Islamabad Conference Emphasizes Neutrality’s Key Role in International Peace and Stability
The Embassy of Turkmenistan in Pakistan, in collaboration with the Institute of Peace and Diplomatic Studies (IPDS), recently hosted a conference in Islamabad titled “The Role of Neutrality in Strengthening International Peace” to commemorate the 30th anniversary of Turkmenistan’s permanent neutrality.
During the conference, Ambassador of Turkmenistan Atajan Movlamov highlighted the history and significance of Turkmenistan’s neutrality, recognized twice by the United Nations. He emphasized the vital role of this status in promoting global security, stability, and peaceful international relations. The Ambassador also presented Turkmenistan’s activities and priorities for the UN-declared 2025 International Year of Peace and Trust, urging all nations to collaborate in implementing these principles.
Distinguished attendees at the conference included Federal Minister for Parliamentary Affairs of Pakistan Tariq Fazal Chaudhry, UN Resident Coordinator in Pakistan Mohamed Yahya, and other notable figures in academia and diplomacy. They acknowledged Turkmenistan’s successful demonstration of neutrality over the past three decades and its alignment with UN values. The speakers highlighted the importance of leveraging neutrality to achieve peace, prosperity, and conflict resolution globally.
The event coincided with the 30th anniversary of the historic Islamabad Declaration, where Turkmenistan was first recognized as a neutral state during the III Summit of the Economic Cooperation Organization. This milestone marked the beginning of a strong foundation for collaboration between Pakistan and Turkmenistan, leading to more than 60 international agreements and significant projects like the TAPI gas pipeline, promoting regional connectivity and stability.
IPDS President Farhat Asif emphasized the transformative role of the TAPI project in enhancing regional peace and prosperity, beyond serving as an energy initiative. Turkmenistan has extended its cooperation with Pakistan in sectors like fiber optic connectivity, power transmission, and potential integration with the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor under the Belt and Road Initiative.
Both countries have also collaborated on initiatives focusing on regional stability, particularly in Afghanistan, through projects like TAPI and transnational rail networks. These efforts aim to boost economic prosperity and connectivity, benefiting not only Pakistan and Turkmenistan but the broader region.
The conference concluded with a call to build upon diplomatic cooperation and learn from Turkmenistan’s successful model of neutrality for global security and development. The discussions held are expected to inspire new partnerships, strengthen diplomatic ties, and contribute to a more peaceful and prosperous future.
Representatives from various sectors, including diplomatic missions, UN agencies, business communities, and the media, attended the conference, followed by an Iftar dinner hosted by the Embassy of Turkmenistan. The event served as a crucial platform for discussing the significance of neutrality in the contemporary world and reaffirming Turkmenistan’s commitment to international peace and security.
