The Hankuk University of Foreign Studies (HUFS) in Seoul, Republic of Korea, hosted an international conference titled "Independent, Permanently Neutral Turkmenistan — Home of Prosperity as Swift as a Stallion," dedicated to the 35th anniversary of Turkmenistan's Independence and the year's motto for 2026. Organized by the Embassy of Turkmenistan, the event served as a platform for high-level diplomatic, academic, and cultural exchange between the two nations.

Ambassador Begench Durdyyew delivered an opening speech highlighting Turkmenistan’s political, economic, and cultural milestones achieved during the years of independence. He emphasized the global significance of Turkmenistan's permanent neutrality and its role in fostering international peace. A centerpiece of the session was the introduction of President Serdar Berdimuhamedov’s new book, "Neutrality of Turkmenistan — A Bright Path of Peace and Trust," which offers a comprehensive look at the nation's foreign policy philosophy.

The discussions noted the unique cultural synergy between the two countries, as Turkmenistan's "Year of the Stallion" aligns with the Korean "Year of the Fire Horse" (Byeong-o). Mr. Ri Jong-kuk, Executive Director of the Secretariat of the "Central Asia-Republic of Korea" Cooperation Forum, praised Turkmenistan’s peaceful initiatives. He further discussed the upcoming inaugural "Central Asia – Republic of Korea" Summit scheduled for September, describing it as a historic milestone for regional integration and strategic partnership.

The conference also featured a vibrant exhibition of Turkmen folk arts, showcasing intricate carpets, traditional jewelry, and historical artifacts. Guests were invited to experience Turkmen hospitality firsthand through a tasting of national cuisine. This event at HUFS significantly contributed to the strengthening of educational cooperation and cultural diplomacy, fostering deeper mutual understanding and friendship between the youth and academic communities of Turkmenistan and South Korea.