Geneva Debate: the international dimension of neutrality and global stability
Today, a major debate was held in Geneva, Switzerland, organized by the Geneva Centre for Security Policy (GCSP), the Permanent Mission of Turkmenistan to the UN Agencies in Geneva and the Geneva Centre for Neutrality.
The theme of the event – “The International Dimension of Neutrality” – was not only timely, but also deeply relevant in light of the growing turbulence in international relations. Participants discussed how the principles of neutrality can contribute to strengthening peace, security and mutual understanding in an era of increasing geopolitical fragmentation.
The experience of Turkmenistan, a country that has demonstrated for three decades that neutrality can be not just a formal status, but a strategic resource in global diplomacy, attracted particular attention during the debate.
Turkmenistan's neutrality is an active strategy, not detachment
Vepa Khadzhiev, Permanent Representative of Turkmenistan to the UN Offices in Geneva and Ambassador to Switzerland, emphasized in his speech that Turkmenistan's neutrality is not a symbolic or passive state, but a conscious choice based on an active foreign policy agenda.
Khadzhiev's speech set the tone for the entire discussion, identifying neutrality as a pragmatic platform for inclusive dialogue and constructive international interaction. He noted that in the context of global challenges, there is a growing need for behavior models that promote trust and multilateralism, and Turkmenistan's neutrality meets these requirements.
On the eve of the 30th anniversary of international recognition of its neutral status, Turkmenistan presented to the international community a comprehensive and long-term strategy based on openness, respect for the sovereignty of other states and readiness to cooperate with all interested partners.
Positive neutrality – the Turkmen concept of global interaction
One of the central topics of the debate was the presentation of the concept of "Positive Neutrality" developed by Turkmenistan. This model was presented by Director of the Center for Strategic Studies of the Institute of International Relations of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Turkmenistan Shiri Shiriev, who described it as an alternative to passive non-interference.
According to him, positive neutrality includes active participation in peacekeeping initiatives, transregional projects and humanitarian activities. The speaker rightly focused on initiatives such as TAPI – an infrastructure project that contributes not only to energy security, but also to the political stabilization of the region.
The expert's speech aroused keen interest and support from the debate participants, as it showed how neutrality can be a dynamic tool for conflict resolution and building long-term partnerships outside the framework of military-political blocs.
Neutrality as a practical tool - lessons and examples
In practical terms, Turkmenistan's neutrality is demonstrated through active participation in international negotiations, humanitarian missions and peace initiatives. It is enough to recall the experience of aiding Afghanistan in the late 1990s, when Turkmenistan kept humanitarian corridors open even in the conditions of regional tension. This example was perceived as confirmation of the true content of Turkmen neutrality.
Of particular value is Turkmenistan's contribution to resolving legal issues, such as the legal status of the Caspian Sea. Thanks to the diplomatic balance based on the principles of neutrality, a historical consensus was reached between the five Caspian countries.
Turkmenistan demonstrates that neutrality is not only a political principle, but also a practical tool for peace, support and stability, Shiriyev said. Neutrality provides flexibility for creating long-term and sustainable partnerships that go beyond short-term political interests.
The discussion participants noted that Turkmenistan’s experience can be adapted by other countries striving for strategic autonomy and a balanced foreign policy.
International Year of Peace and Trust – a global benchmark
Concluding his speech, the speaker drew attention to the initiative of President of Turkmenistan Serdar Berdimuhamedov to proclaim 2025 the International Year of Peace and Trust.
This proposal was perceived as a reflection of the country's desire to promote the formation of a new international order based on mutual respect, trust and consensus.
The ideas and initiatives voiced were met with recognition that the concept of Turkmenistan's neutrality goes far beyond regional significance and can be offered to the world as a universal diplomatic resource.
Geneva Debates as a contribution to rethinking global diplomacy
The Geneva Debates became a significant stage in the development of a global understanding of the role of neutrality in international relations. Experts agreed that neutrality, when filled with specific content and institutional implementation, can become a model of stability and predictability in an unpredictable world.
The experience of Turkmenistan was highly praised by the participants of the debates as a model of constructive, proactive and pragmatic diplomacy. The presented Turkmen concept of neutrality can become an important reference point for other countries seeking to maintain their strategic autonomy and strengthen international cooperation.
This model not only emphasizes the value of non-interference, but also offers a real way to strengthen international trust, which is especially relevant in the context of global challenges and changes.
Bekdurdy AMANSARYEV,
Center for Strategic Studies of the Institute of International Relations
of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Turkmenistan