OPENING CEREMONY OF THE SECOND REGIONAL TRAINING FOR YOUNG DIPLOMATS OF CENTRAL ASIA WAS HELD
On March 9, 2026, the Institute of International Relations of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Turkmenistan hosted the opening ceremony of the second regional training for young diplomats of Central Asian countries. The Office of the UN Resident Coordinator in Turkmenistan organized the event in close cooperation with the country’s foreign policy agency. Representatives of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Turkmenistan, heads of diplomatic missions and international organizations, young diplomats and civil servants from the region, as well as faculty members and students of the Institute and other universities of the country attended the ceremony.
The opening session featured remarks by Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs of Turkmenistan M. Bashimova, UN Resident Coordinator in Turkmenistan D. Shlapachenko, Special Representative of the UN Secretary-General and Head of the UN Regional Centre for Preventive Diplomacy for Central Asia K. Imnadze, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Italian Republic L. Ferrari, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland S. Conlon, and a representative of UNFPA.
Speakers highlighted that Turkmenistan's foreign policy, based on the principles of permanent Neutrality, is recognized by the international community as an effective instrument for ensuring peace, security, and stability at both regional and global levels. It was emphasized that the principles of Turkmenistan’s Neutrality fully align with the fundamental values and goals of the United Nations. Furthermore, it was noted that regional UN projects aimed at advancing youth policy are currently being successfully implemented in the country.
The primary objective of this training is to enrich cooperation between young diplomats and civil servants of the region with new substance and to stimulate professional dialogue. The program covers an in-depth study of UN working methodologies, issues related to preventive diplomacy, and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
In conclusion, the participants expressed their gratitude to the National Leader of the Turkmen people, Chairman of the Halk Maslahaty of Turkmenistan Hero-Arkadag, and the esteemed President Arkadagly Hero Serdar for creating extensive opportunities for young people to receive quality education, enhance their professional skills, and realize their potential on the international stage.
Hemragylych NURMAMMEDOV,
Instructor of the Department of World Languages
of the Institute of International Relations
of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Turkmenistan.