Tariq Saeedi At the World Government Summit in Dubai, Turkmenistan presented a framework that cuts to the heart of contemporary international relations: the world has become reactive when it must be preventive, fragmented when it must be unified, and uncertain when it must be predictable. Foreign Minister Rashid Meredov's four initiatives form not a wishlist but a … [Read more...]
United Nations and Government of Turkmenistan Review 2025 Results and Launch Joint Priorities for 2026–2030
Ashgabat, 3 February 2026 — The Government of Turkmenistan and the United Nations held a Joint Results Groups Meeting today at the UN House to review progress achieved under the 2021–2025 UN–Turkmenistan Sustainable Development Cooperation Framework (UNSDCF) and to outline joint priorities for the new Cooperation Framework cycle for 2026–2030. The meeting gathered … [Read more...]
UN and Development Partners in Turkmenistan focus on strengthening collaboration in 2026
On 30 January 2026, the United Nations in Turkmenistan convened the Annual Meeting of the Development Partners Coordination Group (DPCG), bringing together representatives of the Government of Turkmenistan, diplomatic missions, international organizations, and development partners to review progress in 2025 and chart a strengthened path for cooperation in 2026. The … [Read more...]
Food Security: The Foundation of National Strength
Tariq Saeedi National security is commonly understood through the lens of military capability, diplomatic influence, and economic power. Yet underlying all these dimensions is a more fundamental requirement: the ability to feed one's population. Food security—the capacity for sustainable food self-sufficiency—represents not merely an agricultural concern but a cornerstone … [Read more...]
Advancing Peace, Trust, and Sustainable Development: The UN–Turkmenistan Partnership in 2025 – UPDATED VERSION
Dmitry Shlapachenko, UN Resident Coordinator in Turkmenistan In 2025, the partnership between Turkmenistan and the United Nations reached new heights, exemplifying the power of collaboration in advancing peace, trust, and sustainable development. This milestone year saw Turkmenistan successfully host the Third United Nations Conference on Landlocked Developing Countries in … [Read more...]
Building a world of common prosperity through win-win cooperation
CGTN podcast “China is always a builder of world peace, contributor to global development, defender of the international order, and provider of public goods. China will continue to bring the world new opportunities through its new development.” China will bring the world new opportunities through its new development; this was the solemn commitment to the world from … [Read more...]
The Untapped Tech Talent of Central Asia’s Steppes
Tariq Saeedi Every morning across rural Central Asia, a teenager might wake before dawn to track down a wandering camel across miles of steppe, calculate which sections of cropland can be irrigated with the day's limited water supply, or improvise a repair on broken farm machinery using whatever materials are at hand. These aren't the activities we typically associate … [Read more...]
Can green development really bring us together?
About the author: Niu Honglin is a producer and host with CGTN. She is also one of the editors of Stories of Xi Jinping. This article comes from a podcast series I’ve been working on that looks at global governance through a simple but demanding idea: a shared future for humanity. Each episode focuses on one dimension of that question — security, development, cultural … [Read more...]
Women’s Leadership and Peace: Outcomes of the Awaza Conference – Final Document on the Role of Women in Modern Society Published
Turkmen state media have released the text of the Final Document of the International Conference "The Role of Women in Modern Society: Promoting International Cooperation for Sustainable Development," which took place in the Awaza National Tourist Zone on December 10, 2025. In the document, conference participants reaffirmed their commitment to the goals of gender equality … [Read more...]
International Forum in Awaza: Women – the Key Link in Sustainable Development and International Cooperation
Elvira Kadyrova, Raviliya Kadyrova, Liliya Zhirnova On 11 December 2025, in the National Tourist Zone of Awaza of Turkmenistan, the International Conference "The Role of Women in Modern Society: Developing International Cooperation for Sustainable Development" took place. The conference was organized jointly with the United Nations, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, and the … [Read more...]
Women, Diplomacy, and Neutrality: Turkmenistan Hosts International Conference
Elvira Kadyrova at Awaza, Liliya Zhirnova in Ashgabat AVAZA, Turkmenistan — Against the backdrop of the Caspian Sea's turquoise waters, the resort town of Avaza is hosting an international conference that brings together government ministers, foundation leaders, and civil society representatives from across continents. The two-day gathering, focused on "The Role of Women … [Read more...]
Turkmenistan’s Permanent Neutrality: A Strategic Path to Sustainable Development
Tariq Saeedi As Turkmenistan prepares to commemorate the 30th anniversary of its permanent neutrality with an international conference in Ashgabat on 12 December 2025, the world has an opportunity to reassess this unique status not as a passive stance, but as an active strategic choice that creates tangible benefits for humanity and the planet. Far from being a retreat … [Read more...]
UN and Government of Turkmenistan Advance Joint Programmes for Sustainable Development
Ashgabat, 13 November 2025 – The United Nations in Turkmenistan and the Government of Turkmenistan convened a meeting of the Interdepartmental Coordination Commission to discuss and align efforts on joint programmes that will support the country’s national priorities and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The meeting, chaired by Mammetguly Astanagulov, Minister … [Read more...]
From Türkiye to Turkmenistan: Sharing Best Practices for Child Rights
31 October 2025, Ashgabat – The Ombudsman’s Office of Turkmenistan, in partnership with UNICEF, hosted a week-long capacity development training to advance its efforts for promoting and protecting children’s rights. The training sessions, held from 26 to 30 October 2025, focused on enhancing practical approaches in child-sensitive case management, complaint handling, and … [Read more...]
Global Peace, Wellbeing, and Health: Insights from Gallup’s 2025 Report and the Path of Neutrality
nCa Commentary In a world still reeling from pandemics, conflicts, and economic uncertainties, the Gallup organization's latest report, State of the World’s Emotional Health 2025, shines a stark light on how our collective feelings are intertwined with broader issues of peace and health. Based on over 145,000 interviews across 144 countries, the report—released in … [Read more...]
Central Asia: The Quiet Powerhouse Shaping a Stable Future at UNGA
Tariq Saeedi and Elvira Kadyrova As the world gathers for the 80th session of the United Nations General Assembly in New York this September, there's a palpable sense that this meeting carries more weight than many in recent memory. With the theme "Better together: 80 years and more for peace, development, and human rights," it arrives at a time when global cooperation … [Read more...]
TIF 2025 Final Day Opens with Focus on Digital Transformation and Trade
Awaza, 19 September 2025 – The final day of the Turkmenistan Investment Forum (TIF 2025) began today with sessions focused on modernizing the nation's economy through technology and strengthening its position in global trade. The day's agenda opened with "Session 5: Digital and Green Transformations in the Interest of Sustainable Development". Moderated by the Head of the … [Read more...]
TIF 2025: On the Path to Green Energy – Turkmenistan to Convert Four Power Plants to Combined-Cycle Operation
Elvira Kadyrova Awaza, 19 September 2025 – Deputy Minister of Energy of Turkmenistan, Serdar Saparov, addressed a session at the "Investment Forum of Turkmenistan" titled "Digital and Green Transformations for Sustainable Development Interests," highlighting the sector's pivotal role in the country's sustainable growth. Dynamic Sector Growth: From Reliable Supply to … [Read more...]
TIF-2025: Where Vision Meets Investment in a Connected World
Tariq Saeedi in Karachi, Elvira Kadyrova and Raviliya Kadyrova at Awaza As we stand here at the pristine shores of Awaza, watching the Caspian Sea stretch toward the horizon, it's impossible not to feel that something significant is unfolding. The Turkmenistan Investment Forum 2025, taking place on September 18-19, isn't just another business gathering where suits … [Read more...]
Turkmenistan and UNDP Collaborate on Financing Tools to Achieve the SDGs
Ashgabat, 17 September 2025 – The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) in Turkmenistan, in partnership with the Ministry of Finance and Economy of Turkmenistan, conducted a two-day training on Financing for Achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The training took place on September 16–17, 2025, in Ashgabat and brought together representatives from relevant … [Read more...]
Turkmenistan Showcases Sustainable Development Achievements at Almaty Forum
From 3 to 5 September 2025, the Ninth Multilateral Forum of North and Central Asia on the Implementation of Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and the preparation of Voluntary National Reviews (VNRs) was held in Almaty, Kazakhstan. The event was organized by the Sub-Regional Office of the United Nations Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific (ESCAP), as … [Read more...]
Beyond LLDC3 – The way ahead is illuminated by Permanent Neutrality of Turkmenistan
Tariq Saeedi in Karachi, Elvira Kadyrova and Raviliya Kadyrova in Ashgabat The Third United Nations Conference on Landlocked Developing Countries (LLDC3), which wrapped up in Awaza, Turkmenistan, on August 8, 2025, was not just a gathering of nations—it was a beacon of collaborative progress amid global uncertainties. As the world reflects on its outcomes, including the … [Read more...]
Awaza: World Celebrates First International Day of Awareness of the Special Development Needs and Challenges of Landlocked Developing Countries
Elvira Kadyrova and Ravilya Kadyrova, Awaza, Turkmenistan On 6 August 2025, the global community marks the first International Day of Awareness of the Special Development Needs and Challenges of Landlocked Developing Countries, established by the United Nations General Assembly resolution on July 25, 2025. This day represents a significant milestone, aimed at highlighting … [Read more...]
Speech by President of Turkmenistan Serdar Berdimuhamedov at the first plenary session of the Third UN Conference on Landlocked Developing Countries
Your Excellencies: Dear Secretary-General of the United Nations Antonio Guterres, Dear Chairman of the 79th session of the UN General Assembly, Philemon Yang, Dear President of the United Nations Economic and Social Council, Lok Bahadur Thapa, Dear Heads of State, Governments, international organizations, heads and members of delegations! Ladies and … [Read more...]
Moscow to Host International Youth Forum “Generation of Unity”
On September 19, Moscow—the capital of the Russian Federation—will serve as the venue for the International Youth Forum "Generation of Unity," held as part of the World Public Summit. The forum is expected to welcome young leaders, public figures, entrepreneurs, volunteers, students, and representatives of youth organizations from over 15 countries. The event aims to … [Read more...]
“Geography Does Not Determine Destiny”: President of Kazakhstan on the Potential of Landlocked Developing Countries
On 5 August 2025, speaking at the UN Conference on Landlocked Developing Countries (LLDCs) in Awaza, President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev thanked President of Turkmenistan Serdar Berdimuhamedov for the initiative to convene the conference and expressed gratitude to UN Secretary-General António Guterres for his commitment to addressing the challenges and realizing the opportunities … [Read more...]
President of Tajikistan Emomali Rahmon highlights priorities for Landlocked Countries at UN Conference
President of the Republic of Tajikistan Emomali Rahmon spoke at the Third United Nations Conference on Landlocked Developing Countries (LLDCs), held in Awaza. In his speech, Emomali Rahmon emphasized the critical importance of the conference for assessing the outcomes of the Vienna Programme of Action for 2014–2024 and defining new priorities for the upcoming period. He … [Read more...]
Belarus and Turkmenistan Exchange Expertise on Sustainable Development Goals implementation
On 3 June 2025, a meeting took place in Minsk between a Turkmen delegation and Belarusian officials as part of a cooperative initiative with the United Nations Development Program. The visit aimed to study Belarus' experience in implementing the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), according to the Ministry of Economy of Belarus. The Turkmen delegation, comprising … [Read more...]
UNECE and ESCAP Convene Regional Stakeholder Consultations on Energy Connectivity in Central Asia
As part of the joint Programme on Energy Connectivity in Central Asia and the Caucasus, the United Nations Economic Commission for Europe (UNECE) and the United Nations Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific (ESCAP) hosted regional stakeholder consultations in Astana, Kazakhstan, to explore pathways for financing enhanced energy connectivity in Central … [Read more...]
Turkmenistan Defines National Steps for Adapting to Cryosphere Changes
A national workshop was held in Ashgabat on 12–13 May 2025 as part of the GEF–UNDP–UNESCO project “Strengthening the resilience of Central Asian countries by enabling regional cooperation to assess glacio-nival systems to develop integrated methods for sustainable development and adaptation to climate change.” The workshop aimed to translate regional priorities into concrete … [Read more...]
Central Asia Conference on Climate Change
The Central Asian Conference on Climate Change began on May 13, 2025, at the Yyldyz Hotel in Turkmenistan's capital. Organized by Turkmenistan's Ministry of Environmental Protection and the Regional Environmental Center for Central Asia (CAREC), the event brought together scientists, experts, and UN representatives from Central Asian countries. Key highlights: - The … [Read more...]
A meeting with the delegation of the UN Human Settlements Programme (UN-Habitat) was held at the MFA of Turkmenistan
On May 6, 2025, a meeting was held between Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs of Turkmenistan Mahri Bashimova and members of the assessment mission, consisting of international experts from the United Nations Human Settlements Programme (UN-Habitat). The main topic of the negotiations was the expansion of bilateral cooperation within the framework of the current Memorandum … [Read more...]
Uzbekistan plans to increase the share of renewable energy sources in electricity production to 40% by 2030
Boriy Alikhanov and Narimon Umarov, deputies of the Legislative Chamber Oliy Majlis of the Republic of Uzbekistan. Today, many countries are radically revising their policies in the transition from the traditional model, in which environmental protection is considered a burden on the economy, to an engine of sustainable environmental development - a green … [Read more...]
UNDP and the U.S. Embassy in Turkmenistan Host the Second Coordination Meeting of the Development Partners Sustainable Economy and Finance Group
The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and the U.S. Embassy in Turkmenistan jointly convened the Second Coordination Meeting of the Sustainable Economy and Finance (SEF) Working Group on 20 March 2025. The participants of the meeting, representing the Government of Turkmenistan and the country's diplomatic community, were informed about the current and planned … [Read more...]
UN General Assembly Establishes Regional Centre for Sustainable Development in Almaty
In a landmark decision underscoring global commitment to sustainable development, the United Nations General Assembly unanimously adopted a resolution to establish the UN Regional Centre for Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) for Central Asia and Afghanistan. The resolution, spearheaded by Kazakhstan on behalf of Central Asian states, garnered support from 152 UN member … [Read more...]
The Year of Peace and Trust 2025: Advancing Sustainable Development through Partnerships and Connectivity
Narine Sahakyan, UNDP Resident Representative The year 2025, declared the Year of Peace and Trust by Turkmenistan and supported by a UN General Assembly resolution, represents a unique opportunity to strengthen joint efforts toward a just, inclusive, and sustainable future. In line with the UN Secretary-General’s “New Agenda for Peace”, which underscores the importance … [Read more...]
Introduction of GIS technologies in Turkmenistan: Innovations for sustainable development of agriculture and economy
Turkmenistan is one of the largest countries in Central Asia, occupying the second largest territory in the region. However, almost 80% of its area is occupied by the endless sands of Karakum, and only 20% of the remaining land is suitable for efficient use. In the context of such natural and climatic features, the rational use of land is becoming a key element of government … [Read more...]
The Global E-Commerce Landscape: Trends, Growth, and Opportunities
Global E-Commerce Market Volume and Growth In 2024, the global e-commerce market has reached an impressive milestone, with total sales volumes estimated at approximately $6.3 trillion. This represents a year-over-year increase of around 9.4% from 2023, demonstrating the continued robust growth of online retail and digital commerce platforms. The steady expansion reflects the … [Read more...]
President Serdar Berdimuhamedov outlines priorities of Turkmenistan’s foreign policy for 2025
During an expanded Cabinet of ministers’ meeting on Monday, 9 December 2024, President Serdar Berdimuhamedov addressed the country's diplomatic corps, outlining priorities for the nation's foreign policy and cooperation with international organizations. In his speech, the Head of state noted significant events of 2024, including the wide celebration of the 300th anniversary … [Read more...]
The third meeting of the «Turkmenistan-UN» Strategic Advisory Council was held in Ashgabat
On December 6, 2024, the third meeting of the “Turkmenistan-UN” Strategic Advisory Council was held at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Turkmenistan. The meeting was attended by the relevant Deputy Chairmen of the Cabinet of Ministers of Turkmenistan, heads and representatives of the ministries and departments of the country, heads of diplomatic missions of Turkmenistan … [Read more...]
A new complex of customs post buildings opened on the Turkmen-Uzbek border
In anticipation of Turkmenistan’s Neutrality Day, a new, state-of-the-art complex at the Farap highway customs post was officially opened, according to the electronic newspaper “Turkmenistan: The Golden Age.” The modernized complex, now spanning 10 hectares (double its previous size), is equipped with advanced technologies to streamline and secure customs procedures. … [Read more...]
The OSCE PA Ashgabat Conference: Dialogue for peace and a sustainable future
On 27 November, the first day of the Ashgabat Conference titled "Parliamentary Diplomacy in the OSCE Area: Dialogue as a Tool for Building Bridges for a Secure and Peaceful Future" took place. The event was jointly organized by the Mejlis of Turkmenistan and the OSCE Parliamentary Assembly (OSCE PA). The primary goal of the conference was to bolster regional dialogue and … [Read more...]
Meeting at the MFA of Turkmenistan with the Regional Director of the United Nations Development Coordination Office (UNDCO) for Europe and Central Asia
On 27 November 2024, the Minister of Foreign Affairs of Turkmenistan Rashid Meredov met with the Regional Director of the United Nations Development Coordination Office (UNDCO) for Europe and Central Asia Ms.Gwi-Yeop Son. During the meeting, the sides highly appraised the long-standing strategic partnership between Turkmenistan and the United Nations, encompassing a wide … [Read more...]
EU-Turkmenistan Partnership: Collaboration for Sustainable Development
On 1 November 2024, an insightful workshop on EU-Turkmenistan Cooperation took place in Ashgabat. The event titled "Introduction and Exchange of Experience on Improving Approaches to European Partnership Communication" brought together representatives of the European Union Delegation in Turkmenistan, experts from the EU "Strategic Communication and Public Diplomacy" project, as … [Read more...]
IFC Increases Impact in Central Asia with Strong Investments in Fiscal Year 2024
Climate finance, infrastructure, agriculture, and micro and smaller businesses in Central Asia were just some of the areas that benefited from strong funding from the International Finance Corporation (IFC), a member of the World Bank Group, over the last fiscal year. The funds, coupled with advisory support, are helping to increase private sector participation, create jobs, … [Read more...]
A Step towards Sustainability: UNICEF’s Water Management Initiative at the UN House in Turkmenistan
In 2024, UNICEF has embarked on an innovative initiative at the premises of the UN House in Turkmenistan to ensure efficient use of water and integrate innovation in sustainable water management practices. UNICEF Country Office is sharing the premises with 10 UN agencies and has quite an extensive surrounding territory, that requires to be irrigated and cared for. Water for … [Read more...]
#TurkmenYouth4SDGs: Youth Take Center Stage in Sustainable Development
In celebration of World Cities Day 2024, UNDP Turkmenistan, in partnership with the Institute of International Relations of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, organized a captivating youth session titled #TurkmenYouth4SDGs at the UN building in Ashgabat. This engaging gathering brought together UNDP experts and enthusiastic students to explore how the younger generation … [Read more...]
The President of Turkmenistan and the UN Secretary General held talks in Ashgabat
On Saturday, 6 July, negotiations between President of Turkmenistan Serdar Berdimuhamedov and Secretary General of the United Nations Antonio Guterres took place at the Oguzkent Hotel in Ashgabat. At first, the parties held a meeting in a narrow format. Addressing Guterres, the President noted that "Turkmenistan aims to further strengthen relations with the United Nations … [Read more...]
The National Leader of the Turkmen people, Chairman of the Halk Maslahaty, met with the UN Secretary General
On Saturday, 6 July 2024, the National Leader of the Turkmen people, Chairman of the Halk Maslahaty Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov met with Secretary General of the United Nations Antonio Guterres. Arkadag Berdimuhamedov congratulated Antonio Guterres on the awarding the jubilee medal of Turkmenistan "Magtymguly Pyragyny 300 ýyllygyna". Expressing sincere gratitude for the … [Read more...]
OPEC Fund for International Development deepens commitment to Central Asia – New Agreements signed with Turkmenistan, Tajikistan and Kazakhstan
The OPEC Fund for International Development (the OPEC Fund) is significantly increasing its commitment to the countries and people of Central Asia, which currently stands at US$1 billion in public and private sector loans as well as grants. Three new agreements with Kazakhstan, Tajikistan and Turkmenistan, signed during the OPEC Fund Development Forum in Vienna to underscore … [Read more...]