NEUTRALITY & STABILITY

OVERVIEW

 

Turkmenistan, located in Central Asia, has a unique position both geographically and politically. Since gaining independence from the Soviet Union in 1991, Turkmenistan has pursued a foreign policy characterized by neutrality, peaceful coexistence, and regional cooperation. This strategy has shaped its relationships with neighboring countries and its participation in international organizations, underpinning Turkmenistan's efforts to maintain stability and foster development in the region. One of the defining features of Turkmenistan’s foreign policy is its status as a permanently neutral state. This status was officially recognized by the United Nations in 1995. Turkmenistan's neutrality means it refrains from joining military alliances or blocs and avoids participating in military conflicts. This policy aims to ensure the country’s sovereignty, security, and the ability to maintain peaceful and balanced relationships with all nations.

 

BILATERAL RELATIONS

 

Uzbekistan: Turkmenistan shares a long border with Uzbekistan, and the two countries have a long history of cooperation and mutual support. Their relationship is characterized by economic and cultural exchanges. Key areas of cooperation include energy, transportation, and water resource management. Both countries are part of regional initiatives aimed at enhancing connectivity and trade, such as the Central Asia Regional Economic Cooperation (CAREC) Program.

 

Kazakhstan: Turkmenistan and Kazakhstan have strong bilateral ties, bolstered by their shared history and cultural similarities. The two nations cooperate in various sectors, including energy, agriculture, and transportation. The Kazakhstan-Turkmenistan-Iran railway, inaugurated in 2014, is a significant project that enhances regional connectivity and trade, providing a direct link between Central Asia and the Persian Gulf.

Iran: The relationship between Turkmenistan and Iran is crucial, particularly in terms of energy and trade. Iran is a significant partner for Turkmenistan’s natural gas exports. The two countries have collaborated on various infrastructure projects, including pipelines and road networks, to facilitate trade and energy transit. Despite some disputes over pricing and supply volumes, the economic ties between the two countries remain strong.

 

Afghanistan: Turkmenistan has played a vital role in supporting Afghanistan’s reconstruction and development efforts. The country provides humanitarian aid and participates in infrastructure projects, such as the Turkmenistan-Afghanistan-Pakistan-India (TAPI) gas pipeline. Turkmenistan’s neutral stance and its emphasis on economic cooperation have helped it maintain a positive relationship with Afghanistan, contributing to regional stability.

 

Russia: As a former Soviet republic, Turkmenistan has maintained a complex but generally stable relationship with Russia. While Turkmenistan pursues an independent foreign policy, it engages with Russia on economic and security matters. Energy exports are a significant aspect of their bilateral relationship, with Turkmenistan supplying natural gas to Russia. The countries also collaborate within the framework of the Commonwealth of Independent States (CIS).

 

INTERNATIONAL ORGANIZATIONS

 

United Nations: Turkmenistan is an active member of the United Nations and its specialized agencies. The country’s neutrality policy has been endorsed by the UN, and it plays a proactive role in promoting regional peace and security. Turkmenistan regularly hosts international conferences under the UN framework, focusing on issues such as disarmament, sustainable development, and regional cooperation.

 

Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe (OSCE): Turkmenistan's engagement with the OSCE is centered around promoting security, economic cooperation, and human rights. The OSCE Center in Ashgabat works on projects related to border management, countering terrorism, and fostering economic development. Turkmenistan’s cooperation with the OSCE reflects its commitment to regional stability and security.

 

Economic Cooperation Organization (ECO): Turkmenistan is a founding member of the Economic Cooperation Organization, which aims to promote economic, technical, and cultural cooperation among member states. The ECO provides a platform for Turkmenistan to engage in regional trade initiatives and infrastructure projects, contributing to economic growth and integration in Central Asia and beyond.

 

Commonwealth of Independent States (CIS): Although Turkmenistan is an associate member of the CIS, it selectively participates in its activities of the commonwealth. The country engages in economic and cultural initiatives that align with its national interests. Turkmenistan’s involvement in the CIS allows it to maintain connections with other former Soviet republics while preserving its neutral stance.

 

Non-Aligned Movement (NAM): Turkmenistan’s foreign policy aligns with the principles of the Non-Aligned Movement, which advocates for independence and sovereignty free from major power blocs. As a member of NAM, Turkmenistan emphasizes its commitment to peaceful coexistence, international cooperation, and development.

 

ECONOMIC DIPLOMACY AND ENERGY POLICY

 

Turkmenistan’s vast natural gas reserves are central to the state's economic diplomacy. The country uses its energy resources as a tool for building international partnerships and securing economic benefits. Key initiatives include:

 

TAPI Pipeline: The Turkmenistan-Afghanistan-Pakistan-India gas pipeline is a landmark project aimed at enhancing regional energy security and economic cooperation. The pipeline is expected to transport Turkmen gas to South Asia, fostering economic interdependence and development.

 

China-Turkmenistan Gas Cooperation: Turkmenistan is a major supplier of natural gas to China, with several pipelines linking the two countries. This partnership has significantly boosted Turkmenistan’s economy and diversified its export markets.

 

Caspian Sea Agreements: Turkmenistan actively participates in negotiations regarding the legal status of the Caspian Sea, which impact regional energy and environmental policies. Agreements among Caspian littoral states facilitate the exploration and export of energy resources, benefiting Turkmenistan’s economy.

 

Humanitarian and Cultural Diplomacy: Turkmenistan also focuses on humanitarian and cultural diplomacy to strengthen its international standing. The country provides humanitarian aid to neighboring countries, participates in global cultural exchanges, and promotes Turkmen culture abroad. Initiatives such as the construction of hospitals, schools, and cultural centers in other countries enhance Turkmenistan’s influence and foster goodwill.

 

EUROPEAN UNION

 

The European Union (EU) represents a significant opportunity for Turkmenistan in terms of economic diversification, modernization, and integration into the global economy. Strengthening relations with the EU can bring crucial investments, technological advancements, and market access that could significantly benefit Turkmenistan's development goals.

 

Turkmenistan’s economy is heavily reliant on natural gas exports, primarily to China, Russia, and Iran. While these partnerships are vital, diversifying its economic base is crucial for Turkmenistan to mitigate the risks associated with fluctuations in global energy prices and demand. The European Union, with its robust economy and advanced industrial base, offers a promising avenue for such diversification. The EU has a keen interest in diversifying its energy sources to reduce dependency on Russian gas. Turkmenistan, with its vast natural gas reserves, is a potential supplier to Europe. Investments from European companies in Turkmenistan’s energy infrastructure could enhance gas extraction and transportation capabilities. Beyond fossil fuels, the EU is a leader in renewable energy technologies. Collaborating with European partners could help Turkmenistan develop its renewable energy sector, leveraging solar and wind resources. This would not only diversify the energy mix but also align with global sustainability goals.

 

European investments can significantly contribute to the modernization of Turkmenistan’s infrastructure. This includes transportation networks, telecommunications, and urban development projects. Enhanced infrastructure will facilitate better connectivity within the country and with international markets, boosting trade and economic activities. The EU's advanced agricultural technologies and practices can transform Turkmenistan's agricultural sector. Investments in irrigation systems, high-yield crops, and sustainable farming practices can increase productivity and food security, making agriculture's contribution to the economy more meaningful.

 

Establishing stronger trade relations with the EU would provide Turkmenistan access to a vast and affluent market. This can boost exports not only of natural gas but also of agricultural products, textiles, and other goods. Compliance with EU standards and regulations will enhance the quality and competitiveness of Turkmen exports, opening up new market opportunities. Negotiating trade agreements with the EU can facilitate smoother trade flows, reduce tariffs, and address non-tariff barriers.