In 2025, the United Nations (UN) celebrates the 80th anniversary of its founding. To mark this significant date, Turkmenistan held a series of events aimed at strengthening peace, cooperation and good neighborly relations.
The culmination of these events was the festive concert “Music of Peace and Hope,” organized by the UN Office in Turkmenistan with the support of the country’s Ministry of Culture.
Before the concert began, a photo exhibition was unveiled in the building of the Magtymguly National Music and Drama Theatre, showcasing the activities of UN specialized agencies in Turkmenistan. The displayed photographs vividly illustrated achievements in healthcare, education, combating climate change, gender equality, and social inclusion, reflecting the results of long-term cooperation between the UN and Turkmenistan in implementing the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
The audience was welcomed by Dmitry Shlapachenko, UN Resident Coordinator in Turkmenistan:
“This evening we have gathered not only to enjoy the beauty of music, but also to reflect on the timeless values that unite us — human dignity, equality and solidarity. These are the values that have guided the United Nations since its founding in 1945, and they continue to inspire us in our work here in Turkmenistan and around the world.”
Dmitry Shlapachenko expressed gratitude to the Government of Turkmenistan, the Ministry of Culture, the diplomatic community, public organizations, and colleagues from UN agencies — UNDP, UNICEF, WHO, UNFPA, IOM, UNODC, ILO, and others — for their joint efforts in promoting the SDGs, inclusivity, and peace.
On behalf of the Government of Turkmenistan, Minister of Culture Atageldi Shamyradov delivered a message of partnership and continued cooperation with the United Nations.
The concert program brought together outstanding works that have become symbols of humanism, unity and faith in a better future. The evening opened with the State Symphony Orchestra conducted by Honored Artist of Turkmenistan Resul Gylyjov. The children’s choir and soloists — Mansur Sharipov, Dovran Shammyyev, Maysa Niyazova, Munisa Hudaybergenova, and Asel Ruslanova — performed the well-known song “Heal the World.”
The evening continued with “The Song of Peace” by composer Jeren Gurbangylyjova, “What a Wonderful World,” “May There Always Be Sunshine,” and “Lullaby,” which has become UNICEF’s anthem.
The State Choir of Turkmenistan performed pieces embodying faith in kindness and harmony. A unity of music and gesture was demonstrated by soloists performing together with a sign language group. The evening concluded with the legendary composition “We Are the World,” symbolizing the unity and friendship of nations.
The concert “Music of Peace and Hope” clearly demonstrated the fundamental foreign policy strategy of Turkmenistan. Consistently implementing the concept of positive neutrality — widely recognized by the international community — Turkmenistan reaffirms its status as a neutral state, a status three times endorsed by the UN General Assembly. This year marks the 30th anniversary of the adoption of that status.
Our country makes a significant contribution to the development of international cooperation aimed at ensuring universal well-being and achieving the Sustainable Development Goals. A vivid example of this is Turkmenistan’s constructive initiatives within the UN framework, including the proposal to proclaim 2025 as the “International Year of Peace and Trust.”
