Turkmenistan’s Ambassador Addresses Catholic University of Leuven
Peace Conference at KU Leuven: A Call for Unity and Understanding
On April 27, the Catholic University of Leuven in Belgium, renowned as one of Europe’s oldest and most prestigious universities, hosted a significant Peace Conference aimed at fostering stability and mutual understanding in today’s complex world. The event featured Turkmenistan’s Ambassador to Brussels, Sapar Palvanov, as a key speaker, highlighting the importance of peace and cooperation.
Co-organized by the Embassy of Turkmenistan, the university’s student association "KULTUR," and EUROVIA, the conference attracted a diverse audience. Participants included academics, youth organizations, media representatives, members of the diplomatic corps, Belgian parliamentarians, and officials from the mayor’s office—underscoring the broad interest in the discussed themes.
Ambassador Palvanov delivered a profound address centered on peace, describing it as not merely the absence of conflict but an active approach to daily life that fosters unity and mutual understanding among peoples. "Peace is a daily construction, choice by choice," he emphasized, setting a reflective tone for the discussions that followed.
He detailed Turkmenistan’s unique journey since gaining independence in 1991, opting for a strategy of positive permanent neutrality. This stance gained international recognition from the UN General Assembly and has shaped Turkmenistan’s foreign policy, which shuns military alliances in favor of peaceful dialogue and cooperation.
The Ambassador illustrated how this neutrality has bolstered both regional and global security, citing Turkmenistan’s constructive role in facilitating peace talks in Tajikistan during the 1990s and its ongoing involvement in rebuilding Afghanistan through significant projects like the TAPI gas pipeline. Palvanov highlighted Turkmenistan’s balanced approach, aiding countries in need while maintaining diplomatic relations with conflicting parties.
A notable aspect of his address was Turkmenistan’s global peacekeeping initiatives proposed at the United Nations, including the proposal to declare 2025 as the International Year of Peace and Trust, which has garnered widespread support. He announced an upcoming high-level international forum in Ashgabat in December 2025 focused on preventive diplomacy and fostering global trust.
To further engage participants, the conference featured two videos showcasing Turkmenistan’s rich cultural heritage and modern achievements, including a celebration of the iconic Akhal-Teke horse, a symbol of national pride. The Ambassador also conducted an interactive quiz reinforcing key points from his presentation, with prizes awarded to attentive listeners.
The warm atmosphere was enhanced by traditional Turkmen cuisine, including aromatic pilaf and national snacks, which facilitated informal networking among attendees.
The conference drew participants from various fields, including students, researchers, diplomats, and media professionals, reflecting a shared commitment to peace, trust, and international cooperation. KU Leuven continues to stand as a vital platform for significant discussions, having hosted influential figures such as Pope Francis and German Chancellor Angela Merkel over the years.
The success of the Peace Conference underscores the relevance of Turkmenistan’s neutral policies in promoting global dialogue and collective efforts toward a peaceful future. Ambassador Palvanov concluded with an inspiring call to action: "Choose peace. Live in peace. Become a bridge between peoples," emphasizing the universal value of peace that unites diverse global communities.
As the event concluded, it became clear that the quest for peace and mutual understanding transcends borders, resonating with people from all walks of life, and reaffirming the necessity for ongoing dialogue in building a safer and more harmonious world.
