The Embassy of Turkmenistan in Brussels hosted an introductory meeting with a group of 30 students from prestigious universities across the People’s Republic of China.
The young participants were visiting Brussels as part of an educational programme designed to introduce future diplomats and international affairs professionals to the work of the European institutions, diplomatic missions and the broader international community based in the Belgian capital.
As part of the programme, Ambassador of Turkmenistan Sapar Palvanov welcomed the students to the Embassy and presented the main areas of activity of Turkmenistan’s diplomatic mission in Brussels, which also represents the country in its relations with the institutions of the European Union.
The Ambassador provided the guests with an overview of Turkmenistan’s history, modern development and rich cultural heritage. He also outlined the fundamental principles of the country’s foreign policy, which is based on permanent neutrality, peaceful dialogue, mutual respect, good-neighbourly relations and constructive international cooperation.
Particular attention was paid to Turkmenistan’s peace-building initiatives and its consistent contribution to strengthening international peace, trust and sustainable development. It was emphasised that Turkmenistan advocates the resolution of contemporary global challenges through political and diplomatic means and maintains constructive relations with all interested states and international organisations.
The students were also introduced to the achievements of independent and permanently neutral Turkmenistan, which celebrates the 35th anniversary of its independence in 2026.
The Ambassador presented the official motto of the year: “Independent Neutral Turkmenistan, the Homeland of purposeful winged horses.”
In this context, he spoke about the special place of the Akhal-Teke horse in the history, culture and national identity of the Turkmen people. These unique horses were described as a source of national pride and as a symbol of beauty, loyalty, strength, grace and continuity between generations.
The guests were also informed about the preparations for major international equestrian and cultural events planned to take place in the Netherlands in September 2026. It was noted that these events would provide an important international platform for presenting the unique heritage of Akhal-Teke horse breeding, as well as the national traditions and contemporary culture of Turkmenistan.
A separate part of the discussion was devoted to Turkmenistan’s domestic development policy, which places the well-being of the people, social protection and the continuous improvement of living standards among its principal priorities.
The Ambassador also spoke about the significance of the Halk Maslahaty of Turkmenistan as an important national institution where major issues concerning the country’s development are considered and decisions aimed at promoting prosperity and public welfare are discussed.
The students were informed that the next meeting of the Halk Maslahaty is scheduled to take place on September 23, 2026. The forthcoming national forum is expected to become an important event in the public and political life of the country, reflecting the unity of the state and the people and Turkmenistan’s commitment to social justice, stability and sustainable development.
Following the presentation, Ambassador Palvanov organised a short educational quiz for the participants. The students were invited to answer questions concerning Turkmenistan’s history, foreign policy, national traditions and cultural heritage.
The most attentive participants, who successfully answered the questions, received commemorative gifts. A traditional Turkmen carpet was presented as the principal prize to one of the winners.
The visit continued with an open and lively exchange between the Ambassador and the students. The participants asked questions about diplomatic work, Turkmenistan’s cooperation with the European Union, the country’s international initiatives, its culture and national traditions. They also shared their impressions of Brussels, their academic interests and their future professional aspirations.
Such educational visits are gradually becoming a valued tradition at the Embassy of Turkmenistan in Brussels. The diplomatic mission regularly welcomes students from leading universities who come to the Belgian capital to learn more about Europe, the work of the European Union institutions and the practical activities of diplomatic representations.
These meetings contribute to broadening young people’s knowledge of Turkmenistan, strengthening intercultural dialogue, promoting youth diplomacy and building new connections among future professionals in the field of international relations. ///Embassy of Turkmenistan to Belgium, 6 August 2026