Press Release

Closing Ceremony Marks Successful Completion of the Training for Young Diplomats of Central Asia

13 March 2026

Ashgabat, Turkmenistan — 13 March 2026: The United Nations Resident Coordinator’s Office in Turkmenistan, together with the Government of Turkmenistan and with support from the Governments of Italy and the United Kingdom and Northen Ireland, concluded today the Second Training for Young Diplomats of Central Asia — a five-day capacity building programme aimed at strengthening the skills, knowledge, and regional networks of early career diplomats from Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Uzbekistan, and Turkmenistan. The training prominently featured a set of modules conducted by Resident Coordinators of Central Asia and representatives of UNFPA, UNDP, WHO, UNICEF, OHCHR, UNRCCA and EBRD.

Over the course of the week, participants engaged in a rich combination of theoretical lectures, simulation exercises, interactive workshops, and facilitated discussions, designed to deepen their understanding of the United Nations style diplomacy, international cooperation, and the work of the United Nations.

The programme featured distinguished international experts, including Sir Ivor Roberts, former UK Ambassador and former President of Trinity College, Oxford, who delivered sessions on Diplomatic Protocol and Diplomatic Etiquette; Mr. Antonios Tzanakopoulos, Professor of Public International Law at the University of Oxford, who led discussions on International Law and the International Legal System.

A central objective of the training was to foster long-lasting professional relationships among young diplomats across Central Asia. Through shared learning, group exercises, and regional dialogue, participants strengthened networks that will contribute to more effective cooperation and enhanced diplomatic engagement in the years ahead.

The final module of the training was titled “The Art of Diplomacy,” featuring the Ambassadors of Uzbekistan, Kazakhstan, Tajikistan, Kyrgyzstan, Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs of Turkmenistan and Executive Secretary of the National Commission of Turkmenistan for UNESCO. The speakers shared personal reflections from their diplomatic careers, highlighting the values of integrity, perseverance, cultural understanding, and service. They also underscored the critical role of young diplomats in advancing regional stability, cooperation, and sustainable development.

This initiative is part of a broader commitment by the United Nations and its partners to invest in the next generation of young leaders. By equipping young professionals with practical tools, analytical skills, and opportunities for regional dialogue, the training contributes to a more interconnected, informed, and resilient diplomatic community across Central Asia.