This year, Turkmenistan marks two major milestones: 34 years of independence and 30 years of permanent neutrality.
Dr. Faryal Leghari, Ambassador of the Islamic Republic of Pakistan to Turkmenistan, has given an interview on the eve of these significant anniversaries, The Caspian Post reports via Turkmen media.
Although she arrived in Ashgabat only a few months ago, Ambassador Leghari has already embraced the local culture and feels right at home. The conversation covered the current state and promising future of the Turkmenistan-Pakistan relations.
- Madam Ambassador, you have been in Turkmenistan for a short time. How do you find Ashgabat, and what are your impressions of your meetings with Turkmenistan’s leadership?
- It is a great honor to serve in Turkmenistan-this is my first diplomatic mission-and I already feel warmly welcomed here. I have been privileged to meet with President Serdar Berdimuhamedov, Foreign Minister Rashid Meredov, and Speaker of the Mejlis, Dunyagozel Gulmanova. In every encounter, I experienced genuine hospitality and saw a clear, forward-thinking vision from the country's leadership.
I was especially inspired by the recent speech of the National Leader and Chairman of the Halk Maslakhaty, Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov, during the inauguration of the International University of Industrialists and Entrepreneurs. He invited diplomats to propose ideas for celebrating Turkmenistan’s neutrality anniversary. Given his emphasis on education and youth, I suggested- and would like to reiterate-organizing lectures and discussions at universities and cultural centers on subjects like literature, culture, art, peace, international relations, equestrianism, and women’s empowerment. I believe this would be a meaningful personal contribution.
- Looking back, how would you describe the historical development of relations between Pakistan and Turkmenistan?
- Our partnership has a truly unique history. Pakistan was the second country to recognize Turkmenistan’s independence in 1992. Notably, it was in Islamabad, at the 1995 ECO summit, that Turkmenistan first declared its permanent neutrality to the international community. Our ties have since been strengthened by numerous high-level visits-19 from Pakistan’s heads of state and government and four from Turkmenistan’s leadership. We eagerly anticipate the upcoming visit of our Prime Minister, Shahbaz Sharif, who will attend a high-level forum in Ashgabat dedicated to the International Year of Peace and Trust.
- Beyond bilateral ties, how do Pakistan and Turkmenistan collaborate on the international stage?
- Our countries are active members of the UN, SCO, ECO, and the Organization of Islamic Cooperation, consistently supporting each other. For example, Turkmenistan endorsed Pakistan’s bid for a seat on the UN Security Council for 2025-2026, while Pakistan backs Turkmenistan’s candidacies for key UN councils and commissions. This mutual support underscores the strength and reliability of our partnership.
- Turning to economic cooperation, what potential do you see, especially with projects like the TAPI gas pipeline?
- Both nations recognize the vast potential within our economic and energy sectors. Initiatives such as the TAPI gas pipeline and the TAP energy project are critical in bringing us closer. Turkmenistan’s strategic energy resources and regional leadership are highly valued, and we believe that through dialogue and cooperation, we can overcome challenges amid evolving geopolitical landscapes.
- What other opportunities for cooperation do you foresee?
- Enhancing transport connectivity is a top priority. We have proposed new trade routes linking Turkmenistan to Pakistan, providing access to regional and global markets through the ports of Karachi and Gwadar. Pakistan’s world-class logistics and infrastructure companies could play a significant role in strengthening bilateral and regional ties, especially via Afghanistan, creating the shortest overland route to the Arabian Sea.
Resuming direct air travel would also open vast opportunities for trade, tourism-including medical tourism-and cultural exchange. Imagine how much faster fresh produce like mangoes and citrus fruits could reach their destinations!
We’ve already made strides in business facilitation, with Pakistani business visas for Turkmen entrepreneurs now processed within 24 hours. In trade, textiles remain vital: Turkmen cotton, yarn, and wool can be exported to Pakistan, while Pakistani textiles and clothing have a strong market potential in Turkmenistan.
Institutional cooperation is well-established through numerous memoranda of understanding, with additional agreements on trade, multimodal logistics (including seaports), culture, education, and tourism currently under development.
- Could you elaborate on some specific areas of cooperation?
- Pakistan deeply values Turkmenistan’s trust in our military training programs, having trained 386 Turkmen military personnel so far. There is vast potential for expanding cooperation in border security training, countering drug trafficking, combating terrorism, and intelligence sharing. In today’s world, where non-state actors exploit digital spaces, such collaboration is vital.
Our universities, medical institutions, and vocational centers are ready to welcome Turkmen youth, with scholarships and bilingual programs on offer.
Culturally, we share much in common. I envision collaborations between our fashion designers and joint cultural events. In sports, too, we can learn from each other: Pakistan is known worldwide for its soccer balls used in the FIFA World Cup, while Turkmenistan’s Akhal-Teke horses are legendary. Joint polo and equestrian competitions could become a celebrated tradition.
- What is your key message and hope for the future of our countries?
- I am deeply optimistic about the future of our bilateral relations. As my country’s leadership often says, “There are no limits to the partnership between Pakistan and Turkmenistan.” I sincerely look forward to welcoming President Serdar Berdimuhamedov and National Leader and Chairman of the Khalk Maslakhaty Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov to Pakistan soon- a country we warmly consider their second home. Together, let us continue to strengthen our friendship, especially during this landmark year.
The interview with Ambassador Dr. Faryal Leghari highlighted the profound historical ties and shared strategic interests binding Turkmenistan and Pakistan. The candid conversation made clear that the partnership extends well beyond politics and economics, encompassing vital sectors such as culture, education, sports, and security. The Ambassador’s practical and thoughtful proposals reflect Pakistan’s strong commitment to deepening cooperation and inspire confidence in the enduring and promising future of this friendly relationship.
