Ashgabat: On the sidelines of the International Forum on Peace and Trust in Ashgabat, President of Iran, Masoud Pezeshkian, and Chairman of the Halk Maslahaty of Turkmenistan, Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov, convened to explore avenues for expanding bilateral cooperation in areas of shared interest, including trade, culture, and regional security.
According to Trend News Agency, President Pezeshkian emphasized the need to enhance communication and cooperation between the two nations. He highlighted the importance of Turkmenistan’s vision, which focuses on building trust and fostering peace, as an essential contribution to the international community. He expressed hope that Turkmenistan’s constructive approach would resonate throughout the region, promoting greater security and stability.
President Pezeshkian reiterated Iran’s commitment to bolstering communication and cooperation with Turkmenistan, especially in the realm of regional security. Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov, in turn, expressed gratitude for President Pezeshkian’s participation in the forum and for Iran’s support of Turkmenistan’s initiatives. He warmly welcomed the Iranian President to Ashgabat, considering him a close neighbor, brother, and friend, and expressing delight in hosting him in what he termed as his second home.
The leaders highlighted the significance of ongoing dialogue and mutually agreed to further deepen the partnership between their nations. The International Forum, commemorating the 30th anniversary of Turkmenistan’s permanent neutrality, is currently underway in Ashgabat. The event also marks the International Day of Neutrality and the declaration of 2025 as the “International Year of Peace and Trust.” The forum has attracted high-level delegations from across the globe, including the Presidents of Russia, Trkiye, Iran, Pakistan, Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, and Armenia, as well as the Prime Ministers of Azerbaijan and Georgia. Representatives from various international and regional organizations are also in attendance.
Turkmenistan’s commitment to neutrality was officially recognized on December 12, 1995, through a resolution adopted by the United Nations General Assembly. This date has since been established as Turkmenistan’s Permanent Neutrality Day, observed annually to honor the country’s stance in global diplomacy.