The first consultative meeting on the implementation of the ambitious Action Plan for 2026, which will serve as the starting point for preparations for the Year of International Law, was held in Ashgabat. President Serdar Berdimuhamedov's initiative, announced at the 80th session of the UN General Assembly, is taking shape and reaching interagency levels.
Ashgabat, February 18 | ORIENT. Turkmenistan is once again acting as a peacebuilding architect. While 2025 was marked by Peace and Trust, 2028 is destined to be the culmination of the country's efforts to strengthen the legal foundations of international coexistence. Two years before this significant date, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Turkmenistan has launched a systematic effort integrating diplomacy, science, and education.
Five Pillars of the Legal Initiative
The approved Action Plan for 2026 is not just a bureaucratic document, but a comprehensive strategy divided into five key areas:
- Institutional Foundation: Creating organizational mechanisms to coordinate the efforts of ministries and agencies.
- Research and Practice: Holding conferences that will serve as platforms for developing new approaches to resolving global disputes.
- Educational Aspect: Educational initiatives aimed at nurturing a new generation of international lawyers.
- Global Reach: Conducting bilateral and multilateral meetings to align the international agenda with legal principles.
- Youth Focus: Supporting young scholars who see the future of the world in the legal field.
Neutrality as a Legal Instrument
Special attention at the meeting was given to unlocking the potential of Turkmenistan's permanent neutrality. In today's reality, this status is viewed not simply as a political position, but as a unique political and legal instrument. Ashgabat proposes using neutrality as an impartial platform for mediation and strengthening global peace, where international law is the sole and indisputable arbiter.
Digital and Information Support
Preparations will be as open as possible: a dedicated section will be created on the website of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Turkmenistan, and outreach efforts will reach not only national but also leading international media. This is an important signal to the international community that Turkmenistan is ready to play an active role in the discussion about the future of the world order.
