The International Conference in Ashgabat on March 19, 2025, emphasized the critical role of interregional economic cooperation in sustainable development. Key participants included government officials, diplomats, and representatives from various sectors. Turkmenistan’s commitment to promoting mutual trust and cooperation was highlighted, along with significant energy and infrastructure projects that connect Central and South Asia. A Final Document was adopted, reflecting the conference’s outcomes and commitments to enhanced collaboration.
On March 19, 2025, the Chamber of Commerce and Industry of Turkmenistan hosted the International Conference titled “International Year of Peace and Trust: the Role of Interregional Economic Cooperation in Ensuring Sustainable Development”. This significant event attracted a broad audience, including government officials, diplomats, and representatives from international organizations, the public and private sectors, as well as university leaders and media from across the globe, gathering in Ashgabat.
The conference commenced with a congratulatory message from the President of Turkmenistan, Serdar Berdimuhamedov, which was received with great attention. Subsequently, National Leader Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov addressed the participants, emphasizing the foundational principles of economic partnerships, namely peace, trust, equality, and mutual benefit. He outlined that successful economic, infrastructure, trade, and investment projects rely on these guiding principles.
Hero-Arkadag highlighted the necessity for global thinking and cooperation, assigning special responsibility to international financial institutions. He reiterated Turkmenistan’s commitment to a fair geo-economy, advocating for the diversification of energy resources and the creation of new economic projects. A notable mention was made of the cooperation between Central and South Asia as an example of this vision.
The discussion shifted towards the geopolitical and geoeconomic significance of the ongoing energy, transport, and infrastructure projects in Central and South Asia that aim to connect these regions through new corridors. In closing his remarks, Hero-Arkadag expressed wishes for a productive conference.
The conference transitioned into thematic sessions addressing topics such as the significance of the Turkmenistan – Afghanistan – Pakistan – India gas pipeline and transport connectivity projects in Central and South Asia. Participants explored the current state and future prospects for cooperation across various sectors, including energy and agriculture.
There was a notable acknowledgment of Turkmenistan’s pivotal role in fostering interregional economic cooperation grounded in mutual respect. Large-scale energy and transport projects initiated by Turkmenistan were underscored as vital initiatives.
The conference also facilitated discussions regarding the enhancement of trade, economic, and investment collaborations among nations, accentuating the historical importance of the Central Asian region, once traversed by the Great Silk Road. As a result of the conference, a Final Document was adopted, and an Address to President Serdar Berdimuhamedov was endorsed by the participants.
Following the conference, foreign attendees engaged in bilateral meetings with Turkmen counterparts across relevant ministries and departments to further their discussions.
The International Conference convened in Ashgabat underscored the vital role of interregional economic cooperation in fostering sustainable development. Key themes included the principles of equality and mutual trust in economic partnerships, the significance of energy and transport projects, and the importance of collective action in addressing geopolitical challenges. The event concluded with actionable commitments towards enhancing economic collaboration among participating nations, facilitated by formal exchanges and the adoption of a Final Document.
Original Source: turkmenistan.gov.tm
