During the XVI BRICS Summit, President of Turkmenistan Serdar Berdimuhamedov held a substantive meeting with United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres. This dialogue, held in a spirit of cooperation, focused on the current state and future prospects of the strategic and constructive relationship between Turkmenistan and the United Nations.
President Berdimuhamedov congratulated Secretary-General Guterres on United Nations Day, expressing confidence that their discussions would provide new momentum to the enduring partnership between Turkmenistan and the UN. The Secretary-General extended his gratitude for the warm welcome he received during his visit to Ashgabat earlier this year and expressed his best wishes to the National Leader of the Turkmen people, Chairman of the Halk Maslahaty for his leadership in establishing a peaceful foreign policy rooted in principles of openness and active international cooperation.
Both sides acknowledged the importance of Turkmenistan’s policy of positive neutrality, recognized by the international community and enshrined in the country’s Constitution. As a neutral state, Turkmenistan continues to expand its global relationships and partnerships with leading international organizations, including the UN. President Berdimuhamedov highlighted that multi-faceted cooperation with the United Nations remains a priority for Turkmenistan, which fully supports global initiatives for peace, security, and sustainable development under the UN’s leadership.
During the meeting, discussions focused on expanding cooperation in priority areas. The talks underscored Turkmenistan’s active role in the international arena, supporting strong relationships with UN agencies, particularly in areas like environmental protection. President Berdimuhamedov reaffirmed Turkmenistan’s commitment to close cooperation in ecological matters, emphasizing the country’s adherence to key UN environmental conventions.
The meeting also highlighted Turkmenistan’s role as a reliable long-term partner for the UN in Central Asia—a region experiencing rapid development. Regional countries are committed to multilateral cooperation to ensure global peace and achieve the Sustainable Development Goals. The UN Regional Centre for Preventive Diplomacy for Central Asia has been instrumental in these efforts, working towards specific regional objectives.
Additionally, the two leaders discussed health cooperation as a critical area of engagement. Turkmenistan’s long-standing collaboration with the World Health Organization (WHO) was acknowledged, particularly in promoting public health, sports, and improved medical services – a dedication praised by the UN.
President Berdimuhamedov reiterated Turkmenistan’s commitment to further expanding constructive dialogue with the UN based on mutual respect and long-term partnership. Secretary-General Guterres emphasized that Turkmenistan remains a key partner for the UN in advancing global peace, security, and sustainable development.