British diplomats played a key role in drafting the landmark UN resolution recognizing Turkmenistan's permanent neutrality in 1995, according to British Ambassador to Turkmenistan Stephen Conlon, as quoted by the “Neutral Turkmenistan” newspaper.
“I was pleased to hear recently that British diplomats in New York played a vital role in drafting this historic resolution, working with their Turkmen counterparts to ensure its successful adoption,” the diplomat noted.
According to him, Turkmenistan proudly celebrates the 30th anniversary of its permanent neutrality – a fundamental principle of its foreign policy and national identity. The UN resolution on neutrality was a remarkable achievement for the young independent state, ensuring universal recognition and guarantees of sovereignty and security.
Conlon emphasized that joint efforts led to unprecedented recognition: the UN called on all states to respect Turkmenistan's independence, territorial integrity, and neutral status. This status was reaffirmed in 2015 and 2025.
"For three decades, neutrality has allowed Ashgabat to act as an impartial mediator and host negotiations on peace initiatives under the auspices of the UN, strengthening Turkmenistan's role as a reliable partner in ensuring regional stability," the ambassador stated.
International Neutrality Day is celebrated annually on December 12.
"On behalf of the United Kingdom, I am proud to note our support for Turkmenistan's path to neutrality. We congratulate the people and leadership of Turkmenistan on this significant milestone and look forward to a continued partnership based on mutual respect and shared values," Stephen Conlon emphasized.
