work to restore the world and believe that only unity and solidarity can multilateral cooperation on the problem economy and promote trade and investment. overcome and defeat it and allow mankind to of dangerous viral diseases, a full launch of Having recently obtained observer status in become renewed, wiser, more responsible and scientific diplomacy channels. In this regard, the WTO, Turkmenistan will actively use the farsighted after this battle. And even though Turkmenistan proposes to consider the opportunities opened in this regard to promote the current period is difficult and controversial development and establishment of appropriate practical measures to overcome quickly the crisis it gives us a chance to change for the better international instruments. phenomena in the world economy, its transition for the sake of the entire planet’s destiny. It is In particular, under the aegis of WHO, we to positive dynamics. our highest political and moral duty not to miss consider it appropriate: this chance, to show dignity, solidarity and true Distinguished heads and members of humanism. - to establish a special program of the World delegations! Health Organization to research the coronavirus Dear Mr. President! Coronavirus pandemic has affected to some genome; extent many countries in the world. However, it Turkmenistan has actively began to take the - to develop a multilateral mechanism for is seriously dangerous for disadvantaged regions necessary measures to counter this threat from pneumonia control; from the perspective of ecology. Unfortunately, the very beginning of the spread of the pandemic there are plenty of such territories on the map in the world. Effective protective measures were - establish a Methodological Center for the and it is impossible to mention all of them in one taken on time, a unified national strategy to Treatment and Prevention of Acute Infections. www.diplomaticfocus.org Diplomatic Focus December 2020 17 2020 Year - Turkmenistan - Home of Neutrality

speech. Therefore, I would instruments in global security system, strict Following the logic of neutrality policy like to touch upon the issue, compliance by all states with generally accepted Turkmenistan intends to submit the draft which is highly relevant to norms deriving from the UN Charter. This is resolution “The role of the United Nations the Central Asian states and the only way we could sustain stability and Regional Centre for Preventive Diplomacy nations. It is the Aral Sea disaster. predictability in global politics and mitigate the for Central Asia” for General Assembly’s risks of conflicts. Restoring trust in international consideration to ensure regional peace, security, The situation is escalating amidst pandemic, politics and establishing the culture of respectful development and unleashing potential of it threatens life and health of people and the dialogue are the ways to achieve this objective. preventive diplomacy. risk of epidemic outbreak has considerably risen. Under these circumstances we urge the As is known, at the initiative of Turkmenistan Peace, security and development in Central Asia world community to pay close attention to the the UN General Assembly adopted in September directly depend on the settlement of the situation problems of the Aral Sea and Aral Sea region. last year a resolution declaring the year 2021 in Afghanistan. The position of Turkmenistan is as the year of international peace and trust. principled and remains unchanged. There are Obviously, the work is underway, substantial Turkmenistan puts forward an initiative to no alternatives to the negotiation process. All work has been done by the UN, while other organize International forum on peace and previous experiences have shown that coercive international organizations have provided trust next year to implement provisions of approaches do not have prospects and fail assistance to the International Fund for Saving this resolution. We strongly believe that, this to lead to agreement and reconciliation. Our the Aral Sea. We thank them all and highly Forum will be able to give a strong impetus to country as Afghanistan’s neutral and immediate appreciate their work. constructive and respectful multilateral dialogue neighboring state is ready to provide necessary If I may speak plainly, it is insufficient today. It is on pressing subjects of modern global agenda. political and organizational conditions in our necessary to have very detailed work to save the territory to establish peaceful dialogue between Dear Mr. President! Aral Sea and concrete practical assistance and the Government of Afghanistan and all parties support should be provided to the people living This year Turkmenistan will mark a significant interested in political settlement of the situation there. Thus, we strongly believe that, the subject date in its history. It is the 25th anniversary from in Afghanistan. of Aral Sea needs systematic and comprehensive the moment that our country institutionalized We think that the key condition for political approach as well as relevant legal documents the status of permanent neutrality in the stabilization, social and economic recovery of and this issue should be set as a separate international community through the UN on Afghanistan, its successful integration to global direction of the UN activities. In this regard, December 12, 1995. economy is to implement large infrastructure Turkmenistan has put forward the initiative to Neutrality has been one of the foundations of projects with Afghanistan’s involvement create a Special Program for the Aral Sea Basin. statehood, its internal and foreign policies for a primarily in vital sectors such as energy, We would like to underline the importance quarter of a century. The principles of neutrality, transport and communications. of the UN General Assembly Resolution “On its values and ideology have proven their full As is known, our country consistently working in cooperation between the United Nations and compliance with our national interests and the this direction has initiated the construction of a the International Fund for Saving the Aral Sea” UN objectives and tasks. gas pipeline along Turkmenistan- Afghanistan- adopted at the initiative our country in April And the UN General Assembly with a large Pakistan-India route, as well as railroads and 2018 and May 2019. Today, those resolutions number of member- states that became co- fiber-optic communication lines with access to represent the platform for consolidating joint authors of this initiative unanimously declared the territory of Afghanistan, which have already efforts in the Aral Sea area. December 12 as the International Day of entered the stage of practical implementation. Turkmenistan will present initial draft of the Neutrality. We call on the international community, concept and structure of future Special program business structures, and financial institutions to The neutrality of Turkmenistan is an appeal on the Aral Sea in the framework of ESCATO become more actively involved in this work. and condition for equitable, respectful and sessions in May 2021 as a means of developing mutually beneficial international partnership in Distinguished participants! international legal foundations to address politics, economy and environment protection, the Aral Sea issue. We call upon all states and The UN has been and will remain the most ensuring overall food security, fair and effective interested international organizations to discuss important and priority partner for our country. distribution of natural resources of the planet, these documents. We check all our steps in the international arena supporting and assisting refugees, migrants and with the spirit and letter of the UN Charter. Distinguished participants! stateless people and addressing many other And today, Turkmenistan responsibly declares pressing issues of modern world. Current General Assembly session takes place its unshakable adherence to the great ideals amid complex and painful events related to the Turkmenistan’s neutrality is a lofty mission that lie at UN’s foundation in the year of the escalation of military and political rivalry and of peacemaking and our states’readiness to 75th anniversary of the United Nations. We are unfortunately we are witnessing them today. participate in solving all issues emerging in global convinced that the ideals, values and principles of Assessment of these events and their cause and regional dimensions through peaceful, the UN will remain relevant. The United Nations and effect relationship may differ. But what is political, diplomatic tools and methods. was and should remain the only international certain is that, they negatively affect overall organization with universal legitimacy. Preventive diplomacy is a significant function and international situation, erode global security integral part of Turkmenistan’s neutrality. It is Turkmenistan strongly believes in the future of foundations and impede economic, trade and highly symbolic that the United Nations Regional the UN and will continue to strengthen and build humanitarian relations. Centre for Preventive Diplomacy for Central Asia up strategic partnership with this organization, We have a deep concern over the disregard for was established by the decision of the General thereby making its contribution to unlocking its the international law that we witness lately. Assembly with the support of neighboring states inexhaustible potential in the interests of global In view of the current situation it is necessary and Security Council members in Ashgabat, the peace, security and progress. to consolidate efforts aimed at strengthening capital city of neutral Turkmenistan in 2007. Thank you for your attention! the role of international law, multilateral legal

18 Diplomatic Focus December 2020 www.diplomaticfocus.org 25th Anniversary of the Permanent Neutrality of Turkmenistan

www.diplomaticfocus.org Diplomatic Focus December 2020 19 2020 Year - Turkmenistan - Home of Neutrality

SCIENTIFIC-PRACTICAL CONFERENCE DEDICATED TO THE 25TH ANNIVERSARY OF PERMANENT NEUTRALITY OF TURKMENISTAN AND THE DAY OF DIPLOMATS OF TURKMENISTAN WAS HELD

On February 18, 2020, the Scientific-Practical In the beginning of the Conference, the During the speeches it was noted that the Conference “The Policy of Neutrality and Congratulatory Address of the President of agenda pertaining to the announcement Culture of Peace” dedicated to the 25th Turkmenistan Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov of the year 2020 as “Turkmenistan – Home anniversary of permanent neutrality of to the participants of the Scientific-Practical of Neutrality” is well-timed and “the Turkmenistan under the slogan “Turkmenistan Conference “The Policy of Neutrality and Conception of the External Policy Course of – Home of Neutrality” and the Day of Culture of Peace” was read. Neutral Turkmenistan for the period of 2017- Diplomats of Turkmenistan was held in the 2023” is based on the principles of mutual It is said in the Address that the efforts of our Institute of International Relations of the understanding and mutual respect which homeland aimed at the maintenance of global Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Turkmenistan. stand as a valuable heritage of the ancestors peace, security and stable development gained of Turkmen people. The Conference was complemented by the vast support of the international community. Exhibition dedicated to the 25th anniversary Then the Address of the participants of the The Special Representative of the UN of permanent neutrality of Turkmenistan and Scientific-Practical Conference “The Policy Secretary-General, Head of Regional Centre for the Day of Diplomats of Turkmenistan. of Neutrality and Culture of Peace” to the Preventive Diplomacy for Central Asia Natalia President of Turkmenistan Gurbanguly The heads and employees of the diplomatic Gherman, the UN Resident Coordinator Berdimuhamedov was adopted where sincere service of Turkmenistan, representatives of in Turkmenistan Elena Panova, Regional gratitude for the special attention towards the the Institute of State, Law and Democracy of Representative of the Office of the UN High issues of diplomatic service of the country was Turkmenistan, heads of diplomatic missions Commissioner for Human Rights in Central Asia noted. and representative offices of international Ryszard Komenda, IOM Regional Coordinator organizations working in Turkmenistan, for Central Asia Zeinal Hajiyev, as well as the In the end of the Conference, the award teachers and students of higher educational Country Director of UNFPA in Turkmenistan ceremony of the diplomas of the Ministry of institutions, representatives of public Giullia Valleze gave speeches at the event. Foreign Affairs to young diplomats and senior organizations of our country, as well as the students of the Institute of the International Then the heads and faculty members of representatives of national and foreign press, Relations took place. the institutions of higher education of accredited in Turkmenistan, participated in the Turkmenistan gave speeches. work of the Conference.

20 Diplomatic Focus December 2020 www.diplomaticfocus.org 25th Anniversary of the Permanent Neutrality of Turkmenistan

www.diplomaticfocus.org Diplomatic Focus December 2020 21 2020 Year - Turkmenistan - Home of Neutrality VIDEO MEETING OF THE PRESIDENT OF TURKMENISTAN WITH THE DIRECTOR GENERAL OF WHO

On August 7, 2020 the President of Program “Health” was adopted. On its basis, a Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov stressed the Turkmenistan Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov completely new model of a health care system need to consolidate the efforts of states to held a videoconference meeting with was created, aimed at the general availability correctly diagnose this disease under the the Director General of the World Health of medical care provided to the population, the patronage of the World Health Organization, Organization Tedros Ghebreyesus. President noted. Touching upon the topic of the inviting the WHO Regional Office for Europe to current discussion, the head of Turkmenistan consider the possibility of developing a regional Opening the meeting, the WHO Director- noted that at present all of humanity is faced method for combating pneumonia. General warmly greeted the President of with a new universal threat - the coronavirus Turkmenistan and expressed gratitude to the Thirdly, a particularly important issue is the pandemic. Today, based on our experience Turkmen leader for his personal contribution to improvement of methods for the treatment of gained over a quarter of a century, we have the successful development of fruitful bilateral newly emerged infectious diseases and their taken comprehensive measures to combat the cooperation, built on the basis of mutual prevention. We hope for the assistance of the spread of COVID-19, the President stressed. respect and trust. World Health Organization in further improving Turkmenistan, bringing its activities carried out methods of treating relevant diseases, the head The head of the WHO also thanked the Turkmen in this area in full compliance with the work of Turkmenistan said, noting that in this regard, leader for his great contribution to the common carried out by the world community, came up it is advisable to consider the issue of creating efforts in the fight against the spread ofthe with a number of important initiatives aimed at a methodological center for the treatment and new type of coronavirus infection in the world. uniting international efforts in the fight against prevention of acute infectious diseases in the Then the floor was given to the head of coronavirus. structure of WHO. Turkmenistan. Welcoming the head of WHO, Joint work carried out by the countries and Expressing gratitude to President Gurbanguly the Turkmen leader expressed gratitude for international organizations is yielding positive Berdimuhamedov for the informative speech the initiative to hold and organize this meeting. results. However, numerous aspects related to and voiced proposals, Director General of the As President Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov the COVID-19 virus remain unclear. According to World Health Organization Tedros Ghebreyesus emphasized, this is a good opportunity to the President, on the basis of this, Turkmenistan noted the importance of the initiatives put exchange views on cooperation issues, as well puts forward its proposals. forward by the President of Turkmenistan that as to discuss the most important themes in the are significant for all mankind. In this context, field of human health. First, the reasons for the emergence of new the readiness of the World Health Organization types of the virus today are an unresolved Over the course of 28 years of its membership was expressed to comprehensively study the issue that scientists from many countries of in the World Health Organization, Turkmenistan proposals of the Turkmen leader and carry out the world are currently working on. In our has carried out a great deal of work to improve joint activities. In conclusion, the President opinion, in order to effectively carry out such the national health care system, bringing it of Turkmenistan and the head of the World work, it is necessary to prepare a special in line with the fundamental international Health Organization expressed their readiness program of the World Health Organization to documents that determine the principles to expand cooperation and join efforts in the study the genome of the coronavirus. Second, for the development of this sphere. As a fight against new threats and challenges to the emergence of disease types due to the result, 25 years ago in our country the State public health. COVID-19 virus is a complex issue. President 22 Diplomatic Focus December 2020 www.diplomaticfocus.org 25th Anniversary of the Permanent Neutrality of Turkmenistan

PRESIDENT OF TURKMENISTAN HELD A TELEPHONE CONVERSATION WITH THE PRESIDENT OF THE ISLAMIC REPUBLIC OF PAKISTAN On September 18, 2020, a telephone partnership in the energy sector, in particular, the indicators of bilateral trade, diversification conversation took place between President of on the implementation of the Turkmenistan- of mutual supplies. Turkmenistan Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov Afghanistan-Pakistan-India (TAPI) transnational In this aspect, the expediency of conducting a and President of the Islamic Republic of gas pipeline project. thorough joint analysis of the general state of Pakistan Arif Alvi. To date, construction and installation work trade and economic relations and the dynamics Expressing gratitude to President Arif Alvi for on its Turkmen site is in its final stage. Most of trade was noted. Here, the Intergovernmental the great personal contribution and attention recently, a Memorandum of Understanding was Turkmen-Pakistani Commission should show paid to strengthening bilateral cooperation, signed between Turkmenistan and Afghanistan itself more actively, President Gurbanguly President Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov noted on the selection of land plots on the Afghan Berdimuhamedov said, proposing to organize that our states and peoples are bound by the part of the TAPI highway, designed to facilitate its next meeting in the online format in the near traditions of friendship and cooperation. the intensification of work on the territory of future. the neighboring country. During the telephone conversation, it was The interlocutors also spoke in favor of emphasized that in recent years, the friendly, In this context, President Gurbanguly expanding the traditional humanitarian trusting Turkmen-Pakistani dialogue has Berdimuhamedov expressed hope that with interaction between the two countries, whose acquired a new content and is developing the assistance and support of his Pakistani peoples are united by long-standing spiritual especially successfully due to the huge potential counterpart, construction of a gas pipeline in and cultural ties, which are now a solid basis and mutual readiness of the parties to build up Pakistan will soon begin. for further deepening interstate cooperation. mutually beneficial ties. In this regard, there are good opportunities As it was emphasized, the successful for enhancing systemic contacts in the field Continuing the topic, the interlocutors noted implementation of this major project, giving a of culture and art, scientific, educational and with satisfaction the high level of cooperation new impetus to the economic development of medical spheres. in the political sphere, including within the the region, will further bind our states with the framework of authoritative international bonds of good-neighborliness and cooperation, At the end of the conversation, confirming organizations. In this regard, President and will become an important factor in peace the mutual intention of Turkmenistan and Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov addressed the and stability. the Islamic Republic of Pakistan to build up a Government of Pakistan with gratitude for the constructive dialogue across its entire spectrum, Among the promising areas of interstate active support of Turkmenistan’s initiatives in Presidents Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov and and regional partnership, the effective the world arena aimed at ensuring universal Arif Alvi wished each other health and success combination of efforts to develop transport peace, security and sustainable development. in responsible state activities, and well-being and communication infrastructure, and build and prosperity to the fraternal peoples of both They also highlighted the progressive power transmission lines was also identified. countries. dynamics of interaction in the trade and Today, Turkmenistan and Pakistan have economic sphere, where the strategic basis is sufficient potential for a significant increase in www.diplomaticfocus.org Diplomatic Focus December 2020 23 2020 Year - Turkmenistan - Home of Neutrality

24 Diplomatic Focus December 2020 www.diplomaticfocus.org 25th Anniversary of the Permanent Neutrality of Turkmenistan

President Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov: Adoption of the Constitutional Law will be written in gold letters to the chronicle of the nation

President Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov: The culmination has come and President of Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov asked if there Adoption of the Constitutional Law will be Turkmenistan, Chairman of the People’s Council are any proposals or remarks on subjects written in gold letters to the chronicle ofthe Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov announced the and documents, which would be brought for nation opening of the session. discussion. On 25th September direct video conference National anthem of Turkmenistan is playing. The Leader of the Nation has announced about session of the People’s Council of Turkmenistan approval of the agenda of the Session of the Having congratulated the participants of has been held under the chairmanship of People’s Council under unanimous support and national forum people of the country on President Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov. full agreements of the participants of national important events in life of Turkmen society forum. Members of the Government, chairman and and state – the opening of the session of the deputies of the Mejlis, heads of the ministries People’s Council and 29th anniversary of After, the President of Turkmenistan have made and profile departments, political parties independence of the country, the President a program speech for the participants. and public associations, heads of the regions, addressed the best wishes to all. Addressing the participants of national forum, districts and cities as well as members of the The Head of the State highlighted that the the Head of the State has highlighted that People’s Council, numerous personnel of People’s Council, which is held in the year large-scale work has been carried out for facilities and establishments, honoured elders, under slogan “Turkmenistan – Home of construction of modern state with stable respected mothers and youth took part in the Neutrality”, would be written in gold letters in developing economy, formation of fair civil session. the chronicle of our powerful state. New stage society, making of favourable life conditions for To participate in the session, the Head of the of constitutional reforms has been started at the years of independence. The state and social State has come to the capital’s Ruhiyet Palace the session of the People’s Council last year and order have been fundamentally modernized in where special big monitors have been installed initiative on improvement of the Main Law of the result of successful implementation of the for direct video connection with all participants. the country has been proposed. reforms for 29 years. Addressing the participants of national forum, The main goals of these reforms is to improve Starting from the first days of own development, the Head of Turkmenistan noted that current activity of high representative bodies –the Turkmenistan has declared neutrality in its session of the People’s Council is held in video People’s Council and Mejlis of Turkmenistan, foreign policy and strictly follows the principles conference format. That is why representatives which serve to the highest value of the state of good neighbourliness, respect, justice and of Balkan, Dashoguz, Lebap and Mary Regions and society – human, its interests as well equality, implements foreign policy meeting have gathered in regional Ruhiyet palaces, as to establish two chamber structure of the goals of universal peace, security and representatives of Ahal Region in Ak öý building legislative body and to bring the activity of prosperity, the Head of the State said. and representatives of Ashgabat in the capital’s democratic institutes to new level. Further, Our neutral state has established diplomatic Mekan Palace. having noted that delegates of the forum relations with 149 states of the world. had a chance to see the agenda, President

www.diplomaticfocus.org Diplomatic Focus December 2020 25 2020 Year - Turkmenistan - Home of Neutrality

Being a member of around 50 international factor would support the development and districts. Construction of houses for disabled organizations, it is also a member of more than successful implementation of perspective people and citizens who require support 150 international conventions, agreements and commercial and trade strategy. would be continued in the capital and regions, other multilateral documents. President Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov Continuing the session, the Head of the State highlighted. We pay special attention to strengthening of has highlighted one of actual problems of the cooperation in different directions with such present, the President of Turkmenistan has Having noted that care of social protection competent organizations as the United Nations highlighted that acute coronavirus disease, of the citizens is in the centre of permanent Organization European Union, Commonwealth which has made negative impact on the attention, the Head of Turkmenistan highlighted of Independent States, Organization of Security economics of all states, was spread in the world that salary wages, pensions, state allowances and Cooperation in Europe, Non-alignment in 2020. and student scholarships have been increased Movement, Islamic Cooperation Organization, this year. Despite continuing complicated financial and states of Asian and Pacific region, Middle and economic conditions in the world, we have In addition, most part of financial resources Far East, European and American countries, - achieved stable development of the economy allocated form the State budget would be the Head of the State noted. of the country and were able to keep significant invested to education, health protection Turkmenistan makes deserving contribution financial resources in reserve, the President spheres and Pension Fund. to implementation of the Sustainable stated. Continuing the session, the President of Development Goals, the President continued. Having noted that Program of the country Turkmenistan has focused on another Adoption of the Resolution on announcement development for five years has been adopted at important subject. It is necessary to develop the of 2021 as International Year of Peace and Trust the session of the People’s Council last year, the industry providing equipment and resources at the 73rd session of the UN General Assembly Head of Turkmenistan focused the attention for development of construction sphere at high was a historical event that has demonstrated on the necessity of taking of all measures for rates. our efforts for the sake of triumph of peace and fulfilment in full volume in current complex President Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov friendship to the world and has increased the conditions. Provision of income to the State has specified increment of volumes of local authority of neutral Turkmenistan. budget, which is the main financial instrument, construction materials, efficiency of work, was specified among the utmost objectives. Speaking of importance of receiving of the status enhancement of competiveness and quality Significant part of the social investments is of observer at the World Trade Organization, the of construction production, safety of works provided from the state budget. Head of the State noted that it would provide and service complex among the main future harmonic development of national economy, More than 70 percent of the State budget is objectives. strengthening of positions in foreign trade used for social activity including the reformation At the same time, the Head of Turkmenistan has relations, expansion of multilateral cooperation of social and living conditions of the population noted that it is necessary to make corrections of and attraction of foreign investments. This of villages, settlements in the regions, cities and the construction program for the next year and

26 Diplomatic Focus December 2020 www.diplomaticfocus.org 25th Anniversary of the Permanent Neutrality of Turkmenistan to prepare investment program. Strengthening Speaking of the plans in this sector, President in the future. Existing of the base of the sphere in the country is an Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov highlighted international Turkmenistan important part of industrial and innovative that use of capabilities of solar and wind – China gas pipeline and strategy of development of independent state. energy is planned. According to the Concept transnational Turkmenistan – of development of Altyn Asyr Lake region in Afghanistan – Pakistan – India gas line, The state programs of production of import 2019 – 2025, modern settlements and facilities which construction is continued, are to serve as substitutive products and increment of built in this place would be provided by energy a composite link of pipeline logistics. volumes of export of local goods, establishment from solar and wind power stations. Works for of electronic industry are successfully Modern highways, which have been built and establishment of energy ring inside the country implemented under diversification of the under construction in our independent state and construction of Turkmenistan – Afghanistan economy, the President continued. including Ashgabat – Karakums – Dashoguz and – Pakistan power line would be continued. Turkemnbashy – Ashgabat – Farab roads, which At present time, together with improvement Continuing the speech, the Head of the State will support efficient use of colossal economic of administrative and territorial system of the has noted that current logistic strategy takes potential of the country and other states of the country, we have such important objectives as its grounds from ancient times. Being an region, play important role in development of removal of borders between the city and rural important part of the Silk Road, the territory transport logistics. area, President Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov of Turkmenistan used to unite peoples and said, having highlighted that the Mejlis of It was highlighted that big work has been continents, which was very important in Turkmenistan together with administrations carried out for turning of agriculture into development of relations between the East and of regions, ministries and profile departments high technological sphere open for innovative West. have to continue relative work in this direction solutions and ideas supporting opening of new as well as work on expansion of the scale of Beneficial geographic location of our country markets. urbanization of settlements and capabilities for opens wide perspectives for establishment Speaking of the utmost objectives of this stable integrated planning of settlements and of competitive transport macrostructure. complex, the President of Turkmenistan their management. Maritime, road, railway, air and pipeline has noted that it is necessary to use international multimodal logistic projects are Important place in successful implementation potential of digital systems more efficiently implemented in modern time. The agreements of the adopted programs of industrialization for enhancement of work productivity in achieved on Uzbekistan – Turkmenistan – of our independence state is given to power agricultural complex, and provision of its stable Iran – Oman and Afghanistan – Turkmenistan energy industry, the Head of the State said, development. - Azerbaijan – Georgia – Turkey transport having highlighted that output capacity of corridors will support the establishment of Having highlighted that local markets have to be energy industry would be increased in near opportunities for development of relations fully provided with local production, the Head future. in the regional and continental boundaries of the State ordered to increase the plantations

www.diplomaticfocus.org Diplomatic Focus December 2020 27 2020 Year - Turkmenistan - Home of Neutrality

of potato, vegetable and cucurbitaceous crops resources, energy, biotechnologies, molecular measures for strengthening of immune system and to increase volumes of meat and dairy biology, agriculture, ecology and genetics, of people are taken. production. information and communication systems. The Acute Infectious Disease Readiness and In this regard, appropriateness of analysis Importance of projects and scientific studies Response Plan as well as the Plan of Operational carried out by the Union of Industrialists and in such perspective directions as computer Social and Economic Measures for countering Entrepreneurs and the Cabinet of Ministers technologies, modern medicine and pharmacy, the pandemic have been adopted on the for regular improvement of the program of innovative economy, humanitarian sciences, Government level. construction of small, medium and big facilities innovative developments has been highlighted. Stimulation of personnel of health protection making import substitutive production has The head of the State continued that it opens sphere and efficient use of their potential been noted. Implementation of this program wide perspectives for efficient activity of in combating the infection are important will support the establishment of new and keep educational personnel, education of youth on directions at present time, the Head of of existing work places. the world level. Turkmenistan said, having highlighted that the Having highlighted another actual issue, the According to the Program of the President Resolution on provision of additional benefits President highlighted that special attention is for social and economic development of the would be signed later. paid to stable development of the country, its country in 2019 – 2025, Turkmen leader has At the same time, President Gurbanguly successful integration to the world economic ordered the higher educational institutes to Berdimuhamedov has noted that it is necessary space, bringing of educational sphere to specify certain directions of improvement to prepare new edition of the State Health international level and education of deserved of training of young scientists, engineers, Program. younger generation is paid in the government technologists and specialists as well as to policy. develop relative Program. The Head of the State has specified careful and efficient use of natural reserves among New younger generation, which is fond of Continuing the session, the Head of the State perspective directions of coming work. science and art, has been formed in the result highlighted the subject of combating the Appropriateness of construction of resorts of fundamental changes carried out in scientific COVID-19 coronavirus, which the world has in gorges of the Kopetdag, Koytendag and sphere, national academic scientific and faced at present time. Sumbar, spaces of Badhyz Reserve, along research institutes, high educational facilities, In this regard, it was noted that work for regular Amudarya, Murgab and Karakum rivers, making scientific and projects centres, experimental provision of the population with the main all conditions for travelling and comfortable and practical laboratories and profile scientific medicines strengthening immune system of holidays of people has also been noted. organizations. human has been organized from the first days Further, President Gurbanguly Talented youth work efficiently in the sphere of of spread of large-scale spread of the disease. Berdimuhamedov has focused on improvement nanotechnologies, scientific researches of new Total check-ups are carried out, other necessary

28 Diplomatic Focus December 2020 www.diplomaticfocus.org 25th Anniversary of the Permanent Neutrality of Turkmenistan

of legal status of the People’s Council and and the Mejlis due to establishment of two- the Head of the Parliament highlighted that amendments and addendums of the Main Law, chamber structure of legislative representative today, Turkmenistan is known in the world as which have been started at the session of the body of the Government power. a state demonstrating high level of industrial People’s Council of Turkmenistan last year. development and based on the latest scientific The draft proposes the order of establishment and technical achievements, caring of wealth of Being a special branch of the government of the Parliament’s chambers, holding of the the nation and urging all countries to peace and power, the parliament is an integral tool of sessions, adoption of laws, requirements to good relations. people’s democracy in political and public life the candidates to the members of the People’s of the country. Establishment of fundamentally Council and deputies of the Mejlis as well as It was mentioned that program speech of new two-chamber structure of National standards specifying their authorities, which the Head of the State at the current session Parliament will make favourable conditions are very important for coordinated activity of of the People’s Council outlined the main for strengthening of legal base of further both chambers. directions of strengthening of achievements of development of our independent country independence and permanent neutrality, social According to the draft Constitutional Law, it is and enhancement of efficiency of activity and economic cultural development of the proposed to exclude one and add three articles of the government authorities, the Head of country and sets specific objectives. to the Main Law and make relative amendments Turkmenistan highlighted, having stated with and addendums to article 27. Major programs aimed at social and economic delight that these changes have raised big development of cities, districts and villages, interest and full support of the society. It would be reasonable to hold elections of the improvement of social and living conditions of members of the Milli Gengesh of Turkmenistan Special emphasis has been made on huge the population are carried out at present. In by regional and district People’s Councils in the work done by the Constitutional Commission this context, improvement of administrative first quarter of coming year under unanimous for development of the Constitutional Law and territorial system of our state is an approval of the Draft Constitutional Law on Amendments and Addendums of the important aspect. This subject including at current session, President Gurbanguly Constitution of Turkmenistan. It was mentioned elimination of difference between city and rural Berdimuhamedov noted. that the draft of this legal act has been published area, modern management of settlements, has in mass media for comprehensive consideration Having finished his speech, Turkmen leader been highlighted by the Head of the state in his of public opinion and national discussion. proposed to start the discussion of subjects of speech, having specified relative objectives. the agenda of national forum, having given the According to the draft of Constitutional Law, the Having assured that all necessary measures floor to the participants. People’s Council is included to the system of would be taken for fulfilment of objectives for the highest government authorities making the The floor was given to Speaker of the Mejlis further improvement of administrative and functions of legislative power. In this context, G. Mammedova. Having expressed cordial territorial system of the regions, the Speaker it is proposed to exclude the article 6 with gratitude to the President and participants of the Mejlis wished strong health, longevity index 1 from the main Law and name National of the session of the People’s Council and and success in all major beginning for the Parliament as Milli Gengesh of Turkmenistan all Turkmenistan citizens on coming 29th sake of the people and country to the Head of and its chambers as the People’s Council anniversary of independence of the country, Turkmenistan. www.diplomaticfocus.org Diplomatic Focus December 2020 29 2020 Year - Turkmenistan - Home of Neutrality

Summing up the discussion, President of the nation. In the result of works, draft Addendums of the Constitution of Turkmenistan Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov has expressed Constitutional Law of Turkmenistan, which at the session of the Mejlis. gratitude to all who made speech and took has been brought out for national discussion, Continuing the session of the People’s Council, active part in work of the session, during which has been developed. The participants of the the Head of the State has given the floor to important issues of the state and public life of current session have supported initiatives Speaker of the Mejlis G. Mammedova for the country have been reviewed. Having stated about improvement of activity and change announcement of decision of the deputies on with delight that the speakers spoke for support of legal status of the People’s Council. Similar the above-mentioned Draft Constitutional Law. of initiatives proposed at the forum, Turkmen support has been provided by the citizens from leader noted that all proposals would be taken all regions of the country, the Head of the State The Head of National Parliament has into account. noted. informed that deputies have discussed and unanimously adopted the Draft Constitutional Continuing the session, President Gurbanguly Number of proposals has been made during Law on Amendments and Addendums of the Berdimuhamedov has singed number of discussion of the draft Constitutional Law Constitution of Turkmenistan at the session of documents including the Orders on conferring of Turkmenistan and in the speeches of the the Mejlis. of the State Awards and Honoured Titles participants. Speaking of this, the President on occasion of the 29th anniversary of noted that draft Resolutions of the People’s The Speaker of the Mejlis has congratulated Turkmenistan’s Independence. Council on Approval of the Draft Constitutional President Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov and Law on Amendments and Addendums of the all Turkmen people on remarkable event in the These high awards are conferred to Constitution of Turkmenistan and on Approval latest history of the country – the adoption of distinguished citizens for special merits for of the Main Directions of Social and Economic the Constitutional Law, which sets legal base for independent neutral Motherland and people, Development of Turkmenistan in 2021are establishment of two-chamber legislative body. long honest and selfless work and professional presented for review to the participants of the skills. Having expressed the best wishes to the session. President, the Head of the Mejlis addressed Further, the Head of the State highlighted that These documents have been adopted the Head of the State to sign the Constitutional historically important subjects of the state and unanimously. Having signed the above Law on Amendments and Addendums of the public life have been reviewed at the current mentioned Resolutions and highlighted that big Constitution of Turkmenistan. session. work has been done for improvement of the Having listened to the information and First, priorities of home and foreign policy of Main Law of the country, President Gurbanguly addressing the delegates of national forum, the country as well as draft of the Constitutional Berdimuhamedov expressed gratitude to President Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov Law on Amendments and Addendums of representatives of all levels of Turkmen society has stated that deputies of the Mejlis have the Constitution of Turkmenistan have been including the delegates of national forum for unanimously voted for adoption of the discussed. active participation in this activity. Constitutional Law. As it was mentioned before historical initiatives Addressing the participants of the session of the Under applauses of the participants of about change of legal status of the Peoples People’s Council, the Head of the State informed the session, the President has signed Council of Turkmenistan and transit to two- that Constitutional Law on Amendments and the Constitutional Law on Amendments chamber parliament system have been Addendums of the Constitution of Turkmenistan and Addendums of the Constitution of proposed at the national forum last year. is presented for review to the Mejlis. Turkmenistan, having highlighted that adoption The Head of the State said that these The deputies had a discussion of the Draft of it on the threshold of the 29th anniversary beginnings have raised big interest and support Constitutional Law on Amendments and of independence, which marks solidarity of

30 Diplomatic Focus December 2020 www.diplomaticfocus.org 25th Anniversary of the Permanent Neutrality of Turkmenistan the society and state, is a grandiose historical We would continue following standards and of the People’s Council event, which would be written in gold letters to principles of the Constitution and lead our of the Milli Gengesh of chronicle of our nation. democratic, legal and temporal state on the Turkmenistan. way of grandiose achievements, - President In this solemn moment, the Head of the State Continuing the session, President Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov highlighted, has congratulated the participants of the session Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov has also having expressed confidence that new two- and all people of the country on adoption of highlighted the subject of health protection, chamber parliament system would also make the Constitutional Law of Turkmenistan related having noted that national medical personnel fruitful contribution to this affair. Continuing to improvement of activity of the People’s carry our big work for health protection of the subject, the President has informed that Council and Mejlis as well as establishment the people, work selflessly for prevention, the Constitutional Law on Amendments and of two-chamber structure of legislative body, diagnostic and treatment of diseases. Speaking Addendums of the Constitution of Turkmenistan which complies with the world and national of this, the Head of the State has signed the enter into force from January 1, 2021. democratic practice, universal standards and Resolution on Improvement of social protection norms of international law. President Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov has of personnel of health protection industry. also noted that having adopted the above- In this regard, President Gurbanguly Summing up the session, during which the mentioned Constitutional Law, we have Berdimuhamedov has ordered the members main subjects of foreign and home policy established two-chamber structure of legislative of the Government, deputies of National of Turkmenistan have been reviewed, the body of the country. In order the People’s Parliament, representatives of public President has congratulated the delegates Council of new Parliament has started its associations and local power authorities to of the forum and all people on the 29th activity, it is necessary to carry out organization carry out relative work at sites for solution anniversary of independence of the country, work and election of its members. According to of objectives following from the adopted having expressed the best wishes. the Constitutional Law, the first elections of the Constitutional Law. People’s Council chamber of the Milli Gengesh After, President Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov The Head of Turkmenistan highlighted that of Turkmenistan are appointed by the President has addressed the participants of the session relative proposals on important administrative of Turkmenistan. and all fellow countrymen with final speech. and territorial issues of the country have been Having expressed gratitude to the delegates Following this, the Head of the state has signed proposed at the current session. The main goal of the forum, especially those who took direct the Resolution of the People’s Council on of these subjects is in efficient organization part in its work and organization, the President organizational work related to the appointment of regional management, reduction of of Turkmenistan wished them strong health, of the first elections of the members of the administrative expenses, further strengthening prosperity and big success in work. People’s Council of the Milli Gengesh of of positions of local power authorities and Turkmenistan as well as arrangement of activity support of democratic initiatives on sites.

www.diplomaticfocus.org Diplomatic Focus December 2020 31 2020 Year - Turkmenistan - Home of Neutrality

32 Diplomatic Focus December 2020 www.diplomaticfocus.org 25th Anniversary of the Permanent Neutrality of Turkmenistan Events on the occasion of the 29th Anniversary of the Independence of Turkmenistan Turkmenistan has observed the Independence Members of the Government, heads of anniversary of the country’s independence. The Day on September 27. This year, which is held the Mejlis, military and law enforcement Head of the State has given command to start under slogan Turkmenistan – Home of Neutrality, agencies, ministries and departments, the parade. this big holiday is filled with special meaning for public organizations, the Mayor of Ashgabat, The Defence Ministers has had a ride along us as it had number of historical events. After honoured elders have gathered at the Tribune. the troops greeting parade squads consisting nation-wide discussion, the Constitutional Personnel of National Army have lined up at the of military personnel and cadets of specialized Law on Amendments and Addendums of the Square of Independence. The solemn music was universities and schools, soldiers and officers of Constitution of Turkmenistan, according to performed by the Exemplary Military Orchestra National Army. which the Milli Gengesh consisting of two of the Armed Forces. chambers – the Mejlis and People’s Council, National anthem of Turkmenistan was played. has been adopted at the session of the People’s President Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov went The State Flag of Turkmenistan has been hoisted Council on September 25. up to the Government tribune. The participants on the flagpole. Having lined up at the square, have greeted the Head of the State with big officers, soldiers and cadets have given a sacred Coming celebration of the 25th anniversary of enthusiasm. military oath to be loyal to the Motherland, Turkmenistan’s neutrality is also worth to be People and President. mentioned among important events of this Traditionally, the celebration has been started year. Various events are held on occasion of the from the military parade where defensive Celebration parade has been started by the anniversary in our country and abroad. Election capability of the country, professionalism flag group. Under the sounds of solemn of Turkmenistan as the Vice-chairman of recent and skills of Turkmen warriors who stand march. The soldiers of separate battalion of 75th session of the United Nations General guard protecting sovereign Turkmenistan and the Guard of Honour have carried the State Assembly was another bright evidence of high prosperous life of the people. Flag of Turkmenistan and combat colours of international authority of the country. all Armed Forces across the square. They have Defence Minister B. Gundogdiyev has been followed by the cadets of Berdimuhamed According to good tradition, the main events addressed President of Turkmenistan, Supreme Annayev 1st specialized military school of the on occasion of the Independence Day have Commander of the Armed Forces of the country, Ministry of Defence. been held at the main square of the country in Army General Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov Ashgabat. with request to give start to military parade Battalion of officers, the best in combat on occasion of the celebration of the 29th training, have marched across the square.

www.diplomaticfocus.org Diplomatic Focus December 2020 33 2020 Year - Turkmenistan - Home of Neutrality

The best representatives of all Military Forces, of the Defence Ministry and the State Border disposal of National Army. This equipment is which deservingly continuing traditions of Guard Service of the country. able to drive all terrains and designated for glorious ancestors, fulfil their military and civil rapid operations of special groups. Combat They have been followed by the cadets of the duty with honour. They have been followed arms installed on the vehicles allow acting in Institute of National Security, Institute of Internal by soldiers of motorized rifle battalion, whose any conditions. Affairs and Border Guard Institute. Training high training and combat skills serve as solid and educational process in these educational Further, military vehicles MRZR-D2, MRZR-D4, guarantee of security of the country. They have facilities meets modern requirements. DAGOR, AJBAN, which are designated for been replaced by the column of Turkmen pilots. special operations, have entered the square. Special force battalion, which was named Battalion of marines was among the participants These mobile and at the same time powerful “Türkmen edermen” by initiative of President of the military parade. Due to the attention of tactical transport vehicles are able to drive Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov, has entered the government to NAVY Forces, equipment and off-road with big load and used in service by square. facility base of military fleet is modernized military personnel of Türkmen edermen Special under the programme of development of the High level of combat, theoretical and physical Force group. Armed Forces. training, courage and determination are At present time, National Army have armoured distinguishing feature of military personnel of Profile higher educational institutes, which Land Rovers and NIMRs, which are equipped this division. It is not occasionally that alabay, have important objective to form up new with anti-tank missiles, tactical drons, mortars which has all these properties, is the emblem generation of national military personnel, are and machine guns. of the battalion. Limited number of soldiers and available in Turkmenistan today. In his speeches mobility of the group allows fulfilling combat Light armoured AL SHIBL2 vehicles, which have at the sessions of the State Security Council, assignments rapidly and precisely. supplemented equipment and technical base of the Supreme Commander of the Armed the Armed Forces of Turkmenistan, have been Forces highlights the necessity to pay special March of military personnel of equestrian driven in column across the square. They are attention to quality and efficiency of education, divisions, which were formed up under support also used by personnel of Türkmen edermen enhancement of level of professional skills, of the Head of the State in military divisions of Special Force group and help to fulfil combat improvement of operational skills of modern national Armed Forces and Ministry of Interior, tasks successfully. The review of military military vehicles and equipment. was an adornment of the celebration parade. vehicles has been continued with CARACAL self- Activity of the Military Institute of the Defence Review of military vehicles, which was supplied propelled anti-tank rocket complexes Ministry, which has all conditions for receiving recently to all military forces, demonstrate high Further, armoured personnel carriers BTR-80A education meeting time requirements, is aimed level of defence capability of Turkmen state, with group of paratroopers and man-portable at achievements of set objectives. Cadets of readiness to combat modern challenges and air defence systems on board have entered the this educational institute also participate in threats. square. This modern equipment is distinguished the parade in honour of the anniversary of Mechanized columns of different Armed forces, with reliability and high combat properties. Turkmenistan’s independence. which are headed by Combat Guard special Armoured Kirpi vehicles designated for Naval Institute of the Defence Ministry, which vehicles, have been followed one after another special forces have been marched in front of cadets have been marched in straight lines across the square. the tribune. Land Rover combat vehicle with across the square, was opened for reliable The columns have been followed by military modern system of military communication protection of maritime borders of the country personnel on motor vehicles, which are at @Rode Schwarz was among the second and training of qualified specialists for the fleet

34 Diplomatic Focus December 2020 www.diplomaticfocus.org 25th Anniversary of the Permanent Neutrality of Turkmenistan mechanized column. It has been followed by above the square. Su-25 combat aircrafts have on occasion of the FM-90 and Pechora-2BM anti-aircraft missile appeared in sky. 29th anniversary systems, which are used for destruction of of Turkmenistan’s In general. All powerful ground and air above-water and land-based targets. Independence and as a equipment presented at the parade is a visual gratitude for selfless work for the sake of The third mechanize column has consisted evidence of unremitting attention of President prosperity of Turkmen nation. of specialized transport vehicles of the State Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov to strengthening Border Guard Service PMV-SURVIVOR-II, Toyota of defence capability of independent neutral Our horse riders, which are famous around Hilux, COBRA designated for protection of the Turkmenistan, modernization of national the world as outstanding sportsmen, have sacred borders of the country. These vehicles Armed forces, further improvement of activity demonstrated performance program at big are distinguished by power, speed and high off- of military and law enforcement structures. event dedicated to the 29th anniversary of road capability. Turkmenistan’s independence. Numerus Celebration parade at the main square of the winner of the world festivals and international They have been followed by IVECO trucks country has been continued. Independent contests, Galkynysh National equestrian Game with ZU-23 anti-aircraft complex, which allows Guard of Honour battalion of the Defence group of Ahalteke Equestrian Complex of the destroying air-borne targets on small altitude. Ministry, which soldiers demonstrate an President of Turkmenistan has demonstrated excellent training and high skills of exercises The turn of the fourth mechanized column again their outstanding skills in such complex with arms, has appeared in front of the has come. The departments of the Ministry of genre as equestrian stunting. government tribune. Interior, the same like any other security forces, The column of horse riders have been led by are gradually equipped with the latest vehicles The map of Turkmenistan and image of dove, the head of the Group on Akhan, which has and equipment, their resource and technical a symbol of peace, figure 29, which embodies performed an elegant dance under national base is strengthened. Light armoured vehicles remarkable date, have been made on the tune. It is worth to remind that Akhan has been used by police like OTOKAR, PMV SURVIVOR II, square by military personnel. After, personnel listed in the Guinness Record Book in 2018. Toyota Tundra, GMC Sierra and Ford have been of Independence Guard of Honour battalion Unusual abilities of the horse, it has managed presented at the parade. These vehicles serve has formed up the outline of the Monument of to walk rearing for 10 meters in 4.19 seconds, for support of public order. Independence. having beaten previous record in this unique Further, the celebration review has been Performance of combined military orchestra of nomination by two times, have been registered continued in the air. Turkmen pilots who the Armed Forces of Turkmenistan, which has back then. The Akhan has demonstrated again demonstrated their skills have been operating prepared its present on occasion of the main his best stunt, having reared and walked this modern aircrafts. Mi-17 and Mi-24 helicopters celebration of the country, was a final chord of way. have appeared in the sky above the square. the military parade. The events on occasion of the 29th anniversary They have been followed by Eurocopter 145 … Ahalteke horse, which beauty is highlighted of independence have been continued. TV of the Ministry of Interior of the country and by jewellery decoration, has been brought out broadcasting allowed our fellow countrymen Eurocopter – 365 of the Ministry of National to the square in front of the tribune. Wonderful living in different cities and villages to watch Security as well as Augusta 109 helicopter of horse has demonstrated outstanding training the ceremony at the main square in the capital the State Border Guard Service. and gracious statue. in live. Due to the capabilities of moder TV Special aircraft Diamond – 42, which is broadcasting and internet communications, This golden stallion named Buysanchly has been designated for reconnaissance flights as well celebration mood of Turkmenistan citizens presented on behalf of the associates to Head as aerial photo and video footage has flown can be shared by the people of different of the State Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov

www.diplomaticfocus.org Diplomatic Focus December 2020 35 2020 Year - Turkmenistan - Home of Neutrality

countries of the world. development of national medicine, special Achievements of oil and gas sphere have been Further, demonstration of place has been given to herbal plants of visually demonstrated in thematic decoration success and achievements Turkmenistan. of demonstration vehicle with models of of the branches f the economy drilling rigs and pipelines. Visual place in the Demonstration of economic structures, financial and social complex has started. Truck-based decoration has been taken by big tank with EC)- and banking spheres has also been very bright. platforms with bright thematic decorations 93 logo, new brand of Turkmen petrochemical Panels and models have reflected the dynamic were visual illustrations. industry, which has arranged the production of economic growth of Turkmenistan. of eco-friendly gasoline. The Head of the The procession has been opened by the Mejlis Trade, foreign economic relations, textile State pays special attention to increment of of Turkmenistan and public organizations of the industry of country have also been presented processing of hydrocarbon materials, rapid country. The masters of the ceremonies have in the parade. President Gurbanguly industrial development of new fields. been speaking of huge role given to activity of Berdimuhamedov highlights that development public organizations, highest legislative body in Construction and architectural sphere has been of trade sphere and light industry is an development of the state, its civic and public presented after. Achievements of construction important condition of marketing and institutes. complex are visible to everyone. They have competitive national economy. changed the image of our capital and all Signing of the Constitutional Law on Bright carpet with traditional patterns were country, having decorated them with hundreds Amendments and Addendums of the at the displays on the vehicles. Inclusion of of new social and economic facilities. Today, Constitution of Turkmenistan by President Turkmen national carpet art to the UNESCO urban construction industry in Turkmenistan Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov, which marks World Intangible Cultural Heritage List has is distinguished with systematic approach to transfer of legislative body to two-chamber been a visual result of work for popularization use of space and establishment of favourable system, has been significant event in the of Turkmen heritage in the world. environment. year of celebration of the 29th anniversary of independence. Turkmenistan’s entrepreneurship has been The turn of power energy and chemical the next subject in celebration demonstration. industry has come after. The vehicle had Solidarity of Turkmen nation, dedication to Today, the facilities opened by local models of production trains, which output historical roots and national traditions are businessmen work efficiently in construction capacity provide growing requirements, symbolized by white traditional tent (yurta), sphere, services, production of consumer pictures of high-voltage power lines supplying which was installed on vehicle-based platform goods and food successfully competing with Turkmen electricity to neighbouring countries, dedicated to five regions of the country. foreign companies. new facilities of chemical industry. Not only The demonstration has been continued by production capacity of the branches but also The baton of the event has been taken up the municipality of Ashgabat. Vehicle with their export capabilities are increased. by transport and communication complex. attractions of the capital – new constructions, Silhouette of white and green aircraft and Platform of art and cultural personnel of the monuments, which have decorated the picture of space satellite have been seen on country has come to the square. Growing main city of the country, which image is the vehicle decorated according to the subject. generation has been also participating in fundamentally changed owing to large-scale Ships and trains has been pictured on another celebration demonstration. Children were urban development program initiated by platform. joyfully greeting President Gurbanguly President Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov, has Berdimuhamedov. Young artists have moved in front of the tribune. Brightly decorated trucks, one of which has performed dance composition and song about presented the products of generous Turkmen Vehicle representing educational sphere, to happy childhood and beloved country. land and national agricultural producers which the Head of the State gives special role while another – picturesque landscapes with The event has been finished with kushtdepdy of intellectual engine of further development mountains, valleys, inhabitants of preserved dance, during which white doves – symbols of of the country, has appeared on the square. It places of the nature and ahalateke horses, have peace and happiness, good wishes and hope, is followed by health protection and medical come in front of the tribune. have been set to the sky with air balloons. industry spheres. The models, which reflected

36 Diplomatic Focus December 2020 www.diplomaticfocus.org 25th Anniversary of the Permanent Neutrality of Turkmenistan

www.diplomaticfocus.org Diplomatic Focus December 2020 37 2020 Year - Turkmenistan - Home of Neutrality

Brieﬁng dedicated to cooperation of Turkmenistan with the international organizations in the area of healthcare was held in the MFA, Turkmenistan protecting the children’s health. Ms. Weigand underlined that “Turkmenistan is a leader in the region and globally on sustaining nearly universal rates of vaccination.” The Head of WHO Country Office in Turkmenistan Ms. Paulina Karwowska informed during her speech about the high efficiency of cooperation between Turkmenistan and WHO, as well as other international partners and donors. This topic was further elaborated by Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the European Union to Turkmenistan Diego Ruiz Alonso, who emphasized that Brussels pays special attention to cooperation in the area of healthcare and supports the preventive plans and programmes of Turkmenistan in relation to healthcare in the conditions of global pandemic. In turn, the Rector of the State Medical University of Turkmenistan named after Myrat Garryev Ms.N.Myratnazarova noted that “in recent years, Turkmenistan has achieved great results, conducting continuous and extensive work in the field of immunization and the effective use of evidence-based approaches in the field of public health.” The Government of Turkmenistan significantly increased the financing of immunization of the population. The country adheres to the long- term cooperation with the UN and its specialized agencies. In this regard, the collaboration of the country with the United Nations Children’s On the 5th of October 2020, a briefing was held the country, as well as the representatives of Fund (UNICEF) is stipulated by the efficient in the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Turkmenistan national and foreign mass media participated implementation of joint programs and plans on dedicated to cooperation of Turkmenistan with to the briefing. the national level aimed at the enhancement of the international organizations in the area of Opening the briefing, Deputy Minister of measures in the area of healthcare, including healthcare. Foreign Affairs of Turkmenistan B.Myatiyev the social security system on the way to the The briefing focused on the recently signed noted the special importance of the expansion achievement of the Sustainable Development Resolution of the President of Turkmenistan, in of international cooperation of Turkmenistan in Goals. accordance with which the Minister of Health the field of healthcare. In the framework of the event, the signing and Medical Industry was authorized to sign During his speech, the Minister of Health of the Plan for Procurement of Vaccines and on behalf of the Turkmen side the Plan for and Medical Industry of Turkmenistan Immunization Devices in 2021-2025 under the Procurement of Vaccines and Immunization N.Amannepesov reflected the high indicators Framework of the Standard “Memorandum of Devices in 2021-2025 under the Framework of of the activities of the healthcare system in Understanding on the Provision of Procurement the Standard “Memorandum of Understanding the framework of the implementation of the Services between the Government of on the Provision of Procurement Services National Immunization Programme financed Turkmenistan and UNICEF, United Nations between the Government of Turkmenistan by the Government. He added that “the Children’s Fund,” signed on 28 August 2015 and UNICEF, United Nations Children’s Fund,” long-term practice of stable financing in the took place. signed on 28 August 2015. country enabled to build a strong system of This Document was signed by the Minister of The heads and representatives of the Ministry immunization”. Health and Medical Industry of Turkmenistan of Foreign Affairs, Ministry of Health and The Head of UNICEF Office in Turkmenistan N.Amannepesov on the part of Turkmenistan Medical Industry of Turkmenistan, the chiefs Ms. Christine Weigand highly appraised the and by the Head of UNICEF Office in of the diplomatic missions and representations cooperation with Turkmenistan in the field Turkmenistan Ms. Christine Weigand on the of international organizations accredited in of healthcare, in particular in the area of part of UNICEF.

38 Diplomatic Focus December 2020 www.diplomaticfocus.org 25th Anniversary of the Permanent Neutrality of Turkmenistan

www.diplomaticfocus.org Diplomatic Focus December 2020 39 2020 Year - Turkmenistan - Home of Neutrality

ONLINE DIPLOMATIC COURSES ON THE TOPIC NEUTRALITY OF TURKMENISTAN - FOR THE SAKE OF PEACE, STABILITY AND SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT On October 21-23, 2020, at the Institute of Relations of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs the foreign policy of Turkmenistan, carried International Relations of the Ministry of of Turkmenistan J.Gurbangeldyev made an out in accordance with the principles of Foreign Affairs of Turkmenistan, a three-day opening speech, who noted Turkmenistan’s permanent neutrality, which calls for peace, online diplomatic courses for young diplomats commitment to expanding political and mutual understanding and objective interstate of foreign countries were held on the topic diplomatic dialogue with the countries of the relations. “Neutrality of Turkmenistan - for the sake of world within the framework of the policy of Leading diplomats, specialists from the Ministry peace, stability and sustainable development”, positive neutrality of the state. He expressed of Foreign Affairs of Turkmenistan and the organized by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of hope that these courses will allow diplomats teaching staff of specialized universities of the Turkmenistan. from different countries of the world to learn country have been invited to deliver lectures more about the specifics of the permanent More than 30 diplomats from 15 countries in the online format, who comprehensively Neutrality of Turkmenistan, which, under of the world, in particular from Afghanistan, covered novice diplomats on the above the leadership of President of Turkmenistan Uzbekistan, Russia, Turkey, Belarus, Austria, topics, as well as talk about the features of Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov, is taking the USA, Hungary, the Republic of South Africa, Turkmenistan’s neutrality. important steps to achieve peace, stability and Malaysia, Pakistan, Armenia, China, Japan and sustainable development in the world and in The program was very busy. Participants of Iran attended in these courses. the region. online courses immersed themselves in lively As is known, these courses, timed to coincide discussions and asked questions to experts of On these courses, the rector of the International with the 25th anniversary of the permanent Turkmen diplomacy. Young diplomats of foreign University for Humanities and Development, as neutrality of Turkmenistan, are aimed at countries learned of such topics as “The history well as the mentors of Turkmen diplomacy - increasing the participants’ awareness of this of the Turkmen model of neutrality and its Ambassadors Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary status of the state, its role in the implementation successful implementation”, “Turkmenistan of Turkmenistan, who teach young Turkmen of foreign policy. and the United Nations - interaction on the diplomats the basics of diplomatic service, humanitarian line”, “Energy, transport and On the opening day of diplomatic courses, delivered lectures. The lecturers spoke about environmental diplomacy of Turkmenistan” and the Rector of the Institute of International the intricacies of Turkmen diplomacy and others.

40 Diplomatic Focus December 2020 www.diplomaticfocus.org 25th Anniversary of the Permanent Neutrality of Turkmenistan 25 MILLION TREE SAPLINGS WILL BE PLANTED IN TURKMENISTAN IN 2020 IN HONOR OF THE 25TH ANNIVERSARY OF THE COUNTRY’S NEUTRALITY

In 2020, 25 million saplings of deciduous, fruit 25 million seedlings of deciduous, coniferous, Environmental Center for Central Asia and many trees and grapes will be planted throughout fruit trees and grapes will be planted in other international and regional structures. Turkmenistan. This number marks the 25th Turkmenistan during 2020. This action, in As is known, the policy of Turkmenistan in anniversary of the country’s permanent turn, provides for the implementation of a the field of environmental diplomacy is aimed neutrality. nationwide greening program in the country, at ensuring the priority of protecting human primarily from the point of view of the country’s Some of the trees were planted during life and health, preserving and restoring the environmental well-being and is timed to a a nationwide planting campaign held on environment, combining environmental, significant date, the 25th anniversary of the November 7 with the participation of President economic and social interests of society in country’s neutrality. of Turkmenistan Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov. order to ensure sustainable development and It was also attended by members of the It is important to note that one of the key a favourable environment for full-fledged life. government, heads and representatives of directions of the foreign policy of neutral Taking into account the seriousness of ministries and sectoral departments, including Turkmenistan is cooperation with the UN and environmental problems that require the numerous residents of the country. Today, other authoritative organizations in the field of involvement of an increasing number of factors, every resident of Turkmenistan planted about comprehensive promotion of green diplomacy. having joined dozens of UN conventions, 30 seedlings. Today, Turkmenistan actively cooperates with Turkmenistan responsibly approaches the United Nations Development Program and According to the Decree of the President of the solution of the tasks of sustainable the United Nations Environment Program, the Turkmenistan dated January 31 of this year development facing the world community. World Environmental Fund, the International “On planting trees in Turkmenistan in 2020”, The country also put forward a number of Fund for Saving the Aral Sea (IFAS), the Regional www.diplomaticfocus.org Diplomatic Focus December 2020 41 2020 Year - Turkmenistan - Home of Neutrality

proposals on sustainable During the chairmanship in IFAS on the the Pacific (ESCAP) in May 2021 an initial draft development, careful use of initiative of Turkmenistan on April 12, 2018 and of the concept and structure of the future water and energy resources May 28, 2019, the General Assembly adopted Special Program. and ensuring food security, resolutions “On cooperation between the The preservation of biodiversity and ecological reducing the risks of natural disasters, during United Nations and the International Fund for balance in the Caspian Sea is also one of the the sessions of the UN General Assembly, high- Saving the Aral Sea (IFAS)”. priority tasks of the regional and international level conferences. In this aspect, it should be emphasized that ecological interaction of Turkmenistan. In this context, it should be emphasized that during the current 75th session of the General Today, the country has developed the Concept Turkmenistan calls on the world community to Assembly, Turkmenistan will continue to of a new Caspian environmental program, the pay close attention to the ecological catastrophe implement the initiative put forward by the draft of which will be considered in the near of the Aral Sea. The air masses formed in the President of Turkmenistan at the Rio + 20 future during the next meeting of the parties to zone of ecological disaster caused by the drying Sustainable Development Summit to create a UN the Framework Convention for the Protection up of the Aral Sea have an extremely negative Special Program for the Aral Sea Basin and the of the Marine Environment of the Caspian Sea. impact on nature, climate, and the general life country also intends submit for consideration of people living in the Aral Sea region and far at the regular session of the United Nations beyond it. Economic and Social Commission for Asia and

42 Diplomatic Focus December 2020 www.diplomaticfocus.org 25th Anniversary of the Permanent Neutrality of Turkmenistan

www.diplomaticfocus.org Diplomatic Focus December 2020 43 2020 Year - Turkmenistan - Home of Neutrality

44 Diplomatic Focus December 2020 www.diplomaticfocus.org 25th Anniversary of the Permanent Neutrality of Turkmenistan POLICY OF NEUTRALITY PLATFORM OF ECONOMIC INTEGRATION President Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov National economy is successfully diversified Today, economic policy is targeted at has defined stable progress of national by use of rich natural, economic and innovative development, establishment of economy, efficient development of industrial, investment capabilities and expansion of powerful industrial potential, strengthening investment, social, agricultural, transport interstate cooperation enhancing its foreign and expansion of profile infrastructure. and communication spheres and sphere of economic potential. Qualitative and gradual formation of efficient services, rational use of natural resources, economy with modern market relations, Turkmenistan has entered its way of strengthening of foreign economic relations, which is targeted at the achievement of high development of market relations continuing improvement of competiveness of local stable growth rates is the priority. socially oriented course and greening of manufacturers as the main components of economic branches, rational use of natural Based on the status of permanent neutrality, economic policy of Turkmenistan. reserves and efficient adaptation to the which marks its 25th anniversary this year, All of these is aimed at solution of the main climate change. Large-scale reforms are Turkmenistan increases its production goal – the stability of social and economic introduced gradually in the country, big potential every year. This is confirmed by development, steadfast growth of wealth international and national projects are international financial institutes including the and life quality of the population. implemented, hundreds of production and World Bank, according to which classification social facilities have been built and put into our country is among the states with upper- In the context of modernization of national operation. middle-income. All of these makes significant economy, t is important to benchmark all prepositions for provision of stable increment what was achieved against the indicators Important projects, which are to add of national revenue and, despite negative and data existing today in the world, to aim stability to economic development in future tendencies in the world economy at present, at the achievements of the world experience, and provide qualitative developments in the branches of national economy keep President Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov its structure as well as to improve life of stable growth rates. notes. Our goal is to move toward further Turkmenistan citizens, have been successfully social and democratic development steady implemented in the last years. Thus, during extended session of the and purposefully. All reforms, which we Government dedicated to the outcomes of These include the projects of National Avaza have initiated, pursue one goal to merge 9 months of 2020, President Gurbanguly tourist zone, construction of Turkmenistan organically to the system of the world Berdimuhamedov has brought up such data: – China, Turkmenistan – Iran, East- West economy organically as soon as possible. the growth domestic product has increased gas line, the North – South transnational by 5.8 percent comparing with the same 1991, when Turkmenistan received its railroad, Serhetabat – Turgundy railway, period of the last year, the growth rate in independence, has come a starting point motor and railway bridge across Amudarya trade sector was 18.1 percent, the production of the country’s development. Grandiose River, international airports in Ashgabat, volume has grown by 4.2 percent. successes have been achieved in the Turkmenbashy, Turkmenabat, International formation of own national model of socially Seaport in Turkmenbashy. Stability of the growth of national product is oriented market economy in the country based on increment of production volume Such industrial giants as Garlyk Potassium in following years and at present time, the in all sectors of the economy – industry, Plant, carbamide plants in Mary and process of its improvement is continued agriculture, construction and service Garabogaz, petrochemical complex in kiyanly, taking into account internal interests and sphere. Economic progress of the country is plant for production of gasoline from natural common tendencies of globalization of the stimulated by significant resource potential, gas and glass factory in Ahal Region and many world community. stability of demand as well as by big other can be added to this list. investments to priority directions of the state Solid foundation of stable country’s At the same time, the construction of development. development in long-term perspective has Turkmenistan – Afghanistan – Pakistan been made in Turkmenistan in historical Social and economic policy of Turkmenistan – India gas pipeline and Turkmenistan – short period and profile structure of the is aimed at improvement of life conditions Afghanistan – Pakistan power and fibre optic economy has been improved as the result of and wealth of the population. Major part lines is actively continued. All of these will fundamental changes. of the State budget is sent for improvement allow strengthening position of our country of health protection, education, culture and As of today, the country has developed in the world market and providing additional municipal services. production infrastructure, ramified transport income of foreign currency. and communication system and rich human Financial and economic system, which forms Transition to the model of sustainable potential. up the balance of monetary circulation, development, which is based on purchasing power of national currency and At present time, Turkmenistan is at the macroeconomic regulation, diversification dynamics of social and economic growth, stage of new economic reforms based on of branches and market reformation, plays an important role in stable development application of modern equipment and development of small and medium of the country. advanced technologies, digitization of all entrepreneurship are important conditions branches, establishment of innovative of solution of current economic objectives. Provision of access to financial services and production structures, intensification of the In particular, it is carried out under economic resources to all citizens of the integration to the world economic system, Turkmenistan’s implementation of the country is an important objective of the expansion of international cooperation and Sustainable Development Goals announced Government policy pursued by President activation of investment activity. by the United Nations Organization. Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov in financial www.diplomaticfocus.org Diplomatic Focus December 2020 45 2020 Year - Turkmenistan - Home of Neutrality

and economic sphere. organizations, transformation into credits technologies and provision of digital Being an important entity and investments, expansion of existing and services to the population. High-technology of the currency issue introduction new services as well as support transformation allows expanding the list and the main institutional to the development of the economy remain of banking services and opportunities conductor of the monetary policy of the priority objectives of the banking system of of national payment system, enhancing state, supporting and providing financial Turkmenistan. competiveness of credit facilities. flows in the country and development of the Specific measures have been taken by Fir examples, Joint Stock Commercial Rysgal economy, the banking sector plays the main financial institutes of the country throughout Bank actively works on implementation role in operation of the system of local and last years for introduction of new banking of payment system using QR-codes in the international payments. operations and innovative technologies, country, which allows making payments Two-tiered banking system, which has been improvement of business process using smartphones. established for the years of independence management, increasing capitalization of Implementation of the Sustainable and represented by the Central Bank of national banks and other measures and other Development Goals, which were adopted Turkmenistan and nine banks of various services. The banks of Turkmenistan work by all UN state members in September 2015 ownership, works successfully today. purposefully on improvement of quality of and representing the foundation of the 2030 services, implementation of perspective President Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov Global Agenda, is one of the key directions ideas and entry to new level of service. notes that further support of stable of social and economic policy of Turkmen exchange rate of manat, expansion of scales According to the instructions of the Head leader. and improvement of quality of banking of the state, works for improvement of the Gradual work is carried out in the country services with their entry to international system of non-cash payments, in particular for these days for achievement of the SDGs. level, introduction of the best world practice wide introduction of cards to various spheres The country has already managed to achieve to activity of profile facilities are the of the economy, as well as for development significant results in social and economic main objectives of the banking sphere of of electronic document management system policy, to intensify the transit to market Turkmenistan. are carried out in the financial and banking relations, continue socially oriented course sphere of regular basis. Internet banking The banks also play an important role in of economic growth, keep positive indicators services, which allows reporting on account provision of credit resources to various for provision of the population with statements and conducted bank operations branches of the economy, they are financial affordable and qualitative medical services by ‘client – bank’ system, are expanded. sources of big investment projects and and education, take efficient measures for working capital. Thus, credit facilities of The banks make beneficial conditions for adaptation and mitigation of the impact the country give loans for development of attraction of financial resources and active caused by the climate change. farms, industrial facilities, service sphere and participation of the population in financial Implementation of these measures in processing of agricultural production. market sphere. Development of technological Turkmenistan is a logical continuation types of service was observed in the growth At the same time, long-term crediting is of social policy of President Gurbanguly of number of remote devices for provision rapidly developed in the country at the Berdimuhamedov, which is aimed at of certain banking services. Thus, more than account of such directions as crediting of provision of food abundance, improvement 2,200 ATMs have been installed and operate private producers under the program of credit of common wealth of the population, in the country. support of investment projects of national widespread adoption of healthy life style, entrepreneurs for opening or expansion of Introduction and use of digital technologies making of conditions for all-inclusive, fair and production facilities. are among the most important priorities qualitative education, provision of gender of stable development of the state. The equality, efficient use of water and energy Beneficial financing conditions have been transition to digital society in our country is resources, industrialization and innovation of made for fulfilment of strategic economic implemented in accordance with the Concept all spheres of the economy. objectives related to restructuring of of development of digital economy. branches, industrialization, introduction of Stable economic growth directly depends on innovations as well as with enhancement Development of digital economy opens wide successful implementation of the programs of of the role of private entrepreneurship, capabilities for introduction of effective improvement of wellbeing of the population, which provided the growth rate of crediting systems, which support long-term economic life quality of the citizens of protection of including the crediting of non-government growth and are the main objectives in social guarantees. establishments. achievement of stable development of the In this regard, National Program of Reduction economy. At the same time, beneficial mortgage credits of the impact of complicated situation in for procurement of comfortable living on Big range of activities for rapid transition to the world economy on the economy of the beneficial terms are granted to the citizens digital society is carried out at present time. country and stable development of national for improvement of living conditions and Many elements of digital economy work in economy for 2020 – 2021, which is additional wealth of the population. In particular, the different spheres in the country these days. measure to the activity carried out by the credit is granted on long-term basis up to 30 Active work is carried out for implementation Government of the country for prevention of years with one percent annual rate and with of modern resources, which expands the negative external impact, has been adopted 5-year grace period. range of non-cash payments, banking cards, in July 2020 taking into account global transport services, health protection systems, situation. Further protection of interests of the creditors education and other services. and investors, improvement of efficiency of At the same time, the Plan of Social and activity of banking sector in accumulation The banking sector of Turkmenistan does Economic Activities against severe infectious of financial resources of the population and wide-scale work for introduction of digital disease pandemic in Turkmenistan have

46 Diplomatic Focus December 2020 www.diplomaticfocus.org 25th Anniversary of the Permanent Neutrality of Turkmenistan been adopted in July 2020. The Plan covers provides the provision of stable and all- In particular, it will allow such important directions as improvement inclusive growth of national economy. accumulating credit of quality and access to the main health resources for financing of Therefore, implementation of all planned protection services, provision of social new production facilities, program activities will give opportunity to security and basic social services, protection coming over to information society, which in form up developed market infrastructure, to of work place, support of small and medium its turn will make positive effect of economic integrate fully into global economic system business, macroeconomic stimulation and power of Turkmenistan. and to increase foreign trade significantly in multilateral cooperation. the nearest future. These success and achievements of national All of these indicates that Turkmenistan economy are provided by the policy of Wide implementation of innovative confidently move forward along the way neutrality, which 25th anniversary will be technologies to all spheres of production of progress and further enhancement of celebrated by the world community together will give opportunity to enhance the wellbeing of the people. with Turkmen people on December 12, 2020, competiveness of national producers, to of President Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov. At the same time, implementation of the expand the volume of local commodity and Sustainable Development Agenda is a service market and to strengthen financial Gadyrgeldy Mushikov, Deputy Chairman of strategic objectives of our state, which and economic system. the Cabinet of Ministers of Turkmenistan

www.diplomaticfocus.org Diplomatic Focus December 2020 47 2020 Year - Turkmenistan - Home of Neutrality INTERNATIONAL ECOLOGICAL INITIATIVES OF NEUTRAL TURKMENISTAN

Independent, Permanently Neutral the issues of climate change, environmental of the Caspian Ecological Program aimed Turkmenistan, by conducting multilateral protection, and sustainable use of natural at biodiversity conservation in the Caspian humanitarian cooperation with international resources. Sea, and the initiative of our county on organizations, consistently presents relevant creating a UN Special Program for the Aral It is a matter of pride for our Turkmen constructive initiatives to the various Sea region are clear examples that our state nation that the initiatives set forth bythe structures of the United Nations, aimed at accumulated exemplary experience in the President of Turkmenistan to improve the prosperous future of humanity. environmental protection issues. These new ecological diplomacy in ensuring sustainable initiatives are widely supported by the world One of the key areas of cooperation of development are among the priority community. Turkmenistan with the United Nations and issues that will be considered during the its institutions, which strictly adheres to the 75th session of the UN General Assembly. There are numerous scientific theories principles of neutrality, is connected with Development of the draft of the Concept that human beings are in harmony with

48 Diplomatic Focus December 2020 www.diplomaticfocus.org 25th Anniversary of the Permanent Neutrality of Turkmenistan the natural, social, and cultural-spiritual Ecological Data, and Forest Code”, “Water the Caspian Sea. The environments. It is a matter of pride that it is Code” improve and strengthen the legal President of Turkmenistan reflected in the cultural and spiritual heritage framework for environmental work in our noted that science has of the Turkmen people, which is passed on state. a special importance in generation to generation from our ancestors. maintaining ecological balance Turkmenistan, implementing a series of and unique biological diversity of the Caspian Under the leadership of the President of UN conventions on nature conservation, Sea. Practically speaking, this means that Turkmenistan all sectors of the economy are including the Convention on Conservation all economic projects in the Caspian region developing in accordance with scientifically and Restoration of Land Resources, is must be implemented on the basis of high based programs, the living standards of the actively involved in addressing pressing international environmental standards. In population are improving and the cultural environmental issues of regional and national this regard, the President of Turkmenistan sector is expanding. Under the scientifically importance. Our country consistently made a proposal to create a new Caspian based programs, of our state are changing, underlying importance of coordinating Ecological Program as a set of conservation developing. This contributes to the international efforts to address the most measures aimed at the protection and development of society, social consciousness, pressing issues from the rostrum of UN sustainable use of the rich natural resources as well as the culture and education of General Assembly, set forth a number of of the Caspian Sea. Not only continental, but individual. positive proposals, including water issues and also global importance of the Caspian Sea the situation in the Aral Sea, as well as the The book of the President of Turkmenistan was highlighted. Not only the importance of creation of a UN Regional Center for Climate “Traditions of Turkmen Statehood” gives its energy resources, which are capable of Change in Ashgabat. In the country ecological detailed information about the Turkmen bringing enormous benefits to all mankind, projects are being implemented on the basis people’s centuries-old unique material but also the importance of ecological system of national nature protection programs. and spiritual culture and national heritage, of this beautiful Sea was underlined, which is passed down from generation to generation, Turkmenistan emphasizes important role unique in the world. carefully preserved and developed. President of developing international cooperation in Environmental issues are at the forefront of Turkmenistan in the section of the book addressing important environmental issues. of the global agenda today, as they are entitled “Prosperity of the Earth and Eternity Our country, in close cooperation with directly connected with the future of of Life” states: “Our ancestors instilled in international structures such as the United civilization and the possibility of that future their wisdom the importance of preserving Nations Development Program, the United for many peoples. Therefore, environmental the resources and beauty of the Earth for Nations Environment Program, and the diplomacy is becoming an integral part of future generations”. Global Environment Facility, is implementing international politics. In his historic speech at large-scale environmental programs and The measures at the international and the first Caspian Economic Forum, attaching projects. Turkmenistan has acceded to and national levels aimed at the implementation great importance to this issue, President of ratified a number of very important UN of the strategy of environmentally Turkmenistan Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov environmental conventions. sound socio-economic development of emphasized the need to carry out scientific Turkmenistan. Experience has shown the importance of research in the field of nature protection. global community support, a holistic approach With the adoption of the Law of In his speech at the XVIII Summit of the Heads and active and systematic UN participation Turkmenistan “On Ecological Safety”, for of State and Government of the Non-Aligned in addressing global environmental issues, the first time, it was possible to compile the Movement in Baku on October 25-26, 2019, including the Aral Sea. The member states of main environmental safety issues in a single the President of Turkmenistan particularly the International Fund for Saving the Aral Sea document. The aforementioned legislation underlined the issue of protection of have adopted three phases of the “Program includes measures for relationship between the Caspian Sea, its ecology and unique of Specific Actions for the Improvement legal entities and persons in conducting biodiversity as the global issue. of the Ecological and Social and Economic economic and other activities, and protection Situation in the Aral Sea Basin” and are taking Independent, Permanently Neutral of the environment from anthropogenic and appropriate steps in this regard. Turkmenistan has been recognized around natural influences. the world as a country that has made Turkmenistan chaired the International Fund Under the leadership of the President of tremendous efforts to ensure peace, security, for Saving the Aral Sea in 2017-2019. Our Turkmenistan, all favorable conditions are and sustainable development on Earth. country is actively cooperating with Central created for conducting scientific research Asian countries to save the Aral Sea. In his book “Traditions of Turkmen and putting the achievements of science Statehood”, which is scientifically based, and into practice. In today’s world, science is Our country carried out the wide-ranging reveals uniqueness of the national heritage developing a new method, innovations, tasks set out in the “Concept of Chairing the of the Turkmen people, the President of to meet the development of the world International Fund for Saving the Aral Sea”. Turkmenistan notes “Nature is balance. All community. In this connection, harmonizing On August 24, 2018, the Summit of the Heads the wealth in it has a special meaning”. the innovative innovations of science with of the Founding States of the International the environmental protection is one of the As, ecological well-being is the well-being of Fund for Saving the Aral Sea was held in main requirements of the time. peoples, states, and all of humanity. the Avaza National Tourist Zone under the The laws of Tukmenistan on Protection of leadership of the President of Turkmenistan. Ogulgurban Ezimova, Acting Head of Ozone Layer, on Fishery and Protection of At the summit issues of cooperation in the the Department of Social Sciences of the Aquatic biological Resources, on Protection field of ecology in the region were discussed, Institute of International Relations of the of Specially Protected Natural Territories, and a Declaration was adopted. Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Turkmenistan, on Ecological Audit, on Protection of Senior Lecturer, Candidate of Philosophical On August 12, 2019, the I Caspian Economic Atmospheric air, on Ecological Safety, on Sciences. Forum was held on the Turkmen coast of www.diplomaticfocus.org Diplomatic Focus December 2020 49 2020 Year - Turkmenistan - Home of Neutrality The Policy of Good Neighborliness, Peace-loving and Sustainable Development Foreign policy choice of Turkmenistan - neutrality is in line with worldview, traditions, and mentality of the Turkmen people, which is recognized and supported by the Resolution of the UN General Assembly on “Permanent Neutrality of Turkmenistan” on December 12, 1995. This historical document calls for member states to support neutral status of Turkmenistan, and respect independence, sovereignty and territorial integrity of the country. “Neutrality has been one of the foundations of statehood, its internal and foreign policies for a quarter of a century. The principles of neutrality, its values and ideology have proven their full compliance with our national interests and the UN objectives and tasks” said highly esteemed President of Turkmenistan in his video address to the participants of the 75th anniversary session of UN General Assembly. Fundamental principles of Neutrality are peace-loving, non-interference in the affairs of others states, respect for their sovereignty and territorial integrity, non-participation in international military organizations and agreements. Neutrality status of Turkmenistan is important factor for strengthening stability and security, as well as development of multilateral economic and humanitarian cooperation. Turkmenistan always stands for strengthening friendship and good neighborliness, and further activation of fruitful cooperation in all directions. The motto of 2020 “Turkmenistan – Homeland of Neutrality” is inextricably connected with humanistic principles, which are the basis of the internal and foreign policy of our esteemed President. The universal formula of cooperation developed by our national Leader fully correspond to global progressive trends of human development. Proving itself as responsible long-term UN partner, firmly committed to practical

50 Diplomatic Focus December 2020 www.diplomaticfocus.org 25th Anniversary of the Permanent Neutrality of Turkmenistan implementation of the obligations undertaken, Turkmenistan - Azerbaijan - Georgia – Turkey symbolic, noted our highly Turkmenistan actively participates in (Lazurite), uniting countries of Middle East, esteemed President in international efforts to strengthen peace, Southeast and Central Asia, as well as countries his historic video address, security, sustainable development and of Caucasus with exit to Europe, Uzbekistan - that the United Nations cooperation in the world. Our esteemed Turkmenistan - Iran - Oman corridor connecting Regional Centre for Preventive Diplomacy for President declares readiness to act as a reliable Central Asian countries with the Persian Gulf Central Asia was established by the decision UN partner in such important issues as ensuring region, will turn our Homeland into logistics of the General Assembly with the support peace and security on the Planet, finding center. of neighboring states and Security Council solutions for global challenges and threats, members in Ashgabat, the capital city of neutral The Leader of the nation noted a special role promotion of sustainable development, Turkmenistan in 2007. Within the framework of of WTO in restoration work of the global environmental well-being, peaceful settlement the session Turkmenistan to put forward draft economy, stimulation of trade and investment. of the situation in Afghanistan. In his video Resolution on “Role of the Regional Center for “Having recently obtained observer status in address at the anniversary session of the Preventive Diplomacy for Central Asia”. the WTO, Turkmenistan will actively use the UN General Assembly our deeply esteemed opportunities opened in this regard to promote Today, issues related with the Aral Sea go President voiced specific initiatives of our practical measures to overcome quickly the far beyond Central Asia. Measures taken by country, aimed at consolidating efforts to crisis phenomena in the world economy, Turkmenistan in finding a solution to the develop positive solutions for pressing issues its transition to positive dynamics” said our Aral Sea problem receive wide support in the of modernity, optimization of constructive national Leader in his address at the 75th world community. Turkmenistan makes a cooperation directed at world prosperity and anniversary session of UN General Assembly. significant contribution to the intensification progress. of the fruitful cooperation aimed at positive Possessing enormous hydrocarbon reserves Our national Leader called COVID-19 as a global solution of environmental, social, economic and using these natural resources for the world challenge that does not recognize borders, races, and humanitarian issues in the Aral Sea region, well-being, Turkmenistan greatly contributes and nationalities, which has a detrimental effect and rational use of water resources. In addition, to the provision of the regional and the world on all spheres of civilizational development. practical measures are taken to prevent energy security. Developing mutually beneficial Our country has taken all necessary measures desertification. international cooperation in energy sector, our to counter this threat. Turkmenistan suggests country implements large-scale projects aimed As is known, UN General Assembly unanimously to consider issues related with development at creating a diversified export infrastructure for adopted Turkmenistan initiated Resolutions and establishment of international tools. In its energy resources. These grandiose projects “On cooperation between the United Nations particular, to establish a special program of will give a powerful impetus for the economic and the International Fund for Saving the Aral the World Health Organization to research the development of the region, will become levers Sea”. Our country also set forth a proposal on coronavirus genome, to develop a multilateral in solving problems social and humanitarian development of the Special UN Program for mechanism for pneumonia control, establish a character, and also in strengthening peace and the Aral Sea Basin, which will include measures Methodological Center for the Treatment and stability. on stabilization of the situation. Developing Prevention of Acute Infections. international legal foundations to address Clear examples are transnational gas pipeline Transportation, energy, ecology are priority the Aral Sea issues, Turkmenistan will present Turkmenistan - China, as well as gas pipeline areas of foreign policy direction of Turkmenistan. initial draft of the concept and structure of Turkmenistan - Afghanistan - Pakistan - Today, promotion of cooperation in transport future Special program on the Aral Sea in India (TAPI). Another important project is sphere is of great importance for sustainable the framework of ESCATO sessions in May construction of power line Turkmenistan - development of countries and regions. In this 2021, calling upon all states and interested Afghanistan – Pakistan (TAP), which will pass regard, Turkmenistan suggests to consider international organizations to consider these along gas pipeline of the same name and will the issue of ensuring stable international documents. give the opportunity to deliver electricity to transportation during emergencies. Relevant Pakistan and other countries of the South Asia As is known, the 73rd session of UN General draft Resolution of the General Assembly has by transit through Afghanistan. Underlying Assembly adopted the Resolution on the been prepared and presented for consideration the importance of these projects our highly initiative of Turkmenistan declaring the year of the member states. esteemed President said: “The key condition 2021 as the year of international peace and Great attention is paid to modernization of for political stabilization, social and economic trust”. Turkmenistan put forward an initiative transport infrastructure in Turkmenistan: recovery of Afghanistan, its successful to organize International forum on peace and large-scale reconstruction of existing and integration to global economy is to implement trust next year to implement provisions of this construction of new modern automobiles and large infrastructure projects with Afghanistan’s resolution, which will give a strong impetus railways connecting regions of the country involvement primarily in vital sectors such as to constructive and respectful multilateral and neighboring states are consistently energy, transport and communications”. Our dialogue on pressing subjects of modern carried out. International Airports of country as Afghanistan’s neutral and immediate global agenda. The motto of the current year Ashgabat, Turkmenbashi, Mary, Turkmenabat neighboring state is ready to provide necessary “Turkmenistan - Homeland of Neutrality” and Dashoguz are an integral part of the political and organizational conditions in interconnected with global initiatives, put national transport and logistics system. Today, our territory to establish peaceful dialogue forward by our highly esteemed President. International seaport in Turkmenbashi, which between the Government of Afghanistan and Today Turkmenistan acts as reliable and an was put into operation in May 2018, is the all parties interested in political settlement of authoritative partner in solution of key issues “water gate” of the region. the situation in Afghanistan. of international cooperation. Transit and transport routes in the direction Turkmenistan takes active in the positive Gapbar Hallyyev, Lecturer of the Institute of North - South and East - West contribute solution of all pressing issues of the global and International Relations of the Ministry of further development of cooperation between regional level, using only peaceful, political Foreign Affairs of Turkmenistan countries. Transport Corridor Afghanistan - diplomatic means and methods. It is highly www.diplomaticfocus.org Diplomatic Focus December 2020 51 2020 Year - Turkmenistan - Home of Neutrality

The “Turkmen Model” of Neutrality Any state that has gained its independence and policy direction. The principles such as respect Final Declaration of the Economic Cooperation sovereignty has to define some important tasks for the territorial integrity and sovereignty of Organization summit in Islamabad, in March related to its future destiny. Turkmenistan, other states, non-interference in their internal 1995. At the meeting, Turkmenistan made which gained state independence on October affairs, non-use of force in interstate relations, a special statement on the constitutional 27, 1991, has made a decisive decision on foreign prioritization of UN resolutions in international commitment of the Permanent Neutral State. policy: the country’s foreign policy strategy affairs, strengthening cooperation and At the meeting of the Heads of Government must be based on the principles of positive good-neighborliness with all countries were and Heads of State of the Non-Aligned neutrality. In this regard, at the OSCE summit in considered. Movement in Carthage in October of the Helsinki in July 1992, Turkmenistan announced same year, a resolution was adopted by the The Declaration of Turkmenistan’s neutrality for the first time that it was choosing a positive representatives of the member states of the was first recognized at the regional level in the Neutrality principle as the basis of its foreign Organization on the Granting of Permanent

52 Diplomatic Focus December 2020 www.diplomaticfocus.org 25th Anniversary of the Permanent Neutrality of Turkmenistan

states of the United Nations, the highest development” put forward representative international body in the world, by our Esteemed President is an international legal status. At its source, proposes in strategic areas it adheres to the high humanitarian principles such as political issues, of the Turkmen people, such as peace-loving, economics, energy, ecology and mutual respect, and humanity, which have been the humanitarian system the preference of the banner of the millennium. Therefore, the kindnesses considered as a main principle of tasks arising from the level of Turkmenistan’s neutrality. Permanent Neutrality are important in The books on philosophy say that the more strengthening peace, ensuring sustainable human beings are on the Earth, the more development and prosperity around the world. philosophy there is. This means that everyone’s At present, the world community unanimously opinion of anything is different, not the same. recognizes that the goals of the “Turkmen But on the one hand - there is no doubt that model” of neutrality are fully in line with the everyone agrees on the notion of “peace.” tasks and requirements of global development, That is why Turkmenistan’s Neutrality Policy and the principles of the United Nations are is constantly expanding its potential for peace prioritized in this sphere. With the support by strengthening its role as a call for universal of all Central Asian states, the United Nations peace. The second adoption of the Decree Regional Center for Preventive Diplomacy “Permanent Neutrality of Turkmenistan” with for Central Asia was opened in Ashgabat in support of 193 states at the 69th session of December 2007. The main task of the Center the UN General Assembly on June 3, 2015 is is to help the Central Asian states to create another testament to the high recognition of a platform for dialogue and dialogue on the Turkmen Neutrality, peace-loving diplomacy in prevention of potential threats in Central the world community. Asia, the establishment of new directions for In his historic address, President Gurbanguly strengthening effective relations within the Berdimuhamedov initiated the establishment region. of International Neutrality Day to further The effectiveness of preventive diplomacy has strengthen the global significance of neutrality passed the test of time. During his video address at the conference on December 12, 2015, to the 75th anniversary session of the UN dedicated to the 20th anniversary of Turkmen General Assembly, President of Turkmenistan Neutrality. The unanimous adoption of the Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov highlighted the Resolution on the proclamation of December role and work of the UN Regional Center for 12 as International Neutrality Day at the 71st Preventive Diplomacy for Central Asia. And session of the United Nations General Assembly actively supports the work and initiatives of on February 2, 2017, was widely supported by this Center, which has carried out significant the President’s proposal in 2015. work to promote political-diplomatic, Addressing our compatriots on the occasion, trade-economic and cultural-humanitarian which further enhanced the decisive cooperation among them. Turkmenistan has significance of the experience of Turkmen been cooperating effectively with the Regional Neutrality, the President said: “We attach Center for Preventive Diplomacy for Central great importance to strengthen neutrality in Asia on regional security issues, including the Turkmenistan and are proud of its unique legal United Nations Global Strategy on Terrorism. status. Overcoming the threats and threats of the present, especially the global pandemic and its Neutrality is our doctrine, it calls for peace socio-economic impact, plays a special role in around the world, for the development the current interactions. of friendly and fraternal relations among peoples, for the promotion of humanitarian Today, the principles of Turkmen Neutrality principles and for unity”. This is one of the include peaceful regulation of the situation important steps in expanding the potential of in neighboring Afghanistan, assistance in the Neutrality to Turkmenistan. As a result, at the Turkmenistan’s Neutrality International Legal disarmament process in the region, resolving 50th General Assembly of the United Nations Status in the new historical context. In 2020 water and energy issues on the basis of General Assembly on December 12, 1995, Turkmenistan celebrates the 25th anniversary equality principles and ensuring the security, the Resolution “Permanent Neutrality of of our Neutrality, which has been twice сlearly reflected in the initiatives set forth Turkmenistan” was adopted. This Decree has recognized by the United Nations. Conferences, by Esteemed President. Because these areas become a historical first document adopted by exhibitions, brief meetings and online meetings are important indicators of the practical the United Nations on neutrality in the practice are held regularly not only in our country, but implementation of the political, economic and of international relations. also in several countries around the world on cultural aspects of Turkmen Neutrality that is this auspicious date. The Neutrality of Turkmenistan, which is in the Constitutional Law of Turkmenistan “On “recognized” by origin, “permanent” in form, Permanent Neutrality of Turkmenistan” which Tirkishmyrat Durdyev, Lecturer of the Institute and “positive” in meaning was unanimously was adopted on December 27, 1995. Therefore, of International Relations of the Ministry of ratified by the Historical Declaration and at the 66th session of the UN General Foreign Affairs of Turkmenistan Department unanimously recognized by 185 member Assembly in 2011, the slogan “Peace through of Practice and Theory of Journalism www.diplomaticfocus.org Diplomatic Focus December 2020 53 2020 Year - Turkmenistan - Home of Neutrality

POLICY OF NEUTRALITY – SYMBOL OF TRANQUILITY Any state, that have gained its independence basis. And at the meeting of the heads of completely differs from these countries and sovereignty, has to determine certain states and governments of member-states of by certain of its peculiarities. Neutrality of important objectives connected with its future Movement of Non-alignment held in October Turkmenistan, which has following features: destiny. Turkmenistan, having gained its state of that year in Cartagena there was accepted an “recognized” – by origin, “permanent” – by independence in the year of 1991, made a address by representatives of member-states of form, “favorable” – by meaning, is the status firm decision regarding the issue connected that organization to the Union of Nations about that was recognized by 185 member-states of with its foreign policy: strategy of the country’s granting the status of Permanent Neutrality the United Nations Organization, the highest foreign policy is to be carried out on the basis to Turkmenistan. As a result, on December authorized international structure, and secured of principles of favorable neutrality. Relying 12, 1995, at the 50th anniversary session of by historic Resolution. In its core, it contains on this factor, Turkmenistan, at the summit the General Assembly of the United Nations such high humane principles, to which Turkmen of the present Organization for Security and Organization there was adopted a Resolution people strictly adhered during millenniums, Cooperation in Europe held in 1992 in Helsinki, “About Permanent Neutrality of Turkmenistan”. as: peacefulness, mutual respect, humanity. for the first time declared that it chose the This Resolution went down in history as the first Thus, it is worth stating enormous importance principle of favorable neutrality as the basic document adopted by the Union of Nations of objectives resulting from the status of line of its foreign policy. As major peculiarities within the scope of international relations. Permanent Neutrality of Turkmenistan, which of Turkmen Neutrality, the following principles lie in strengthening of peace, arrangement The term “neutrality” has a very deep meaning. were shown: respect for territorial integrity and of sustainable development and universal During various periods of history, different types sovereignty of other states, noninterference wellbeing. of neutrality came into existence in connection in their internal affairs, rejection of the use of with such principles, as nonalignment to states Nowadays, world public unanimously recognizes force within the scope of intergovernmental at war, decision to remain on the sidelines, the fact that goals of “Turkmen example” of relations, giving priority in international affairs but to maintain friendly relations with them. neutrality completely meet objectives and to decisions of the United Nations Organization, Principles of neutrality used to be inalienable requirements of universal development, and enhancement of cooperation and neighborly part of policy that was pursued, during different that within the scope of work carried out relations with all countries. periods of history, by Switzerland, Belgium, in this direction, major priority is given to In the closing Record of the summit of Economic Luxemburg, Albania, Iceland, Austria, the principles of the United Nations Organization. Cooperation Organization held in 1995 in United States of America, Malta, Honduras, Negotiations on settlement of internal conflicts Islamabad, principle of neutrality applied by Cambodia, and Laos. Nowadays, Switzerland between Tajikistan and Afghanistan by means Turkmenistan in its foreign policy was for the and Austria continue to pursue this policy of political and diplomatic methods, held first time recognized at a regional level. At as well. Principle of neutrality of the above- in the middle 90’s of the last century in our this meeting, Turkmenistan made a special mentioned countries is secured by conclusion capital Ashgabat under the auspices of the Statement that it takes upon itself obligations of of the corresponding international treaty or law United Nations Organization, not only revealed a Permanently Neutral state on a constitutional in this sphere. However, Turkmen Neutrality conciliatory nature of Turkmen Neutrality,

54 Diplomatic Focus December 2020 www.diplomaticfocus.org 25th Anniversary of the Permanent Neutrality of Turkmenistan

but promoted significant enhancement of its realization of political, economic and cultural of creation of International Day of Neutrality. crucial role in strengthening of peace, security aspects of Turkmen Neutrality stipulated by Unanimous adoption of Resolution about and cooperation in Central Asia. Thus, with Constitutional Law of Turkmenistan “About declaring of December 12 the International Day the support of all states of Central Asia, the Permanent Neutrality of Turkmenistan” of Neutrality at the 71st session of the General United Nation’s Regional Center on Preventive adopted on December 27, 1995. Thus, the Assembly of the United Nations Organization Diplomacy in Central Asia proceeded to its work slogan “Peace by means of development” held on February 2, 2017, is a vivid evidence in December 2007, in Ashgabat city. Major goal suggested by our Esteemed President at the of the fact that proposal put forward by our of the Center is to render assistance to states 66th session of the General Assembly of the National Leader on this issue in the year of of Central Asia in creation of platform for United Nations Organization in the year of 2015 received wide support from international negotiations and exchange of views concerning 2011, also stipulates giving priority to major community. And this fact, on its own, determination of the new lines for prevention principle of Neutrality, that is benevolence in represents one of the crucial steps concerning of dangerous situations that may arise in the relations established in such strategic trends, enhancement of opportunities of international region of Central Asia as well as for enhancement as political issues, economics, energy sector, legal status of Neutrality of Turkmenistan in of fruitful relations within this region. Political ecology and humanitarian system. the new historic conditions. And adoption scientists confirm close interconnection of on September 12, 2019, on the initiative Policy of Neutrality of Turkmenistan, along neutrality and preventive diplomacy. In this of our Esteemed President, by the General with regular strengthening of call to universal connection, we may state with confidence that Assembly of the United Nations Organization of peace, also significantly widens the scope of Turkmen Neutrality has turned into an efficient Resolution under the title “2021 – International opportunity of creation of peace. Repeated tool of settlement of any objectives of present Year of Peace and Trust”, with the authorship adoption on June 3, 2015 at the 69th session time and establishment of new directions of 73 member-states of the UN, marked the of the General Assembly of the United within the scope of international cooperation. persistence of views of Neutral Turkmenistan Nations Organization with support of 193 concerning safeguarding of universal peace Nowadays, principles of Turkmen Neutrality member-states of the UN of Resolution “About and tranquility under complicated conditions of also find their distinct reflection inthe Permanent Neutrality of Turkmenistan” is present time, as well as our country’s readiness initiatives put forward by our National Leader another evidence of recognition by the world to make contribution to joining of efforts of the in the international arena on such issues, as public of Turkmen Neutrality and our state’s world public in this sphere. rendering assistance in work carried out in peaceful diplomacy. Our Esteemed President, in the region aimed at stabilization of situation course of his historic speech during the council Turkmenistan – the United Nations and disarmament in Afghanistan by means held on December 12, 2015, devoted to the Organization: effective direction of favorable of peaceful methods, solution of water and solemn celebration of the 20th anniversary of and fruitful cooperation. energy issues on the basis of principles of equal Turkmen Neutrality, with the view of significant The United Nations Organization, which with rights, assurance of environmental safety. Since enhancement of the role of neutrality in the the view of glorification of world peace, these trends represent important factors of international arena, put forward the initiative stability and security during the tense period www.diplomaticfocus.org Diplomatic Focus December 2020 55 2020 Year - Turkmenistan - Home of Neutrality

of the last century, reached opportunities of women and other subdivisions of Executive committee on the issues of the status of global world of the UN, unquestioningly fulfilled obligations refugees of the UN High Commissioner, the structure from the status of that it took upon itself and actively displayed UN Commission on narcotic drugs, the UN the Union of Nations, reliably itself as a reliable partner. Commission on population and development, maintains its status of the sole legally declared the UN Commission on social development, It is worth stating the fact that the UN’s organization of international significance the UN Commission on science and technology Regional Center on Preventive Diplomacy in nowadays as well. within the scope of Development Programme Central Asia is currently effectively working in and other subdivisions of the UN. In this connection, Turkmenistan also continues Ashgabat city, which renders close assistance to maintain on regular basis mutually for Turkmenistan in efficient realization of its In this connection, Turkmenistan, relying on beneficial and effective relations with this equitable and reasonable policy relying on reasonability of consideration of opportunity global organization. And unanimous support political and diplomatic relations in course of of holding the UN Council on financing of of the legal status of Permanent Neutrality of solution of objectives concerning stabilization development in the year of 2020, displays, as Turkmenistan given by member-states of this of the situation in Afghanistan and solution of a country acting under the influence of actions organization on December 12, 1995 witnesses any issues that may arise within this region. concerning development and strengthening the fact that this cooperation was based on of international cooperation on the issues of Foreground principles of Turkmenistan in the principles of mutual trust and equal rights sustainable and safe transportations, initiative its cooperation with the United Nations from the very beginning. Along with favorable of wide and multilateral consideration of Organization and its specialized subdivisions achievements of this highly humane policy, it is issues of arrangement of sustainable traffic completely meets the Global Agenda of the also reasonable to note the repeated support during the period of emergencies. Apart from Organization’s members until the year of 2030. of our state’s status of Permanent Neutrality. that, Turkmenistan also hosts on its territory These views and efficient actions, in their International council of ministers of developing Apart from that, as another vivid example turn, fully find their reflection in framework countries, not having the outlet to the sea, of effective mutual relations, it is also programme of cooperation on sustainable holding of which is stipulated in the year of appropriate to note the holding by delegation development for the period of 2021-2025 2021 with the view of working out of efficient of Turkmenistan of presentation of national signed between Turkmenistan and the United and mutually agreed efforts within the scope of survey on implementation of Objectives of Nations Organization on March 14 of current multilateral cooperation in this sphere. In this Sustainable Development for the Union of year in Ashgabat city. connection, with the view of arrangement of Nations in course of Political Forum held on a Turkmenistan, relying on its legal status of environmental safety, Turkmenistan, in course high level in the headquarters of the United Permanent Neutrality in the international of regular 75th session of the General Assembly Nations Organization on July 18, 2019. arena, actually proves enormous significance of the United Nations Organization, will Thus, entrusting our state the participation, of political and diplomatic tools as well as continue to harmonically realize the proposal as a vice-chairman, in the regular anniversary cultural diplomacy in course of settlement on establishment of the UN Special programme session of the General Assembly of the United of issues and conflicts arising within global for the Aral Sea basin put forward by President Nations Organization in the year of 2020 and international scope. Thus, Turkmenistan of Turkmenistan during the Summit on continuing under the slogan “Turkmenistan displayed initiative of working out the set of sustainable development “Rio + 20”. – motherland of Neutrality” devoted to norms on the use of principles of neutrality in Referring on its international obligations celebration of the 25-th anniversary of the course of arrangement of peace and security, concerning unquestioning ensuring of the status of Neutrality is another vivid evidence and as a result of this, in August of current year, human rights and freedoms, our country, within of significant strengthening of international on the basis of the United Nations Organization the scope of regular session, in cooperation authority of Turkmenistan and wide recognition there was established the Group of Friends of with the United Nations Organization, is also of our country in the international arena. Neutrality for the sake of World, security and planning to establish in Ashgabat city credentials development. As is generally known, our state has rich of representative of Regional Organization of favorable experience in this sphere, since it has In this connection, our state, with the view High Commissioner of the UN on human rights. been elected the deputy chairman of sessions of implementation of global strategies and In this connection, confirmation, in course of the General Assembly of the United Nations programmes, during the 75th session of the of the 75th session of the national plan of Organization already for the sixth time i.e. General Assembly of the United Nations actions aimed at ensuring of human rights for Turkmenistan, holding this honorable post, has Organization harmonically coordinates with the period of 2021-2025 in cooperation with participated in 58th, 62th, 64th, 68th and 71st the international agenda its international views specialized subdivisions of the United Nations sessions. concerning such directions, as coordination Organization, is also one of major issues of the of efforts of international community aimed agenda. Besides, our state, having joined the at struggle against pandemic, issues of membership ofEconomic and Social Council of All of the abovementioned is considered to international policy, peace and security, the UN, the UN Commission on population and be important components of foreground sustainable development, international development, European Economic Commission views of Turkmenistan during the 75th humanitarian cooperation. In this connection, of the UN and bureau of committee on session of the General Assembly of the United Turkmenistan is going to enjoy opportunities sustainable energy of European Economic Nations Organization and it vividly witnesses and privileges of its vice-chairmanship at Commission, Special programme of the UN for the fact that our state independently and the 75th session of the General Assembly of economies of Central Asian countries, the UN unquestioningly fulfills and comprehensively the United Nations Organization as well as commission on narcotic drugs, Programmes of relies on the global agenda. opportunities resulting from its membership Executive committee on the issues of refugees in Economic and Social Council of the UN Ayjan Omarova, Instructor of Institute of of the UN High Commissioner, Executive (ECOSOC), Council on Trade and Development International Relations of Ministry of Foreign Committee of the UN subdivision on the issues of United Nations Conference on Trade Affairs of Turkmenistan of gender equality, widening of rights and and Development (UNCTAD), Programme

56 Diplomatic Focus December 2020 www.diplomaticfocus.org 25th Anniversary of the Permanent Neutrality of Turkmenistan

www.diplomaticfocus.org Diplomatic Focus December 2020 57 2020 Year - Turkmenistan - Home of Neutrality

NEUTRALITY OF TURKMENISTAN: HISTORICAL SIGNIFICANCE AND LEGAL BASIS

Thanks to the far-sighted and constructive in 1815 based on the Treaty of Paris. Another After independence, Turkmenistan chose a political course of our esteemed President, way of acquiring the status of neutrality is the foreign policy aimed at good-neighbourly Turkmenistan has achieved great success in its adoption of the Constitutional Law, for instance relations, peace, mutually beneficial domestic and foreign policies. Achievements in the Republic of Austria. In Turkmenistan’s cooperation and humanism. The first intentions domestic policy include democratic principles case, the status of permanent neutrality was to implement the neutral foreign policy were such as promotion of democracy as well as recognized by the United Nations. announced at the meeting of the Conference economic development. Achievements in for Security and Cooperation in Europe held in In this regard, the acquisition of the legal status foreign policy are related to the legal status of Helsinki on July 10, 1992. of neutrality by Turkmenistan is in the form of permanent neutrality. innovation for the institute of neutrality. To achieve the legal status of neutrality, the In the past at different times several states got government of Turkmenistan conducted There are some peculiarities of the neutrality of the status of neutrality. Some of them remained effective negotiations with a range of Turkmenistan: faithful to their status, being committed to foreign countries and leading international their obligations. Yet, over time some countries by origin – recognized. The UN General organizations. refused their legal status for various reasons. Assembly adopted resolutions on the In addition, the necessary legislative work for permanent neutrality of Turkmenistan on In international law neutrality is defined as the legal status of neutrality was carried out December 12, 1995 and on June 3, 2015; the legal status which recognizes the state’s at the national level. On March 16, 1995, the obligation to refrain from any kind of war as by nature – permanent, i.e. it is not limited Parliament of Turkmenistan adopted a decree well as from joining any military alliances and by time, it is in effect both in war time and “On the approval of the policy of the permanent blocs that may involve in military clashes, peace time; positive neutrality of Turkmenistan”, which except the state’s self-defence against armed states “To approve the principle of permanent by content – positive. This means that the attack. Article 51 of the UN Charter specifies neutrality as a basis for its foreign policy, neutral policy of the country is a policy of that every state has the full right to defence. which fully meets the interests of the state, action to maintain peace and stability and the national, historical and geographical Some states acquired this status on the basis develop friendly relations and cooperation peculiarities and mentality of the Turkmen of treaties. As an example, we can refer to the among states. people”. neutrality of Switzerland. It was recognized

58 Diplomatic Focus December 2020 www.diplomaticfocus.org 25th Anniversary of the Permanent Neutrality of Turkmenistan

responsibly fulfils its international obligations. This can be exemplified by negotiations for the peaceful settlement of the inter-Tajik conflicts and the restoration of peace in neighbour country – Afghanistan. Another confirmation of the essential peacekeeping role of the Turkmen neutrality in the region is the opening of the UN Regional Centre for Preventive Diplomacy for Central Asia in Ashgabat in 2007. Since its establishment Turkmenistan has been effectively cooperating with it, contributing to the strengthening of the preventive direction of the country’s foreign policy and diplomacy. The “Foreign Policy Concept of Turkmenistan for 2013-2017” states that Turkmenistan’s foreign policy will be based on the legal status of neutrality and recognizes the United Nations as its main strategic partner. The sessions of the UN General Assembly provide ample opportunities for the presentation of the humane and constructive policy of our state pursued by the National Leader. In the Prosperous Epoch of the Powerful State, a range of initiatives of local, regional and global importance were announced at the UN sessions. The effectiveness of Turkmenistan’s permanent neutrality is also evidenced by the adoption, at the 71st session of the UN General Assembly, of the Resolution proclaiming December 12 as International Day of Neutrality. In addition, at the initiative of the president of Turkmenistan, the UN General Assembly adopted another Resolution proclaiming the year 2021 “International Year of Peace and Trust”, In this regard, the meeting of the Organization community voted for the adoption of the September 2019. of Economic Cooperation held in March in resolution at the General Assembly session. 1995 supported the initiative of Turkmenistan As known, this year Turkmenistan marks the After the recognition of permanent neutrality on the status of permanent neutrality. Then 25th anniversary of the recognition of the of our state at the world level, it was fixed in the proposal was unanimously supported by legal status of the neutrality of Turkmenistan a number of legislative acts of the country the Non-Aligned Movement, which stands by the world community. On the occasion adopted on December 27, 1995. First of all, for peace in the world and opposes military of this significant event the year 2020 was it should be noted that relevant additions clashes. proclaimed as “Turkmenistan is the Homeland have been introduced into the Constitution of Neutrality”. Moreover, since the beginning The historic 50th session of the UN General of Turkmenistan. For instance, the norms of of this year, on the eve of the 25th anniversary Assembly held in 1995 was written in the the Resolution are reflected in Article 2of of permanent neutrality of Turkmenistan, annals of the history of Turkmenistan. A the Constitution of Turkmenistan. Moreover, large-scale celebrations and events have been special resolution 50/80A on the “Permanent the Constitutional Law “On the permanent held at the national and international level Neutrality of Turkmenistan” was adopted at neutrality of Turkmenistan” was adopted. This and in December our country is to hold an this anniversary session with the unanimous legislative act consists of 12 articles, which international conference devoted to this event. support of all UN member states. define the political, economic and humanitarian areas of the legal status of permanent neutrality. In general, the foreign policy pursued by the This historic resolution calls the member states It also sets forth international obligations President of Turkmenistan based on the legal of the United Nations to respect and support undertaken by our country. status of neutrality fully meets the national this status of Turkmenistan and to respect interests and the neutrality policy turned into its independence, sovereignty and territorial After 20 year experience of the neutrality of an effective tool for mutual understanding and integrity. The adoption of this historic resolution Turkmenistan, it was reconfirmed by another cooperation among peoples. of the UN General Assembly means recognition resolution of the UN General Assembly at the by the world community of Turkmenistan as 69th session on June 3, 2015. 47 states were co- Maya Orazova, Institute of International a neutral state. And further, such a document authors of the document. Relations of the MFA of Turkmenistan, was adopted for the first time in the activities Department of World Languages, Senior Our country, steadily following the principles of the UN. 185 member states of the world Lecturer of the legal status of permanent neutrality, www.diplomaticfocus.org Diplomatic FocusDecember 202059 2020 Year - Turkmenistan - Home of Neutrality

NEUTRALITY OF TURKMENISTAN AS AN EFFECTIVE INSTRUMENT OF STRENGTHENING INTERNATIONAL PEACE During the twenty-five years of its history, policy? As Our Esteemed President wrote in his 1995 Turkmenistan received the support of 185 permanent neutrality status of Turkmenistan book “Music of Peace, Music of Friendship and states in the United Nations General Assembly evolved into an effective instrument of building Brotherhood”, foreign policy of a country can and the historic document was adopted on international peace. The phenomenon of affect the very existence of a state. Based on the “Permanent Neutrality of Turkmenistan”. Turkmen neutrality is studied by scholars of analysis of history and culture of Turkmenistan, During the early days of neutrality Turkmenistan international relations, analyzed by policy- neutrality was chosen as the country’s foreign actively contributed to the resolution of the makers, and celebrated by the international policy. Therefore, the constructive and conflict in Afghanistan and Tajikistan. In 2015 we community in academic institutions, think- transparent foreign policy agenda of our country celebrated the 20th anniversary of our neutrality tanks, and diplomacy centers. After twenty-five found strong support in the world. status and the United Nations General Assembly years, the permanent character of Turkmen reaffirmed its support for our choice. In 2017 An important strength of Turkmenistan’s neutrality became even more salient in the eyes the United Nations proclaimed 12 December neutral foreign policy is its openness to the of international observers. Today the neutrality as International Day of Neutrality. And in 2020 world. If neutrality was to have positive impact of Turkmenistan should be analyzed as a part Turkmenistan proudly celebrates the 25th on international relations, it had to be widely of the history of not only one country, but the anniversary of its permanent neutrality. accepted and recognized by the international entire world. In today’s globalized world where community. Our country understood that an It is important to emphasize that Turkmen new social, economic and environmental effective neutral policy cannot remain merely neutrality is the first neutrality status recognized challenges need to be addressed by international as a set of declarations and statements. Instead by the United Nations General Assembly in community jointly, Turkmenistan’s positive it must be based on shared values of peaceful, history. However, efforts of Turkmenistan as a neutrality demonstrated its potential to serve friendly, and mutually-beneficial relations neutral country are by no means limited to the the common interests of humanity. between countries. Therefore, the government United Nations platform. Turkmenistan actively Achievements of Turkmenistan in this regard of Turkmenistan from the very first days of participates in international organizations call for a careful analysis of the history of our independence aimed to explain its foreign policy and developing bilateral and multilateral permanent neutrality status. The successful choice in international forums. The first official relations. In international organizations continuation of the national foreign policy in declaration of Turkmenistan on its neutrality such as the Organization for Security and the spirit of 1995 and 2015 resolutions of the policy was made in the 1992 Helsinki summit Cooperation in Europe, the Commonwealth of United Nations General Assembly will depend of the Conference on Security and Cooperation Independent States, the Economic Cooperation on understanding the reasons for the positive in Europe. In 1995 in the Islamabad summit Organization, and the Non-Aligned Movement impact of Turkmenistan in international affairs. of the Economic Cooperation Organization Turkmenistan is well-known as an active and The permanent neutrality of Turkmenistan welcomed the initiative of Turkmenistan to constructive partner. Through these platforms was declared in peace time, not as a response declare permanent neutrality. In October of Turkmenistan promotes principles of friendship to an ongoing military conflict. It was a free 1995, Turkmenistan joined the Non-Aligned and cooperation and actively spreads the idea choice of people of Turkmenistan. When our Movement and the members of the organization of denuclearization and demilitarization in country declared its independence in 1991 it expressed their support in the Cartagena international politics. The establishment of the faced the question: What should be our foreign declaration of the organization. On 12 December, United Nations Regional Centre for Preventive

60 Diplomatic Focus December 2020 www.diplomaticfocus.org 25th Anniversary of the Permanent Neutrality of Turkmenistan

Diplomacy in 2007 in Ashgabat became a symbol harnesses the potential of digital technologies Studies in Pakistan became of the trust of our neighbors and international to make government services available in both venues for engaging organizations. Furthermore, Turkmenistan’s central and remote regions of our country with academic discussions election to prestigious positions in international reduced carbon footprint. For instance, in the regarding the theory and organizations represents a positive evaluation of coming years, in the northern part of Ashgabat a practice of neutrality in international relations. our country’s international efforts. An important new city-in-the-city will be created with high-rise International delegations from research example for that was the election of our country residential buildings, administrative and social institutions such as the Royal United Services to the United Nations Economic and Social facilities, and modern infrastructure. During Institute of the United Kingdom, SOAS University Council (ECOSOC) for the period 2019-2021. the presentation of the project our Esteemed of London, University of Cambridge, the National President drew attention to the formation of Institute for Defense Studies of Japan, the Another source of strength of Turkmenistan’s a green environment in the future city, use of Center for Research and Intercommunication neutrality is its constitutional foundation. In the information and communication technologies, Knowledge of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia preamble of the Constitution of Turkmenistan our smart technologies, and alternative energy visited Turkmenistan to gain more knowledge nation vows to strengthen the internationally- sources. The human resources basis of such about the neutral foreign policy of our country. recognized legal status of permanent neutrality. national projects is continuously strengthened Turkmenistan’s development of the concept Article 2 of the constitution declares that the as seen in the examples of recently-established of neutrality is further strengthened by close permanent neutrality of Turkmenistan is the higher education institutions such as the collaboration with other neutral states such as foundation of its domestic and foreign policies. International University for the Humanities and Austria and Switzerland. As neutral countries Moreover, Article 9 lists the guiding principles Development, the University of Engineering they cooperate in the context of international of the national foreign policy: permanent Technologies of Turkmenistan named after Oguz organizations to promote neutrality policy in the neutrality, non-interference in the internal affairs Khan, and Institute of Telecommunications and world and support Turkmenistan’s initiative to of foreign countries, abstention from the use of Informatics of Turkmenistan. establish the Group of Friends of Neutrality for force and membership in the military alliances, Peace and Security in the United Nations. aiding the development of peaceful, friendly The positive impact of neutrality on international and mutually-beneficial relations with states of development is also acknowledged by our The future of Turkmenistan’s neutrality policy the region and the world. The article underlines partners worldwide. The constructive character looks bright because it is based on a thorough that Turkmenistan assigns priority to generally- of Turkmen neutrality turns it into an instrument understanding of our nation’s peaceful recognized rules of international law. In of developing cooperation and peaceful relations aspirations and a rigorous analysis of current addition, Turkmenistan’s neutrality is supported between countries. Turkmenistan proposes world affairs. In response to the need for stronger by the Constitutional Law on the Permanent collaborative solutions to address global collaboration among countries, our country will Neutrality of Turkmenistan adopted in 1995. challenges and promoting peace and prosperity. continue to strengthen the culture of peace While these documents affirm the permanent Hosting large-scale international events, and trust around the world. In September of character of the policy, they also serve as visions contests, festivals, and conferences is one of the 2019, in the United Nations General Assembly of a more peaceful and prosperous world. The instruments used by our country. For example, in together with 72 countries Turkmenistan strengthening of trust between countries of the 2017 Turkmenistan hosted the 5th Asian Indoor coauthored the resolution “International Year world depends on their abilities to commit to and Martial Arts Games in Ashgabat. In addition of Peace and Trust, 2021” which underlined the principles described in these documents. to spreading the culture of peace, Turkmenistan that the International Year constitutes a means Turkmenistan considers the United Nations the pays attention to developing cooperation of mobilizing international efforts to promote central pillar of the international security and in the fields of transportation, economic peace and trust among nations on the basis development architecture. Consequently, it is development, and water diplomacy. In recent of political dialogue, mutual understanding no coincidence that Turkmenistan enacts the years Turkmenistan chaired in international and cooperation in order to build sustainable shared peace-oriented principles of the United organizations such as International Fund for peace, solidarity and harmony. Turkmenistan Nations Charter in the national legislation. Saving the Aral Sea, the International Energy believes that neutrality can serve as a powerful Thereby, our country sets an example for all Charter, and the Commonwealth of Independent instrument of conflict resolution in international countries of the world by backing up its words States. Turkmenistan has bold initiatives in many arena and proposes to develop a United Nations with deeds starting the realization from its own areas of development. For example the First Code of Practice on the effective use of the legislation. Global Conference on Sustainable Transport of principles of neutrality, and to organize a broad the United Nations was convened in Ashgabat UN-based multilateral dialogue on the practical The results of work carried out by Turkmenistan in 2016 for the first time in history. The Final application of the principles of neutrality in under the leadership of our Esteemed President document of the First Caspian Economic Forum prevention of conflicts. All of these initiatives are clear. They demonstrate that neutrality held in 2019 was adopted as the document of define the spirit of the events organized and socio-economic development can go the 73rd session of the United Nations General throughout the year of “Turkmenistan – Home together by mutually reinforcing each other. Assembly. of Neutrality”. In this regard, Turkmenistan is In the development field, Turkmenistan is looking forward to the forthcoming high-level implementing national programs to achieve the Development of neutrality as a concept international conference on “Policy of Neutrality 17 Sustainable Development Goals. In July 2019, in international relations and a norm of and its importance in ensuring international during the United Nations High-Level Political international law is an important direction peace, security and sustainable development” Forum, Turkmenistan presented its Voluntary of Turkmenistan’s foreign policy. For that on December 12th in Ashgabat which will serve National Review on the implementation of purpose Turkmenistan organizes conferences as a productive platform for the international the Sustainable Development Goals. Periodic dedicated to the foreign policy and diplomacy community to discuss the potential of neutrality consultation visits of the World Bank and the of Turkmenistan in academic institutions of policy as an effective instrument of international International Monetary Fund delegations partner countries. Conferences co-organized in peace. confirm that the economy of Turkmenistan is recent years by ADA University of Azerbaijan, developing sustainably, at an average annual GDP Tokyo University of Foreign Studies, Diplomatic Esen Aydogdyev, Rector of the International growth rate of 6%. Our country recognizes the Institute of Romania, Diplomatic Academy University for the Humanities and Development urgency of transition to a greener economy and of Vienna, Institute of Peace and Diplomatic www.diplomaticfocus.org Diplomatic Focus December 2020 61 2020 Year - Turkmenistan - Home of Neutrality

62 Diplomatic Focus December 2020 www.diplomaticfocus.org 25th Anniversary of the Permanent Neutrality of Turkmenistan

www.diplomaticfocus.org Diplomatic Focus December 2020 63 2020 Year - Turkmenistan - Home of Neutrality THE ROLE OF PERMANENT NEUTRALITY IN THE DEVELOPMENT OF EDUCATION SYSTEM IN TURKMENISTAN “Neutrality of Turkmenistan – our sacred prosperity, an unshakable meaning of our life, our main aim” President of Turkmenistan Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov

“Neutrality of Turkmenistan – our sacred Recognition of December 12 as the International In the Epoch of Might and Happiness changes prosperity, an unshakable meaning of our Day of Neutrality was adopted unanimously. in the education system are the most important life, our main aim”. President of Turkmenistan “The new Resolution reflects crucial essence branch of Turkmenistan’s policy and it advances Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov of peace- making, constructing experience under the leadership of our Esteemed President. accumulated by our country for more than two The education system of Turkmenistan develops Our Motherland Turkmenistan has stepped decades. During these years, the Neutrality of on international level. Modern technologies towards the 25th anniversary of its permanent Turkmenistan established a reputation of an are actively introduced into educational system Neutrality. During the previous years, innovative effective mechanism of entering into fruitful and the work on preparing young generation programme led to develop our country cooperation, strengthening friendly, good as well-educated specialists on information comprehensively, large-scale transformations neighborly relations among states and nations”. technologies is actively carried out. Our country have been carried out successively. Turkmen Turkmenistan is aimed at being on high level is country decisively takes position among the By establishing foreign economic and social such spheres as education, science, culture, developed countries of the world. As a result of relations demands taking into consideration modern technologies and economy. wise and perfect foresight internal and external the changes taking place in the world. policy guided by our Esteemed President the Confidently entering into the system of modern Our Esteemed President’s Decree from honor of Turkmen country improves. international relations, our country is in the March, 1 – 2013 “On the improvement of of movement of establishing wide diplomatic education system in Turkmenistan” and the The idea about the neutral state for relations with the countries of the world and Decision on the secondary education issues Turkmenistan emerged in the first years of actively developing constructive cooperation in Turkmenistan resulted in the prolongation independence. After gaining independence, with the UN, the European Union, Organization of secondary education up to 12 years. Our our country has proclaimed “Open Doors of Islamic Cooperation and other major Honorable President continuously stressed the Policy” in its indoor and outdoor policy. Within international organizations. importance of using multimedia technologies in the framework of “Open Doors” policy, large – the education system of our country. scale projects have been carried out to promote In recent years, the education system of world the prestige of our county in the international has been developing through globalization All schools in our country have been equipped arena. On the strength of national traditions and internationalization of national education with modern computers, multimedia and geopolitical specifics of Turkmenistan, system. Bringing the higher educational blackboards and all technical facilities to the question of acquiring status of permanent establishments to the level of the world make study easier and useful. Children at neutrality arose in that time as objective and standards is the main task of our times. The their six years can enter the school according essential necessity. tasks of transition to more new methods of to the Conception of twelve-year education education, using the gained world experience at schools. Twelve-year secondary schools Neutrality is a historical choice of the people and scientific approaches in practical life, program is divided into the following levels and of Turkmenistan and the will of the people is creation of high technological educational categories: 1st -4th forms of primary education; its guarantee. “On December 12, 1995, the UN institutions are being realized more actively. 5th-10th forms of basic secondary education; General Assembly adopted a special Resolution 11th- 12th forms of high school education on “Permanent Neutrality of Turkmenistan” – Since the first days of the presidency of our (The education, science, healthcare and sports an unprecedented document, which provided esteemed President has defined raising the spheres of Turkmenistan, 2020). a unique international and legal status for our system of education to the level of the world country as the first in the world practice”. standards and changing with rates all spheres The Concept of Developing Digital Education of the public life as one of the main trends. System is also aimed at the updating of this The adoption of this resolution was an sphere, which provides all its levels with an important milestone for the Turkmen people In this connection and taking into consideration electronic information base. and the state, making the wise and farsighted the historical-social conditions of the third foreign policy, strategy, triumphant brilliant idea millennium, a large scale tasks to be fulfilled Along with these concepts “About concept of a reality and it was clear evidence of the care for flourishing of our country, for prosperous improving the teaching of foreign languages” about welfare of the people of Turkmenistan. life of our people. Our Esteemed President gave is approved. The President of Turkmenistan impetus to modern reforms in the education signed the Resolution approving the Concept of At the 71st Session of the UN General Assembly system. improving the teaching of foreign languages, as held on February 2, 2017, the Resolution on

64 Diplomatic Focus December 2020 www.diplomaticfocus.org 25th Anniversary of the Permanent Neutrality of Turkmenistan well as plan of actions for its implementation. international organizations and foundations has and incorporating the At the first stage, in 2018, it is planned to significantly expanded. Introducing the world latest developments and master the world experience in the field of standards into educational process, our country trends into it ensures the methodological support, improvement of increase the collaboration in humanitarian development of the country state standards, relevant curricula and training sphere with UN, European Union. Joint work in all its spheres. Therefore, advancing national programs. is carried out with competent organizations system of education remains major focus of our working in Turkmenistan like UNICEF, UNFPA, esteemed President. At the second stage, in 2019-2020, the system UNDPA and UNESCO. Our state positions itself of training and retraining of teachers, the Our permanent Neutrality is the one of the in the world as one of the strong world powers educational and methodological base in this main sources of our country in the field of that harmonically develops in all directions. area will be improved and monitoring will be indoor and outdoor policy. As our esteemed New historical milestone of comprehensive launched to control the effectiveness of the President mentioned in his book that: “Along progress of the country requires steadfast implementation of this Concept. with independence, neutrality is a basis improvement of educational system together and support of all our achievements”. All At the third stage, in 2021-2024, it is planned to with other spheres of the economy. implementations and transformations have create a continuous consistent and interrelated A number of collaborative works are being been carried out within the framework of system of teaching foreign languages. All this carried out for levering the national education permanent Neutrality. The motto of this requires the development of new methods sector to the international standards. Within year was proclaimed as the “Turkmenistan- of training, the training of highly qualified international education standards, every Homeland of Neutrality” and it is not by chance teaching staff. The development of this country uses different approaches in order that our country has proclaimed it is the reason concept, which will ensure more effective to integrate into international education this year our Independent and Permanent development of foreign languages, will allow standards. On June 15, 2016, the Government Neutral Turkmenistan will be celebrating 25th graduates of educational institutions to quickly of Turkmenistan adopted the policy ensuring years anniversary of its permanent Neutrality. join the renewed international environment of a quality education and learning environment. Turkmenistan. We are young specialists of our country; it is The quality education policy was developed by our main duty to make aware young generation In Turkmenistan higher and secondary the Ministry of Education with the technical about the implementations, transformations educational system is improved at a great pace, support from United Nations International which are being carried out in the independent secondary, and higher educational institutions Children’s Emergency Fund (UNICEF). neutral Turkmenistan. Moreover, instructor train highly qualified specialists in all branches The involvement of the United Nations (UN) and educators of our country should discuss of economy. In pre-school and school agencies (UNICEF, United Nations Environment permanent neutrality of Turkmenistan and institutions much attention is paid to learning Program (UNEP) and European Civil Protection historical facts about permanent neutrality the world’s advanced experience, generalizing and Humanitarian Aid Operations (ECHO) for and as well as internal changes of independent in and realizing it into practice (The education, lifelong learning in Turkmenistan, the National Turkmenistan. science, healthcare and sports spheres of Institute of Education, Methodological Centers Turkmenistan, 2020). Many educational institutions of our country of higher educational institutions (HEI). A group have established close partnerships with Following these regulations and of international experts from Canada, Russia dozens of foreign educational institutions. The implementations aimed at improving the and Germany, and other countries, shared best Turkmen State Pedagogical Institute named quality of education system in Turkmenistan, practices with pediatricians, psychologists, after Seyitnazar Seydi has also established many initiatives and efforts have been carried neuropathologists, speech therapists, pre- close partnership with foreign educational out under guidance of ministries, administrative school teachers, and education specialists. institutions. The examples of successfully branch institutions on theoretical and practical Choreklieva, Sarieva & Nazarova, (2017) reflect continuing fruitful contacts are: Academic basis. on the programs conducted outside Bachelor’s Agreement and Cooperation between the and Master’s Degree Structure: Adapting new reforms into the national Brest State University named after A.S.Pushkin education sector of Turkmenistan, using “…It has become the common practice to hold (Belarus, Brest city), Academic Agreement best world practices, is vital importance for workshops, training sessions, lectures and and Cooperation between the Tashkent State maintaining sustainable development of the other forms of joint activities, which involve Pedagogical University named after Nizami country. The strategies in developing the in the process educational institutions of (Uzbekistan, Tashkent city) and as well as education sector are reflected in the “National Turkmenistan and a number of countries of the Memorandum of Understanding between Program of Social and Economic Development world. Vivid evidence for fruitful international the Turkmen State Pedagogical Institute of Turkmenistan for the period of 2011-2030”, contacts of Turkmen education professionals named after Seyitnazar Seydi and Volgograd which identifies the need “to establish an is their contribution to the implementation State Socio-Pedagogical University. Having education system to comparable to developed of various projects in the framework of established close partnerships with prestigious countries, and to increase the quality of international educational programs, such as educational and scientific centers of Europe, education as a condition for Turkmenistan’s Tempus, Erasmus Mundus, Erasmus+, and Asia and America, Turkmenistan has achieved development and competitiveness”. In others”. considerable growth in the number of its Turkmenistan, all educational establishments students in these regions. Our Honorable President pays a great deal are well equipped to prepare young generations of attention to the education system of the Begmuhammet Begseyidov, Candidate of for the complex needs of today’s world. country and aims to continuously upgrade it Philosophy, Senior lecturer of social science Turkmenistan steadily improves scientific, to the newest level. He emphasizes: “The 21st department Pedagogical institute of Turkmen technical, innovative and technology century dictates necessity to keep pace with state named after Seyitnazar Seydi cooperation with leading foreign organizations world progress, advanced achievements of Ogulshat Hudayberenova, Lecturer of social and centers. Nowadays, cooperation with major science and education, demands meeting new science department scientific and educational centers of the world, realities”. Improving national education sector www.diplomaticfocus.org Diplomatic Focus December 2020 65 2020 Year - Turkmenistan - Home of Neutrality

Permanent Neutrality - the mainstay of the energy industry Every day, every year of independent neutral in Ahal, Lebap and Mary provinces were built basis of coordinated management with four Turkmenistan is filled with unforgettable for and commissioned in the provinces of our gas turbines and two steam turbines prepared the Turkmen people major events, full of country. by General Electric Company. Electric power great transformations. This year has become produced by means of open distribution Taking into account the demand of the world a year of peace, unity, patriotism, economic systems with 220 kV and 500 kV is supplied to market for energy resources, Turkmenistan is and spiritual revival, diligence, friendship and the unified electric system of Turkmenistan. transforming and developing the electric power brotherhood, humanity. Very valuable and These open distribution systems are installed system, in this regard, our country adopted countless hard work of our Dear President by means of products of world famous the “Program of energy saving for 2018-2024”. in the development of health care, sports companies. On the territory of modern As well as modern and international projects and tourism, science and education, in power plants video surveillance equipment being carried out in the energy sector of our implementing the achievements of science is installed, and this in turn helps to carry out country, determine the opportunities for the and technology, in training harmoniously technical control of complex equipment and future energy power of Turkmenistan. developed, hardworking professionals, in the their correct use. in-depth study and proclamation of the world It is important to note that in 2018, a new This station is among the newest engineering spiritual and cultural heritage. power plant with a combined cycle gas turbine developments. Modernity, economic efficiency was built and commissioned within the Mary In accordance with the “Concept of the and environmental safety of this facility is State Power Plant, which operates on the Electric Power Industry of Turkmenistan for confirmed by licenses of the Federal Institute basis of coordinated management and has 2013-2020”, gas turbine power plants, power of Technology “Max Plank” Switzerland, the a capacity of 1574 MW. This power plant of transmission networks, several power plants American Foundation for Healthy Ecology. combined cycle gas turbine operates on the

66 Diplomatic Focus December 2020 www.diplomaticfocus.org 25th Anniversary of the Permanent Neutrality of Turkmenistan

The power plant’s efficiency factor is 57%, The adopted program of electric power and representatives of the which is 22% higher than in facilities operating industry of Turkmenistan for development of Turkmen-Afghan people, under simple management. Commissioning of industry of our country plays a big role. The a protocol of meeting of this modern facility envisages annual saving power industry is the power that determines the heads of the Ministry of of 1 billion 100 million m3 of natural gas. In the development of our society. The oil and Energy of Turkmenistan and the Ministry of addition, the consumption of natural gas gas, energy industry is one of the preferred Energy and Water Resources of the Islamic burned as fuel will be significantly reduced and areas of our country, and it belongs to the Republic of Afghanistan was signed. harmful waste discharged into the atmosphere industries that bring great profit. Provided The protocol outlined the decision to send will be reduced by 2-3 times. for the industries in accordance with modern electric power from Turkmenistan for 2018- requirements give grounds to develop through In accordance with the “Program of the 2027 and increase the amount of exported diversification. President of Turkmenistan of social economic power in these years. The signing of this development of the country for 2018-2024” It creates opportunities to develop and document is of great importance for the whole in the next 7 years, the amount of electricity improve the energy industry in the future. region. And also the Agreement on the project produced in the country is planned to 33 Such works as export of electric energy, of Turkmenistan-Afghanistan-Pakistan power billion kilowatt hours. stable supply of electric energy to consumers transmission lines network was signed. increase the economic power of our industry. In order to increase the energy resources This document defines the volume of produced, which make up a significant part The following works have been carried out electricity supplied to Afghanistan through the of our exports, as a result of the construction to increase the reliable power supply of our new transmission line network. According to of several large industry facilities based on country and the volume of export of our this, 300 MW (600 MW in total) of electricity foreign investments, the directions of the country’s electricity abroad: will be sent to Herat and Kandahar. energy strategy are being expanded. Within - “Kerki” substation with the voltage of 500 kV Advance solution of these tasks will give an the framework of multilateral global and was built and commissioned; opportunity to comprehensively industrialize international forums on stable provision of our country, increase the production volume energy resources held in recent years, energy - reconstruction of Vatan and Farab 220 kV of the country, which is able to compete in the security issues have become very topical. substations; international market, strengthen the economic And also when in 2017 Turkmenistan chaired - construction of 500 kV power transmission capacity of Turkmenistan, and improve the the Energy Charter Conference, the general lines from Mary State Power Plant to Kerki level of public amenities. principles and main directions of international substation; cooperation in the energy sector were settled. The head of the state noted that further - construction of a high-voltage 500kV air improvement of the energy sector of our As the esteemed President notes: “The electrical line from the Kerki substation to the country and diversification on the way of energy sector of Turkmenistan with the help Islamic Republic of Afghanistan border; production innovation is of great importance. of projects on innovative basis has not only domestic consumers, but can also provide - reconstruction of open distributor 500kV of As the dear President notes, Turkmenistan a stable supply of electricity to the foreign Mary State Power Plant. is not limited to ensuring a harmoniously market”. developing economy in this area, but is In the future, the construction of high- trying to become one of the main states And this will give an opportunity to successfully voltage power transmission lines and electric exporting electric energy in the region. implement the program on industrialization of substations will be continued, and this will Capital improvement works are carried out the country; will raise the development of our provide an opportunity for power losses in the industry, a powerful foundation for the Motherland to a new level”. Guided by these during shipment. development of production and social sphere words of the Hero Arkadag, Turkmenistan This will provide an opportunity to insure all is being created. aims to develop by diversifying the directions parts of the electric sphere of Turkmenistan. of electric energy supply and increase their With the support of the Dear President, large- For many years, Turkmenistan has been volumes. scale projects are being implemented, power comprehensively assisting the brotherly transmission networks are being conducted, As the Leader of the Nation notes, the foreign Afghan people. Proof of this is the construction substations are being built, and power supply policy of our country is based on peacefulness of the Ymamnazar-Andhoy and Serhetabat- networks of the capital and other cities of our and humanity. All conditions have been created Herat power lines. These networks have country are being reconstructed. for development through diversification of all become an important part of the neighboring branches of national economy and investment. country’s energy structure. The Leader of the Nation focuses on all issues of high importance for energy cooperation and One of the main objectives of this industry is In summer 2018 the Rabatkashan-Kalainau notes that diversification of energy flow is the to increase processing of fuel raw materials, power transmission network with the capacity most important strategic direction. Increasing industrial development of new fields, including of 100MW per hour was put into operation. power transmission routes is an integral part the main goal to develop the Turkmen part At the same time, one branch of Turkmen of energy policy. of the Caspian Sea and gas field “Galkynysh”, electricity was opened to send Turkmen another goal of this industry is to use 3D electricity to northern Afghanistan. As part of Shanazar Allakulyyev, Lecturer of the modeling method. Creation of a multilateral this, our specialists built several power supply Department of power plants of State Energy gas pipeline system as well as development facilities, including a power plant and a 112 Institute of Turkmenistan. through diversification of gas pipeline transit kilometer-long power line. Аyjemal Muhammedova, Lecturer of the through the continents and Asia provides new As we all know within the framework of Department of power plants of State Energy opportunities for hydrocarbons transportation Turkmenistan-Afghanistan cooperation, with Institute of Turkmenistan. to the international market. the participation of the esteemed President www.diplomaticfocus.org Diplomatic Focus December 2020 67 2020 Year - Turkmenistan - Home of Neutrality FOREVER NEUTRALITY– IS THE FOUNDATION OF LASTING PEACE

In the prosperous period of the sovereign centuries of peace, unity and solidarity - their with the world powers and become one of state, the great deeds carried out under the dreams have come true at the end of the last the most powerful states in the world. It is wise leadership of our esteemed President, century. On December 12, 1995, the United worth noting that the work of our esteemed the glorious events of which are spread all over Nations, a world-renowned international President in enhancing the prestige of our the world, are written in golden letters in the organization, awarded the status of Permanent state and spreading his glory to the world is of glorious history of our dear people. It should Neutrality to Independent Turkmenistan with great importance. be noted that the twenty-fifth anniversary of the unanimous support of 185 countries. In particular, it can be said that as a result our permanent Neutrality will be one of the Recognition of the Permanent Neutrality of of the prudent and prudent policy of the most memorable events in the glorious history Turkmenistan by the United Nations General President of Turkmenistan, the good relations of our Motherland. Assembly in the 2015 Year of Neutrality and and mutually beneficial cooperation of the Today, our courageous people, who put the Peace, marked the 20th anniversary of the state of Turkmenistan with the world countries country’s well-being and unity above all else, Permanent Neutrality of our Neutrality, was a have reached a new high level in recent years are confidently moving forward with the great initiative of the President of the region and have become more active. This is due to wise leadership of our esteemed President, for the peace and prosperity of the world. the high achievements of the foreign policy nurturing every moment of our Sovereign of Turkmenistan under the wise leadership It is gratifying to say that under the wise State with high labor success and confidently of the President over the past few years as an leadership of our esteemed President, the moving forward with the great reforms of our Independent and Permanently Neutral State state of Turkmenistan, as a sovereign and beloved Motherland. If you look at the glorious and the following important historical events neutral state, has been able to establish a history of the years of independence, you can under the direct leadership of the President. peaceful, friendly and fraternal relationship see that the aspirations of our brave people for

68 Diplomatic Focus December 2020 www.diplomaticfocus.org 25th Anniversary of the Permanent Neutrality of Turkmenistan

- Three times the election of the State principles of peaceful, friendly relations. anniversary of our forever of Turkmenistan as an Independent and These great attitudes of the President of the Neutrality, the day when Permanently Neutral State, as Vice-Chair of region and the world are recognized not only our brave ancestors dreamed o f the sessions of the United Nations General in our country or in the region, but also by the a peaceful life and a harmonious life in their Assembly; countries of the world as important tasks of hearts for centuries. the 21st century. happens. - The opening of the UN Regional Center It is also a pleasure for us to be proud to say for Preventive Diplomacy in Central Asia and Today, the so-called Prosperity of the Sovereign that the great initiatives of our esteemed the European House in 2007 in Ashgabat, State, the President of the Independent, President for the benefit of the nation are the capital of Independent and Permanently Permanent Neutrality, Independent and widely supported by our people and the world Neutral Turkmenistan; Permanent Neutrality of Turkmenistan, community. which is widely known as the dominant May the life of our esteemed President, who - On the 63rd Session of the United Nations place of lasting peace and unity, friendship has gifted his people with the Age of Happiness, General Assembly on the Initiatives of and brotherhood on earth, in the epoch of and who cares deeply for the enhancement of Independent and Permanently Neutral high development and high achievements, the international prestige of our Independent Turkmenistan on December 6, 2008 unanimous by achieving and nurturing great progress and Permanently Neutral State and the recognition of important international with the high attitudes of the people, of state peaceful, peaceful and prosperous life of our documents by 192 countries of the world; importance. people, have a long and prosperous life, long - According to the decision of the Olympic Every day of our Motherland, which celebrates life and prosperity and we wish him well. Council of Asia, the transfer of the right to host holidays during the Happiness period Jumageldi Akgaýew, Vice-Rector of the the V Asian Indoor and Martial Arts Games in presented by our esteemed President, is Turkmen State Institute of Finance Central Asia in 2017 in Ashgabat, the capital nourished by celebrations and celebrations. city, is an important event not only with the Another of our big holidays , the celebration of Amanmyrat Jumaýew, Senior Teacher of the concern of the President, but also with the which is the International Neutrality Day, which Turkmen State Institute of Finance concern of his country. It can be clearly seen is celebrated after the holy Independence that he also cares deeply about the interests Day. This wonderful historical date is the 25th of the modern world, which is based on the

www.diplomaticfocus.org Diplomatic Focus December 2020 69 2020 Year - Turkmenistan - Home of Neutrality WELL-INTENTIONED NEUTRALITY AND NEIGHBORHOOD RELATIONS Every day the holidays are filled with joyful moments and historical events in our beloved motherland, where the festivities take place. The prestige of our country is growing day by day in the harmonious, prudent domestic and foreign policy efforted by our Esteemed President Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov. The stability of the political and social situation, the peace of our country, the unity of the people, the further advancement of national economic development, the improvement of the living conditions of the population, the strengthening of freedom and rights of citizens in accordance with the law, serves as a guarantor of foreign policy victory based on principles such as respect to each other. “The level of neutrality is a great achievement of Turkmenistan and plays an important role in developing cooperation with the countries of the world,” says our Esteemed President Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov. This is due to the fact that from the moment we gained our independence, the number of countries eager to carry out friendly relations with our country during the period of Prosperity of our sovereign State, the expansion of good, equal diplomatic relations with the countries of the world, the expansion of mutually beneficial economic and cultural cooperation also clearly proves. Neutrality is a guarantee of a peaceful, free life. A peaceful, free life is the desire of all human beings. The everlasting well-being of the earth is the dream of the world community.

70 Diplomatic Focus December 2020 www.diplomaticfocus.org 25th Anniversary of the Permanent Neutrality of Turkmenistan

In our national principles of neutrality, the Supporting International Efforts in Afghanistan” independence of the Turkmen people have the source of mutual adopted on March 8 reflects the growing role Turkmen state, a milestone respect, understanding and mutual agreement, of Turkmenistan’s internationally important in its foreign policy, said the tolerance and wisdom that have lasted for projects in ensuring peace, stability, security President. As our Esteemed centuries. and good neighborly relations in the region. President says, United Nations can always rely Good-neighborly relationships are also one of on the support of Turkmenistan, which uses Turkmenistan’s foreign policy, based on the priorities. Following the policy of neutrality the political and diplomatic means to create neutrality, is founding on strategies such as and pursuing an open door policy, fruitful a conducive state of mutual understanding security, peace-loving, good relations, and economic cooperation with our neighbors and and trust, and create favorable conditions mutually beneficial cooperation. Turkmenistan other states on the basis of mutual benefit, for equal and fruitful cooperation. It is has gained great prestige internationally in equality, peace-loving, respect for sovereignty, worth noting that the high-level conference this regard. Today, the Neutrality path of and important relations with all parties is the “Policy of Neutrality and its role in ensuring our country is seen as a policy that seeks the main foreign policy of our state. international peace, security and sustainable development interests of the world, ensures development”, scheduled for December 12 in and protects international security. The As we know, the policy of Neutrality is the Ashgabat, coincides with the 75th anniversary efforts of our Esteemed President Gurbanguly strategic path of our state Turkmenistan. This of the United Nations of Turkmenistan. it Berdimuhamedov to strengthen peace, ensure means that our country pursuing the “Open makes sense. Because the Neutrality of global well-being and develop good relations Doors” policy is expanding good and mutually Turkmenistan is the reality of the present and are widely supported in the world. beneficial cooperation with neighboring and our future, which opens up new opportunities distant states and international organizations. Our Esteemed President’s initiatives to build the for the development of broad international Turkmenistan-Afghanistan-Pakistan-India gas All the years that have sprung up in our Dear cooperation in all fields. By adhering toour pipeline were also highly appreciated not only Land begin with the pursuit of good intentions. international commitments, Turkmenistan is in the region but also in the world. Obviously, This year, on the initiative of the President, ready for broad and active cooperation with this pipeline will have a positive impact on it was renamed “Turkmenistan - a place of international organizations to achieve common neighboring Afghanistan. Hundreds of new neutrality”. As it’s known, the international creative goals. infrastructure facilities will be built along its conference “Turkmenistan and international Bayrammuhammet Atanepesov, Lecturer route, which will create hundreds of jobs. Of organizations: cooperation for peace and of the Department of general disciplines course, this policy contributes to the peaceful development” was held on January 14 this of the Institute of Telecommunications and development of the peaceful life of the citizens year with the participation of the President. Informatics of Turkmenistan of Turkmenistan’s neighbors. It was dedicated to the 25th anniversary President Gurbanguly Berdymukhammedov of Turkmenistan’s Permanent Neutrality. paves the way for economic peace in the President Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov noted region. World-class support for Turkmenistan’s that Turkmenistan, as an active member of international initiatives is reflected, first and the international community, put forward a foremost, in the decisions taken by the United number of important international initiatives Nations. In this regard, the United Nations on important issues of modern times in General Assembly on June 3, 2015, entitled order to make a worthy contribution to the “Permanent Neutrality of Turkmenistan”, on sustainable development and prosperity of the November 17, 2017, “The role of the United world. Nations Regional Center for Preventive This year, our country, together with the world Diplomacy for Central Asia” and community, will widely celebrate the 25th the Security Council 2018 anniversary of the international recognition The resolution “On of Turkmenistan’s Neutrality. This is a really important date, an important event in the history of the

www.diplomaticfocus.org Diplomatic FocusDecember 2020 71 2020 Year - Turkmenistan - Home of Neutrality Neutral Turkmenistan is a center of peace and sustainable development in the region In the prosperous period of our sovereign his speech, the President noted that “... we are Turkmenistan and China have always been state, Neutrality serves as a unique bridge focusing on the geopolitical and geo-economic friendly peoples and have maintained political between the past, present and future of the potential of our country for the sake of peaceful and trade relations with each other. An Turkmen state. It is the result of the sustainable life and creative development.” example of this is the Great Silk Road. Great development of the entire spiritual life of the efforts are currently being made to restore Today, under the leadership of our beloved nation. The essence of Turkmen Neutrality is to the Silk Road, establish and develop fraternal President, a wide path has been opened for pursue national interests, to maintain stability and friendly diplomatic relations between the the establishment and development of equal, in the countryand in the region, to maintain peoples through the efforts of the President. In mutually beneficial relations with the countries national harmony, and to create favorable this regard, transport diplomacy is successfully of the world. The good-neighborly foreign conditions for internal reforms. implemented in our country. policy of the state of Turkmenistan is based on As is known, in accordance with the special the traditions of peace and humanity of our Important international initiatives for resolution “Permanent Neutrality of people. These wonderful traditions, which trace the comprehensive development of the Turkmenistan” adopted at the 50th anniversary their historical roots back to ancient times, are international transport system of our Hero meeting of the United Nations General described in various literatures. Arkadag in the prosperity epoch of our Assembly in December 1995, our country was sovereign state were discussed at the meetings An example of this is the legend of our Hero declared the first neutral state in the recent of the UN General Assembly, the Heads of State President in his book Peace Music, Friendship, history of the United Nations. This unique of the CIS, the Heads of the Caspian states, Brotherhood Music that he took his dutar and event, which has generated a wide response at the Summits of the Shanghai Cooperation to free his brother from captivity without taking in the world community, has been a strong and Organization and at other high-level forums. any weapons in his hand. This legend of the fact consistent policy of Turkmenistan, based on that music can prevail over weapons reflects On September 3-4, 2014, a high-level the principles of good neighborliness, mutual the fact that the Turkmen people’s ideas for a international conference on “The role of respect, equality and mutually beneficial peaceful life were used in earlier times. transport and transit corridors in ensuring cooperation with all countries of the world. In

72 Diplomatic Focus December 2020 www.diplomaticfocus.org 25th Anniversary of the Permanent Neutrality of Turkmenistan international cooperation and sustainable implementation of sustainable development import operations in the development” was held in Ashgabat on goals” was unanimously adopted. The VII country in a short and the initiative of the President. Following Regional Economic Cooperation Conference on convenient way. the meeting, the Ashgabat Declaration was Afghanistan (RECCA VII) was held on November All this is another clear evidence adopted. On the basis of this Declaration, on 14-15, 2017. A bilateral agreement was signed that the state of Turkmenistan is moving December 19, 2014, at the 69th session of the at the forum on the establishment of the forward confidently under the leadership of our UN General Assembly, the Resolution “The role Afghanistan-Turkmenistan-Azerbaijan-Georgia- Beloved Friend, and that the policy of our state of transport corridors in ensuring international Turkey international transport corridor Lapis of Turkmenistan on strengthening peace in the cooperation for sustainable development” Lazuli. This was an important outcome of the region and in the world is fully recognized. prepared on the initiative of our President was forum and further enhanced its importance. unanimously adopted. Authors of the resolution With the implementation of the project, it In accordance with the Resolution of the were 66 countries around the world, including will allow neighboring Afghanistan to increase President of Turkmenistan on the Declaration all Central Asian states, the Asia-Pacific region, its trade turnover and bring Afghan goods to of the Year “Turkmenistan homeland of Europe, Latin America and Africa, especially European markets. This is another testament to Neutrality” Implementation of huge projects those without access to the sea. the worldwide recognition of the humanitarian and historical programs aimed at improving policy pursued by our Hero Friend. Turkmenistan it is important. The 25th anniversary of Following the results of all this, the “First provides comprehensive assistance to the Permanent Neutrality of Independent, Neutral Universal Conference on Sustainable Transport” neighboring state of Afghanistan and provides Turkmenistan is a triumph of age-old principles was held in Turkmenistan on November 26-27, great support to the fraternal Afghan people of mutual respect, brotherhood and benevolent 2016 on the initiative of our Hero Arkadag and to restore their economy. The launch of the cooperation of the Turkmen people. the UN Secretary-General. Serhetabat-Turgundy railway, the integration The status of neutrality for the Turkmen On December 22, 2017, at a meeting of the of our Hero Arkadag into the transport and state has now become a solid foundation for Cabinet of Ministers of Turkmenistan, it logistics system of neighboring Afghanistan prosperity, because only when there is peace was announced that good news had arrived and the integration of it into the international and stability can great and fruitful development from the United Nations Headquarters in transport system through Turkmenistan are is achieved in all areas of the state. New York, USA. As noted, on the initiative being successfully implemented. As a result of of our Hero Arkadag, at the 74th Mejlis of the modernization of this rebuilt railway, the Kakabay Hojanepesov, Vice-Rector for the 72nd Session of the United Nations capacity of the Turgundy station has increased. Academic affairs of the Institute of General Assembly on December 20, 2017, the Its role in Afghanistan’s trade has increased, with Telecommunications and Informatics of Declaration of “Strengthening the coordination great opportunities for the export of Afghan Turkmenistan of all types of transport in connection with the products to world markets and for export and

www.diplomaticfocus.org Diplomatic Focus December 2020 73 74 Diplomatic Focus December 2020 www.diplomaticfocus.org www.diplomaticfocus.org Diplomatic Focus December 2020 75 76 Diplomatic Focus December 2020 www.diplomaticfocus.org

25th Anniversary of the Permanent Neutrality of Turkmenistan