On 2 September, a High-Level Forum on the implementation of the Programme of Action for the Promotion of a Culture of Peace was held at UN Headquarters in New York, chaired by Annalena Baerbock. Vepa Hajiyev, Permanent Representative of Turkmenistan to the UN, spoke on behalf of the Group of Friends of Neutrality in the Interest of Peace, Security and Sustainable Development, according to the news agency Orient, citing the press service of the Permanent Mission of Turkmenistan to the UN.

According to the source, Vepa Hajiev outlined an approach to the role of inclusive diplomacy and institutional neutrality in a context of geopolitical polarisation, conflicts and declining levels of trust.

In his address, he highlighted the link between a culture of peace and the principles of a neutral policy. Referring to UN General Assembly Resolution 80/262, the diplomat emphasised that neutrality can serve as a tool for dialogue and mediation.

Particular attention was paid to the participation of women in preventive diplomacy and conflict prevention. In light of UN General Assembly Resolution 80/294, Turkmenistan, on behalf of the Group of Friends, called for the role of women as negotiators and decision-makers to be expanded.

The need to support women’s peacekeeping networks, to involve local communities in identifying social tensions, and to develop educational programmes was also highlighted.