Brussels, Belgium – Turkmenistan’s Ambassador to Belgium, Sapar Palvanov, delivered a lecture on permanent neutrality at the Université libre de Bruxelles (ULB), invited by the student group Lale. Moderated by Derya Soysal, the session featured an in-depth discussion on Turkmenistan’s neutral stance, its diplomatic role in global conflicts, and the significance of preventive diplomacy.
Defining Turkmenistan’s Neutrality
Derya Soysal: What does neutrality mean for Turkmenistan?
Sapar Palvanov: Turkmenistan’s neutrality is an active diplomatic strategy, not isolation. Our policy is based on four principles:
- We do not join military alliances or allow foreign military bases on our soil.
- We promote peace and dialogue instead of engaging in conflicts.
- We maintain balanced diplomatic relations with all nations, emphasizing mutual respect and cooperation.
- We support humanitarian aid and regional development for long-term stability.
By adhering to these principles, Turkmenistan has positioned itself as a trusted international mediator.
Turkmenistan’s Role in Diplomatic Mediation
Turkmenistan has played a key role in mediation efforts, proving that neutrality fosters peace.
Tajik Civil War (1990s): Turkmenistan facilitated dialogue between the Tajik government and opposition forces, hosting negotiations in Ashgabat and supporting UN-led peace efforts.
Russia-Ukraine Conflict: While many nations have taken sides, Turkmenistan has maintained diplomatic, economic, and humanitarian ties with both countries while rejecting war as a solution.
- Turkmenistan opposes war in any form, advocating peaceful dialogue.
- Humanitarian assistance has been provided to Ukraine, particularly for children affected by the conflict.
- Economic ties remain with both nations, ensuring cooperation despite tensions.
These actions reinforce Turkmenistan’s commitment to neutrality and its role as a responsible global partner.
Preventive Diplomacy and the UNRCCA
Derya Soysal: Why is preventive diplomacy important?
Sapar Palvanov: Preventive diplomacy is essential for avoiding conflicts before they escalate. Turkmenistan took a significant step in this regard by establishing the United Nations Regional Centre for Preventive Diplomacy for Central Asia (UNRCCA) in Ashgabat in 2007. This center helps resolve disputes through dialogue and negotiation rather than war.
Success Stories:
- Kyrgyzstan-Tajikistan Border Conflict: The UNRCCA intervened to de-escalate tensions, preventing further violence.
- Regional Security and Water Disputes: The center actively mediates in Central Asia, ensuring that small disputes do not turn into larger conflicts.
The UNRCCA is the only center of its kind, setting a precedent for other regions to adopt similar conflict-prevention models.
Expanding Preventive Diplomacy Worldwide
Derya Soysal: What makes the UNRCCA unique?
Sapar Palvanov: Its success proves that preventive diplomacy is an effective way to maintain stability. Inspired by this, other regions are now considering establishing similar centers.
2025: International Year of Peace and Trust
Turkmenistan has championed 2025 as the International Year of Peace and Trust, a UN-recognized initiative promoting diplomacy over conflict. This effort includes:
- A high-level international conference in Turkmenistan to unite world leaders and discuss conflict resolution.
- Advocacy for peaceful negotiations and mediation-based diplomacy.
- Recognition of successful peace agreements, such as the recent Kyrgyzstan-Tajikistan border resolution.
By leading this initiative, Turkmenistan aims to inspire more nations to prioritize dialogue and cooperation over division and hostility.
The Role of Future Diplomats
Derya Soysal: Why does this matter for young diplomats?
Sapar Palvanov: Today’s global conflicts highlight the need for new diplomatic approaches. Future diplomats must embrace neutrality, preventive diplomacy, and global cooperation.
Key Diplomatic Priorities:
- Mediators to help resolve disputes peacefully.
- Neutral spaces for conflict resolution without political pressure.
- Preventive diplomacy to stop crises before they escalate.
Turkmenistan’s diplomatic model shows that neutrality is not passive—it is a strategic, effective approach to fostering international peace. By participating in diplomatic initiatives like the International Year of Peace and Trust, young professionals can contribute to building a more stable world.
Conclusion: Turkmenistan’s neutrality serves as a practical model for global diplomacy. As 2025 approaches, the world has an opportunity to embrace trust, cooperation, and dialogue. Through active engagement, future diplomats can help shape a more peaceful international landscape.
Sapar Palvanov: I invite you all to be part of this global initiative and explore how diplomacy can create a more interconnected, peaceful world. Thank you!
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