Tariq Saeedi As the inaugural meeting of the Board of Peace (BoP) has now taken place, it's an opportune moment to reflect on its implications and potential trajectory. Chaired by President Trump, this gathering in Washington, D.C., brought together representatives from over two dozen nations, focusing primarily on Gaza's fragile ceasefire and reconstruction. While the … [Read more...]
EU and UN Launch Regional CHANGE Programme to Advance Gender Equality in Central Asia
The European Union and the United Nations (UN), in partnership with the governments of Central Asian countries, have officially launched an EU-funded multi-country programme aimed at preventing gender-based violence and promoting gender equality throughout the region. This was reported by the EU Delegation to Kazakhstan. The programme, titled "Challenging Harmful Attitudes … [Read more...]
A ceremony to present state awards on the oссasion of the 30th anniversary of Turkmenistan’s Neutrality held at the MFA of Turkmenistan
Оn February 10, 2026, a solemn ceremony was held at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Turkmenistan to award representatives of international organizations with the jubilee medals «Türkmenistanyň Bitaraplygynyň 30 ýyllygyna» (“To the 30th Anniversary of Turkmenistan's Neutrality”). Deputy Chairman of the Cabinet of Ministers, Minister of Foreign Affairs of Turkmenistan … [Read more...]
United Nations and Private Sector Discuss Avenues for Strengthening Cooperation for SDGs at Partnership Platform Meeting in Turkmenistan
The United Nations in Turkmenistan convened a meeting of the UN–Private Sector Partnership Platform, bringing together national partners, private sector representatives, and international organizations to advance collaborative action toward achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). In his opening remarks, UN Resident Coordinator in Turkmenistan, Mr. Dmitry … [Read more...]
Regional Centre for Climate Change Technologies is almost ready for launch in Ashgabat. We give here some details about the Centre and the climate change technologies.
nCa Report Preparation for the establishment of the regional centre for Climate Change Technologies in Ashgabat are almost complete, said the UN Resident Coordinator for Turkmenistan is Dmitry Shlapachenko, in his remarks at a briefing hosted by the foreign office of Turkmenistan on 5 February 2026. He said that the formal announcement would possibly be made in April … [Read more...]
United Nations and Government of Turkmenistan Review 2025 Results and Launch Joint Priorities for 2026–2030
Ashgabat, 3 February 2026 — The Government of Turkmenistan and the United Nations held a Joint Results Groups Meeting today at the UN House to review progress achieved under the 2021–2025 UN–Turkmenistan Sustainable Development Cooperation Framework (UNSDCF) and to outline joint priorities for the new Cooperation Framework cycle for 2026–2030. The meeting gathered … [Read more...]
UN and Development Partners in Turkmenistan focus on strengthening collaboration in 2026
On 30 January 2026, the United Nations in Turkmenistan convened the Annual Meeting of the Development Partners Coordination Group (DPCG), bringing together representatives of the Government of Turkmenistan, diplomatic missions, international organizations, and development partners to review progress in 2025 and chart a strengthened path for cooperation in 2026. The … [Read more...]
A Critical Analysis of Trump’s Board of Peace: The Inevitable Sunset – Part Two
Tariq Saeedi In the first part of this analysis, I examined the foundational flaws in the Board of Peace (BoP) charter—its dramatic departure from the UN-mandated focus on Gaza reconstruction, the absence of essential governance mechanisms like succession planning and accountability, and its troubling resemblance to a personal fiefdom rather than a legitimate international … [Read more...]
Ashgabat’s Global Initiative: Turkmenistan Begins Preparations for the Year of International Law
Turkmenistan has launched a large-scale international initiative, reinforcing its status as a key player in global diplomacy. During a recent meeting of the Cabinet of Ministers, Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Rashid Meredov presented a detailed Action Plan for 2026, aimed at preparing for the 2028 Year of International Law. The proposal to declare 2028 the Year … [Read more...]
A Critical Analysis of Trump’s Board of Peace: Ambition Without Foundation – PART ONE
Tariq Saeedi Introduction When I first learned about President Trump's Board of Peace (BoP), I expected something profound and of lasting value from someone of his intellectual stature. What I discovered instead was a deeply troubling document that raises more questions than it answers. --- The BoP charter appears to be a hastily constructed framework that diverges … [Read more...]
SPECA Economic Forum 2026 Concludes with Strong Regional Commitments on Connectivity, Trade, and Sustainable Development
The SPECA Economic Forum 2026, held on 21–22 January in Ashgabat, brought together high-level government representatives, UN regional commissions, international financial institutions, and regional experts to advance cooperation across transport, energy, digital trade, and sustainable development in Central Asia. Hosted under the theme “Regional Connectivity for Sustainable … [Read more...]
UN and Embassy of Israel Honour Victims of the Holocaust in Ashgabat Ceremony
Ashgabat, 23 January 2026 – The United Nations in Turkmenistan has hosted a solemn ceremony in observance of the International Day of Commemoration in Memory of the Victims of the Holocaust organized by the Embassy of the State of Israel. The event, brought together the diplomatic community, government partners, representatives of cultural and religious communities, and UN … [Read more...]
Membership of Turkmenistan in the specialized bodies of the United Nations
As of January 21, 2026 As part of its continued engagement within the United Nations system, Turkmenistan is represented in a number of specialized and intergovernmental bodies. As of 21 January 2026, Turkmenistan holds membership in the following United Nations bodies: Executive Committee of the Programme of the United Nations High Commissioner for … [Read more...]
Advancing Peace and Trust through Multilateral Engagement: Outcome Documents of International Forums hosted by Turkmenistan Circulated at the United Nations
Outcome documents of two international events held with the participation of Turkmenistan have been published and circulated as official documents of the United Nations General Assembly and the United Nations Security Council during the 80th session. Documents are available by following … [Read more...]
Turkmenistan and the UNRCCA Discuss Development of Preventive Diplomacy and the Establishment of the University of Peace and Neutrality
On 12 January 2026, a meeting was held at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Turkmenistan between Foreign Minister Rashid Meredov and the Special Representative of the UN Secretary-General, Head of the United Nations Regional Centre for Preventive Diplomacy for Central Asia (UNRCCA), Kaha Imnadze. During the talks, the diplomats reaffirmed Turkmenistan’s commitment to … [Read more...]
Economies of Central Asia Show Robust Growth Amid Slowdown in CIS – UN Report
Most countries in the Caucasus and Central Asia maintain strong economic growth momentum, despite an overall slowdown in the Commonwealth of Independent States (CIS) and Georgia region. These findings are presented in the new UN report "World Economic Situation and Prospects 2026." According to the report, following 4.6 per cent growth in 2024, the region’s GDP is … [Read more...]
Turkmenistan supports expanding the presence of UN specialized agencies in the country.
Turkmenistan is interested in expanding the presence of UN specialized agencies, structural units and programs in its country. This was stated at a meeting on 8 January 2026, between Turkmenistan Foreign Minister Rashid Meredov and UN Resident Coordinator in Turkmenistan Dmitry Shlapachenko. During the meeting, the parties discussed a wide range of issues related to the … [Read more...]
Turkmenistan’s Transport Diplomacy: United Nations Decade of Sustainable Transport 2026–2035
At the 64th plenary meeting of the 80th session of the UN General Assembly, the resolution "United Nations Decade of Sustainable Transport (2026–2035)" was adopted by consensus at the initiative of Turkmenistan. The primary purpose of the United Nations Decade of Sustainable Transport (2026–2035) is to accelerate collective action towards the formation of sustainable, … [Read more...]
Turkmenistan at the Forefront of Global Energy Diplomacy: Key Aspects of the UN Resolution on Reliable Energy Connectivity
Energy connectivity in the modern world can be metaphorically compared to the circulatory system of the global economy. Imagine that the vessels are infrastructure and transit routes; if they function stably and uninterruptedly, then all organs — countries and regions — receive the necessary resources for life and development, regardless of their distance from the "heart," the … [Read more...]
Turkmenistan’s Foreign Minister Reviews the Year: UN General Assembly Adopts New Resolutions on Energy and Transport Initiated by Turkmenistan
At the ceremony “International Year of Peace and Trust: Confident Steps of Neutral Turkmenistan,” organized by the Halk Maslahaty of Turkmenistan in Ashgabat on 25 Dec 2025, Deputy Chairman of the Cabinet of Ministers and Minister of Foreign Affairs Rashid Meredov delivered a keynote speech. The Minister emphasized that 2025 has become a landmark year in the history of … [Read more...]
Women’s Leadership and Peace: Outcomes of the Awaza Conference – Final Document on the Role of Women in Modern Society Published
Turkmen state media have released the text of the Final Document of the International Conference "The Role of Women in Modern Society: Promoting International Cooperation for Sustainable Development," which took place in the Awaza National Tourist Zone on December 10, 2025. In the document, conference participants reaffirmed their commitment to the goals of gender equality … [Read more...]
Turkmenistan — Center of Multilateral Dialogue: International Organizations Confirm the Importance of Neutrality for Global Peace
Delegations from international and regional structures participated in the International Forum held in Ashgabat, timed to coincide with the International Year of Peace and Trust, the International Day of Neutrality, and the 30th anniversary of Turkmenistan's permanent neutrality. After the plenary session featuring speeches by heads of state and government, the forum … [Read more...]
Tokayev at the International Forum in Ashgabat: Kazakhstan Proposes to Expand the UN Security Council and Create an International Water Organization
President of Kazakhstan Kassym‑Jomart Tokayev, addressing the International Forum on Peace and Trust, underscored the urgent need for reform of the United Nations. He called for the expansion of the Security Council and the strengthening of the role of the General Assembly in global decision‑making. “Despite certain successes in resolving individual conflicts, the overall … [Read more...]
Neutrality as a “living process”: Turkmenistan proposed to create a University of Peace and Trust jointly with the United Nations – Speech by President Serdar Berdimuhamedov at the International Forum of Peace and Trust in Ashgabat
President of Turkmenistan Serdar Berdimuhamedov warmly welcomed the heads of State and Government, heads of international organizations, politicians, diplomats, parliamentarians, scientists and public figures who arrived in Turkmenistan to celebrate the International Day of Neutrality and the 30th anniversary of the international legal recognition of the country's permanent … [Read more...]
Speech by President of Turkmenistan at an expanded meeting of the Cabinet of Ministers (6 December 2025)
Dear participants of the meeting! At the initiative of Turkmenistan, the United Nations General Assembly adopted by consensus the Resolution "2025 – International Year of Peace and Trust", which became one of the significant political events. In this regard, I would like to note that a number of important international events were held in 2025. The significance of the … [Read more...]
Central Asia’s Voice in the UN: Kyrgyzstan Ambassador to Turkmenistan Holds Briefing on His Country’s Candidacy for UN Security Council
Elvira Kadyrova As part of diplomatic efforts aimed at gaining international support, the Ambassador of the Kyrgyz Republic to Turkmenistan, Azizbek Madmarov, held a briefing in Ashgabat dedicated to Kyrgyzstan's candidacy for non-permanent membership in the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) for the 2027–2028 period. The event was attended by heads and staff of … [Read more...]
The Inspiring Saga of Arkadag and Neutrality
Tariq Saeedi Executive Summary Immediately upon assuming the presidency in 2007, Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov transformed Turkmenistan's neutrality—originally proclaimed during the first president's tenure in 1995—into an active, positive, and dynamic framework that fostered proactive international cooperation while maintaining non-alignment principles. His leadership … [Read more...]
UN and Government of Turkmenistan Advance Joint Programmes for Sustainable Development
Ashgabat, 13 November 2025 – The United Nations in Turkmenistan and the Government of Turkmenistan convened a meeting of the Interdepartmental Coordination Commission to discuss and align efforts on joint programmes that will support the country’s national priorities and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The meeting, chaired by Mammetguly Astanagulov, Minister … [Read more...]
Roundtable on Strengthening SDG Reporting in Turkmenistan Held in Ashgabat
Ashgabat, 30 October 2025 — The National Working Group on the Implementation of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) in Turkmenistan, in collaboration with the United Nations system, held a roundtable discussion focused on strengthening national SDG reporting mechanisms. The meeting brought together representatives of ministries and agencies of Turkmenistan … [Read more...]
UN Resident Coordinator Engages Entrepreneurs in Mary to Enhance Collaboration on Sustainable Development
Mary, Turkmenistan — Dmitry Shlapachenko, UN Resident Coordinator in Turkmenistan, convened a meeting with entrepreneurs from Mary as part of the Memorandum of Understanding between the United Nations and the Union of Industrialists and Entrepreneurs of Turkmenistan (UIET). The session included representatives from “Taze Ay,” a food industry enterprise, and “Gerchek,” … [Read more...]
This one is for unstoppable Narine
Tariq Saeedi In a world often bogged down by bureaucracy and big-picture debates, it's the people on the ground who really make a difference—the ones who roll up their sleeves and turn ideas into action that touch lives. And if there's anyone who embodies that spirit, it's Dr. Narine Sahakyan, the UNDP Resident Representative in Turkmenistan. I've known Narine since her … [Read more...]
Turkmenistan Marks 80th Anniversary of the United Nations — Building Our Future Together
The United Nations in Turkmenistan warmly invites partners, general public, media representatives to join nationwide celebrations marking the 80th anniversary of the United Nations — a milestone of global cooperation, peace, and shared progress. Location Ashgabat 21 Archabil 744000 Ashgabat Turkmenistan 23 October 2025 - 25 October 2025 About the … [Read more...]
President of Turkmenistan Approves Proposals to Strengthen Cooperation with the UN – Awaza Program of Action and Ashgabat’s Priority Positions on Global Issues on the Agenda
On 17 October 2025, during a meeting of the Cabinet of Ministers, Deputy Chairman of the Cabinet of Ministers and Minister of Foreign Affairs of Turkmenistan Rashid Meredov presented a report on cooperation within the framework of the Strategic Advisory Council “Turkmenistan–UN.” Established in March 2024 by a decree of the President of Turkmenistan, this council serves as a … [Read more...]
Global Recognition: UN Adopts Resolution on Awaza Political Declaration for Landlocked Countries
The UN General Assembly unanimously adopted the Resolution titled “Awaza Political Declaration” during the 18th plenary meeting of the 80th session. This was announced by Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs Rashid Meredov during a government meeting on Friday, 17 Oct. The Awaza Political Declaration was one of the outcomes of the Third UN Conference on … [Read more...]
China’s Position Paper on the United Nations General Assembly Resolution 2758
On October 25, 1971, at the 26th session of the U.N. General Assembly, Resolution 2758 was adopted with an overwhelming majority, which “decides to restore all its rights to the People’s Republic of China and to recognize the representatives of its Government as the only legitimate representatives of China to the United Nations, and to expel forthwith the representatives of … [Read more...]
Central Asian Leaders at UN General Assembly: Urgent Call to Protect Glaciers and Water Resources
At the 80th session of the UN General Assembly, Central Asian leaders issued a stark warning about the rapid melting of glaciers, which threatens water and food security for millions. The Presidents of Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, and Uzbekistan proposed bold initiatives, including international forums and new institutions, to avert an impending … [Read more...]
China: The Driving Force of the peace, stability and progress
Ji Shumin, Ambassador of China to Turkmenistan This year, the United Nations celebrates its 80th anniversary, but this anniversary year has proven to be far from calm: various doubts and negative assessments are being voiced regarding the role and importance of the UN. At the same time, it should be noted that the forces … [Read more...]
Priority Positions of Turkmenistan at the 80th Session of the United Nations General Assembly
Turkmenistan regards the 80th anniversary session of the United Nations General Assembly as an important stage in international efforts to strengthen peace and stability. In today’s complex global environment, marked by numerous challenges and declining levels of trust, it is especially relevant to harness the potential of the United Nations — its political and diplomatic … [Read more...]
Statement by the President of Turkmenistan at the general debate of the 80th session of the UN General Assembly
Dear Chairman, Distinguished heads and members of delegations, ladies and gentlemen, First of all, let me congratulate you on the beginning of the 80th session of the United Nations General Assembly and wish you fruitful work. I congratulate Ms. Annalena Baerbock on her election as President of the General Assembly and wish her every success. I would also like to … [Read more...]
UNGA: President of Turkmenistan Proposes World Summit for Peace and Trust and ‘Digital Integration’ Platform
On 23 September 2025, President of Turkmenistan Serdar Berdimuhamedov delivered a statement at the general debate of the 80th session of the UN General Assembly. Here is statement summary, published by the UN: Serdar Berdimuhamedov, President of Turkmenistan, said that, as a permanently neutral State that aims to cooperate with the UN to ensure international peace and … [Read more...]
President of Turkmenistan holds meeting with UN Secretary-General António Guterres
During a working visit to the United States, President of Turkmenistan Serdar Berdimuhamedov met with United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres. During the talks, the head of Turkmenistan highly praised the UN's activities, noting that over the past 80 years, the organization has done tremendous work to ensure peace, security, and stability worldwide. The President … [Read more...]
Turkmenistan Foreign Minister Meets with UN Under-Secretaries-General
On 22 September 2025, on the sidelines of the 80th session of the UN General Assembly in New York, Turkmenistan’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Rashid Meredov, held separate meetings with UN Under-Secretary-General and High Representative for the Least Developed Countries, Landlocked Developing Countries, and Small Island Developing States, Rabab Fatima, and Rosemary DiCarlo is … [Read more...]
President of Turkmenistan attended the High-level Meeting to Commemorate the 80th Anniversary of the United Nations
On 22 September 2025, as part of his working visit to the United States of America, President Serdar Berdimuhamedov of Turkmenistan took part in the High-level Meeting to Commemorate the 80th Anniversary of the United Nations. The event began with a musical performance by the youth choir Sing for Hope, singers from the Metropolitan Opera Choir, and pianist David Watkins, … [Read more...]
Central Asia: The Quiet Powerhouse Shaping a Stable Future at UNGA
Tariq Saeedi and Elvira Kadyrova As the world gathers for the 80th session of the United Nations General Assembly in New York this September, there's a palpable sense that this meeting carries more weight than many in recent memory. With the theme "Better together: 80 years and more for peace, development, and human rights," it arrives at a time when global cooperation … [Read more...]
Turkmenistan Investment Forum Highlights Opportunities for Landlocked Developing Countries
Elvira Kadyrova Awaza, Turkmenistan – 18 September 2025 – The Turkmenistan Investment Forum, a pivotal gathering aimed at fostering country's economic growth featured a compelling pre-recorded address by Ms. Rabab Fatima, Under Secretary-General and High Representative for the Least Developed Countries, Landlocked Developing Countries, and Small Island Developing … [Read more...]
Foreign Minister of Turkmenistan Meets with UN Representatives – Focus on UN’s 80th Anniversary and General Assembly Session
On 10 September 2025, Minister of Foreign Affairs of Turkmenistan Rashid Meredov, held meetings with Dmitry Shlapachenko, the UN Resident Coordinator in Turkmenistan, and Kaha Imnadze, the Special Representative of the UN Secretary-General and Head of the UN Regional Centre for Preventive Diplomacy for Central Asia (UNRCCA). These meetings underscored Turkmenistan’s active role … [Read more...]
Ashgabat and Moscow Discuss Strengthening Cooperation at the UN
On 8 September 2025, consultations were held in Ashgabat between the Director of the Department of International Organizations of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Turkmenistan, R.A. Annaberdiyev, and the Director of the Department of International Organizations of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Russia, K.M. Logvinov, according to the Russian foreign ministry. The … [Read more...]
Tajikistan joins the Group of Friends of Neutrality for Peace, Security and Sustainable Development
Tajikistan officially joined the Group of Friends of Neutrality for Peace, Security, and Sustainable Development. This would reinforce the Group's commitment to fostering global peace, security, and sustainable development through the principles of neutrality. The Group of Friends of Neutrality for Peace, Security and Sustainable Development? Initiated by Turkmenistan, … [Read more...]
Briefing on Turkmenistan’s Priority Positions for the 80th Session of the UN General Assembly Held at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs
On 30 August 2025, a briefing on Turkmenistan’s Priority Positions for the upcoming 80th session of the United Nations General Assembly was held at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Turkmenistan. Participants included heads and staff of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, heads and representatives of diplomatic missions and international organizations accredited in Ashgabat, … [Read more...]
Туркменистан на Генассамблее ООН: фокус на нейтралитет, мир и устойчивое развитие
На предстоящей 80-й сессии Генеральной Ассамблеи Организации Объединённых Наций Туркменистан представит ряд стратегических инициатив, направленных на укрепление глобального мира, безопасности и устойчивого развития. Приоритетные позиции, озвученные вице-премьером и министром иностранных дел Рашидом Мередовым на заседании правительства Туркменистана, 29 августа, включают … [Read more...]