On the sidelines of the International Forum “The Role of Women in Modern Society: Developing International Cooperation to Achieve the Sustainable Development Goals” held in the Avaza National Tourist Zone, and the International Conference on Neutrality, scheduled for 12 December 2025 in Ashgabat, the National Leader of the Turkmen people and Chairman of the Halk Maslakhaty, Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov—affectionately known as Hero Arkadag—engaged in a series of productive bilateral meetings with international dignitaries.
These discussions, timed around the celebrations of the 30th anniversary of Turkmenistan’s permanent neutrality and the International Year of Peace and Trust, underscored the nation’s commitment to global dialogue, cultural exchange, and sustainable partnerships.
One key encounter was with Neda Berger, head of the Turkmen-Austrian Friendship Group, who visited Turkmenistan amid the festive atmosphere leading up to International Neutrality Day on December 12. Berger extended warm congratulations on the neutrality milestone and praised Turkmenistan’s peacekeeping efforts on the world stage.
In response, Hero Arkadag highlighted how neutrality serves as a foundation for peace and trust, expressing optimism that Berger’s visit would invigorate bilateral ties. The conversation delved into the importance of cultural and humanitarian cooperation, with both sides acknowledging the Friendship Group’s role as a vital bridge between the two nations.
They reflected on successful joint initiatives like concerts by the Turkmen-Austrian Symphony Orchestra “Galkynysh” and Vienna Balls, which have enriched mutual understanding. Berger, who has led the group for years, was commended for her contributions, and she in turn lauded the leadership of Hero Arkadag and President Serdar Berdimuhamedov in fostering these bonds. The meeting wrapped up with mutual appreciation and well-wishes, accompanied by a heartfelt poem from Berger celebrating Turkmenistan’s neutrality, its future, and the enduring spirit of its people under Hero Arkadag’s guidance.
Another significant meeting involved Hiroyuki Tsubai, head of the Turkmen-Japanese Friendship Group, who expressed profound honor in joining the neutrality celebrations. He commended Turkmenistan’s neutrality-based foreign policy and its global recognition, while congratulating both Hero Arkadag and President Berdimuhamedov on the occasion.
Hero Arkadag welcomed Tsubai warmly, thanking him for his participation and voicing confidence in exploring new avenues for cooperation during the visit. The dialogue emphasized the longstanding mutual respect and equality in Turkmen-Japanese relations, with a focus on economic collaborations. Hero Arkadag spotlighted the contributions of Japanese firms, such as ITOCHU’s involvement in major projects like the natural gas-to-gasoline plant in Ovadandepe, a cement plant in Kelat, and a urea plant in Mary province. These endeavors highlight
Turkmenistan’s emphasis on efficiency, environmental standards, technological innovation, and foreign investment. Tsubai assured continued efforts to bolster ties, appreciating the supportive environment provided by Turkmen leadership. The exchange concluded with shared aspirations for expanded interstate cooperation.
Earlier, on December 8, Hero Arkadag met with Kakha Imnadze, Special Representative of the UN Secretary-General and Head of the UN Regional Centre for Preventive Diplomacy for Central Asia (UNRCCA).
Imnadze conveyed greetings from UN Secretary-General António Guterres and praised Turkmenistan’s initiatives for peace and regional development, particularly noting the UNRCCA’s establishment at Hero Arkadag’s suggestion.
Hero Arkadag reciprocated the greetings and expressed pleasure in the timing, just before Neutrality Day. He elaborated on 2025 as the International Year of Peace and Trust, aligning with the 30th anniversary of neutrality and the UN’s 80th anniversary, and mentioned upcoming international forums in Ashgabat as platforms for global discussions.
The meeting affirmed Turkmenistan’s strategic partnership with the UN, covering preventive diplomacy, energy security, transport corridors, and environmental protection. Hero Arkadag also referenced President Berdimuhamedov’s recent UN General Assembly address, which outlined key initiatives. Both sides highlighted UNRCCA’s role in regional stability and committed to ongoing collaboration, ending on a note of optimism and mutual goodwill.
These meetings reflect Turkmenistan’s proactive diplomacy, blending cultural, economic, and international elements to foster lasting global connections amid the women’s forum’s emphasis on sustainable development and equality. /// nCa, 11 December 2025