Uladzimir Valetka, ECONOMIST In Turkmenistan, systems thinking and strategic foresight have helped the UN Country Team (UNCT) engage the Government more effectively to identify strategic entry points for advancing national development aspirations and accelerating progress on the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). This shift did not happen overnight. It followed a phased … [Read more...]
United Nations and Government of Turkmenistan discuss monitoring of Human Rights Commitments
Ashgabat, 29 June 2026 — Representatives of the national institutions and United Nations agencies have met today to discuss practical approaches to monitor the implementation of Turkmenistan’s human rights commitments under the Universal Periodic Review (UPR). The meeting organized by the UN Resident Coordinator’s office jointly with the Institute of State, Law and … [Read more...]
Turkmen Delegation Attends the Fourth High-Level Conference of Heads of Counter-Terrorism Agencies of UN Member States
A Turkmen delegation led by the Deputy Minister of National Security of Turkmenistan participated in the Fourth High-Level Conference of Heads of Counter-Terrorism Agencies of Member States, held at the UN Headquarters. On the sidelines of the forum, the delegation also took part in a UN counter-terrorism side-event dedicated to national and regional counter-terrorism … [Read more...]
Dmitry Shlapachenko Completes His Mission as UN Resident Coordinator in Turkmenistan
On 30 June 2026, the Minister of Foreign Affairs of Turkmenistan, Rashid Meredov, met with the UN Resident Coordinator in Turkmenistan, Dmitry Shlapachenko, who is completing his diplomatic mission in the country, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Turkmenistan reports. During the meeting, the sides discussed current issues of interaction between Turkmenistan and the UN … [Read more...]
UNODC Programme Office in Turkmenistan Launches Youth Awareness Week for World Drug Day, Empowering Youth for a Drug-Free Future
Ashgabat, Turkmenistan, 26 June 2026 – The UNODC Programme Office in Turkmenistan together with the Regional Youth Network for Central Asia (RYNCA) Members in Turkmenistan, have launched an engaging “Youth Awareness & Healthy Lifestyle Week” titled “Prevention Starts with Me,” in observance of the International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking, marked annually … [Read more...]
THE UN SECRETARY-GENERAL – REMARKS AT THE LONDON CLIMATE WEEK – LOCAL CLIMATE ACTION SUMMIT
Here are the remarks of the UN Secretary General at the London Climate Week – Local Climate Action Summit, as received from UN RCO Turkmenistan: London, 23 June 2026 Dear friends, It is a great pleasure to be back among leaders who are not waiting for change – but delivering it. This morning, here in London, I delivered a message to the world. And no better place … [Read more...]
High-Level Dialogue in Turkmenistan Explores Water Scenarios and Food Security Risks
Government representatives of Turkmenistan, the United Nations, development partners and international financial institutions convened today for a high-level joint expert dialogue to discuss integrated water scenarios and cascading effects on related sectors across water and food security, agriculture, jobs and livelihoods, social protection, environment and … [Read more...]
Turkmenistan launches rollout of Third Voluntary National Review on SDGs
A round table dedicated to the preparation of Turkmenistan’s third Voluntary National Review (VNR) on the implementation of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) was held today at the United Nations Building in Ashgabat, bringing together government representatives, UN entities, and civil society organizations. The event was co-hosted by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs … [Read more...]
United Nations Games 2026 Officially Opened at the United Nations Headquarters – Turkmenistan Chairs UN Games Organizing Committee
On 12 June 2026, the Opening Ceremony of the United Nations Games 2026 was held in a virtual format, bringing together representatives of Member States, the United Nations Secretariat and specialized agencies. The event marked the official launch of the third edition of the United Nations Games, an initiative established by the United Nations General Assembly through … [Read more...]
Children in Turkmenistan engage in interactive climate learning ahead of World Environment Day
Ashgabat, 4 June 2026 — An interactive educational session brought together children, youth, and representatives of the United Nations and national partners in Turkmenistan to mark World Environment Day, celebrated annually on 5 June. Organized by the United Nations in Turkmenistan jointly with the Ministry of Education of Turkmenistan, with participation of ILO, UNDP, … [Read more...]
Turkmenistan and UN partners convene “Hard Talk” on strengthening SDG financing
Ashgabat, 2 June 2026 — A high-level expert dialogue in the “Hard Talk” format was held today in Ashgabat, focusing on strengthening Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) financing through improved public finance systems and integrated financing approaches. The event was jointly organized with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Turkmenistan, Ministry of Finance and Economy of … [Read more...]
Turkmenistan and UN partners convene 14th Joint Expert Group meeting on SDG Financing
Ashgabat, 2 June 2026 — The 14th meeting of the Joint Expert Group (JEG) on SDG Financing between the Government of Turkmenistan and the United Nations brought together national stakeholders and development partners to advance dialogue on strengthening financing for sustainable development. Held at the UN House in Ashgabat and online, the meeting provided a platform … [Read more...]
Beyond Blocs: Turkmenistan’s Quiet Diplomacy in a Fractured World
Tariq Saeedi and Elvira Kadyrova There is a certain kind of diplomatic activity that attracts little headline attention precisely because it is consistent, measured, and free of drama. No ultimatums. No bloc posturing. No zero-sum calculations announced with fanfare. --- Turkmenistan's foreign policy tends to operate in this register — and in a period when geopolitical noise … [Read more...]
Turkmenistan and UN Take Security to Next Level: Ashgabat Set to Host Counter-Terrorism Program Office
The Minister of Foreign Affairs of Turkmenistan, Rashid Meredov, held key talks with the Acting Under-Secretary-General of the UN and Head of the UN Counter-Terrorism Office (UNOCT), Alexander Zuev, during his visit to the United States. The meeting, held on 28 May 2026, demonstrated the strategic and long-standing partnership between Turkmenistan and the United … [Read more...]
China’s Global Governance Initiative: Turkmenistan Outlines Path Forward
Turkmenistan has called for a new multilateral "preventive governance" platform and proposed declaring 2028 the Year of International Law. The proposals were made during a meeting of the Group of Friends of Global Governance in New York on 28 May 2026. The session, which brought together representatives from 60 nations, concluded with a five-point consensus focused on … [Read more...]
Turkmenistan Set a Positive Example for SDG Implementation, Says UNGA President
The President of the 80th session of the UN General Assembly, Annalena Baerbock, has highly praised Turkmenistan's track record in implementing the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Baerbock noted that the country's achievements and practical steps serve as a positive model for effectively advancing the global development agenda, according to the Turkmen Ministry of Foreign … [Read more...]
China, Turkmenistan Reaffirm Commitment to Deepening Strategic Partnership
China and Turkmenistan have reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening their comprehensive strategic partnership, according to a press release from the Turkmen Foreign Ministry. The announcement followed a meeting in New York on 27 May 2026 between Turkmen Foreign Minister Rashid Meredov and Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi, who also serves as a member of the Political … [Read more...]
Neutrality in Action: How Turkmenistan is Positioning Peace as the Central Imperative of the Emerging World Order
Tariq Saeedi and Elvira Kadyrova At a moment when the international system is visibly straining under the weight of wars, geopolitical fragmentation, economic coercion, and institutional fatigue, the voice coming from Turkmenistan at the United Nations this week carried unusual clarity and strategic coherence. The participation of Rashid Meredov in the … [Read more...]
China ready to work with Turkmenistan to invigorate bilateral ties: Chinese FM
China stands ready to work with Turkmenistan to act on the consensus reached by the leaders of the two countries, advance cooperation on major projects and inject fresh vitality into bilateral relations, Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi said Wednesday. During a meeting with Turkmenistan's Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Rashid Meredov, Wang thanked Meredov … [Read more...]
Foreign Minister of Turkmenistan Holds Meetings with UN Secretary-General and High-Level Officials in New York
Turkmenistan’s strategic partnership with the UN and the promotion of Ashgabat’s key initiatives in preventive diplomacy, security, and sustainable development were the central themes of a series of talks held in New York by the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Rashid Meredov, with UN Secretary-General António Guterres, Under-Secretary-General for Political and Peacebuilding … [Read more...]
Peace through Development and Dialogue: Minister of Foreign Affairs of Turkmenistan Spoke at the UN Security Council High-Level Open Debate
On 26 May 2026, in New York, the Minister of Foreign Affairs of Turkmenistan, Rashid Meredov, took part in a high-level open debate entitled “Upholding the purposes and principles of the UN Charter and strengthening the UN-centered international system”, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Turkmenistan reports. Turkmenistan was invited to the debate by the Minister of Foreign … [Read more...]
Concept of Turkmenistan’s Chairmanship in the CIS in 2026 Circulated as an Official Document of the UN General Assembly
The Concept of the Chairmanship of Turkmenistan in the Commonwealth of Independent States in 2026 has been published and circulated as an official document of the 80th session of the United Nations General Assembly under agenda item 126 entitled “Cooperation between the United Nations and regional and other organizations” with the symbol A/80/722. The circulation of this … [Read more...]
UN General Assembly Unanimously Adopts Turkmenistan-Initiated Resolution on Neutrality
On 20 May 2026, the Resolution “The Role and Importance of a Policy of Neutrality in Maintaining and Strengthening International Peace, Security and Sustainable Development” was unanimously adopted during the 82nd plenary meeting of the 80th session of the UN General Assembly. The Resolution was initiated by Turkmenistan and co-sponsored by 47 … [Read more...]
Ashgabat to Host International Dialogue on Sustainable Urban Development
Ashgabat will host the 25th Multi-sector International Exhibition and Conference “White City Ashgabat” on 24–25 May, bringing together international organisations, business leaders and development institutions to discuss sustainable urban development and innovation. A UN-supported roundtable titled “From Global Dialogue to Local Action: Advancing Sustainable, Inclusive and … [Read more...]
Governments Review Migration Priorities in New York
United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres delivers opening remarks at the first plenary meeting of the International Migration Review Forum, United Nations Headquarters, New York. Photo: IOM/Radhika Chalasani New York, 8 May 2026 – Governments from around the world discussed steps forward on migration challenges and opportunities through 2030, adopting a Progress … [Read more...]
Turkmenistan presents modern approaches to migration policy at the Second UN International Migration Review Forum in New York
From 5 to 8 May 2026, the Second International Migration Review Forum is being held at the Headquarters of the United Nations in New York under the auspices of the UN General Assembly. The Forum serves as the principal global intergovernmental platform for discussing the implementation of the Global Compact for Safe, Orderly and Regular Migration, exchanging advanced … [Read more...]
The Permanent Representative of Turkmenistan to the United Nations presented credentials to the UN Secretary-General
On April 20, 2026, the Permanent Representative of Turkmenistan to the United Nations Vepa Hajiyev presented his credentials to the Secretary-General of the United Nations António Guterres. During the credential presentation ceremony, a brief meeting took place, during which warm greetings of the esteemed President of Turkmenistan Serdar Berdimuhamedov and the National … [Read more...]
Turkmenistan’s Transport Diplomacy: United Nations Decade of Sustainable Transport 2026–2035
At the 64th plenary meeting of the 80th session of the UN General Assembly, the resolution "United Nations Decade of Sustainable Transport (2026–2035)" was adopted by consensus at the initiative of Turkmenistan. The primary purpose of the United Nations Decade of Sustainable Transport (2026–2035) is to accelerate collective action towards the formation of sustainable, … [Read more...]
Turkmenistan at the Forefront of Global Energy Diplomacy: Key Aspects of the UN Resolution on Reliable Energy Connectivity
Energy connectivity in the modern world can be metaphorically compared to the circulatory system of the global economy. Imagine that the vessels are infrastructure and transit routes; if they function stably and uninterruptedly, then all organs — countries and regions — receive the necessary resources for life and development, regardless of their distance from the "heart," the … [Read more...]
Turkmenistan’s Foreign Minister Reviews the Year: UN General Assembly Adopts New Resolutions on Energy and Transport Initiated by Turkmenistan
At the ceremony “International Year of Peace and Trust: Confident Steps of Neutral Turkmenistan,” organized by the Halk Maslahaty of Turkmenistan in Ashgabat on 25 Dec 2025, Deputy Chairman of the Cabinet of Ministers and Minister of Foreign Affairs Rashid Meredov delivered a keynote speech. The Minister emphasized that 2025 has become a landmark year in the history of … [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...]
Turkmenistan — Center of Multilateral Dialogue: International Organizations Confirm the Importance of Neutrality for Global Peace
Delegations from international and regional structures participated in the International Forum held in Ashgabat, timed to coincide with the International Year of Peace and Trust, the International Day of Neutrality, and the 30th anniversary of Turkmenistan's permanent neutrality. After the plenary session featuring speeches by heads of state and government, the forum … [Read more...]
Tokayev at the International Forum in Ashgabat: Kazakhstan Proposes to Expand the UN Security Council and Create an International Water Organization
President of Kazakhstan Kassym‑Jomart Tokayev, addressing the International Forum on Peace and Trust, underscored the urgent need for reform of the United Nations. He called for the expansion of the Security Council and the strengthening of the role of the General Assembly in global decision‑making. “Despite certain successes in resolving individual conflicts, the overall … [Read more...]
Neutrality as a “living process”: Turkmenistan proposed to create a University of Peace and Trust jointly with the United Nations – Speech by President Serdar Berdimuhamedov at the International Forum of Peace and Trust in Ashgabat
President of Turkmenistan Serdar Berdimuhamedov warmly welcomed the heads of State and Government, heads of international organizations, politicians, diplomats, parliamentarians, scientists and public figures who arrived in Turkmenistan to celebrate the International Day of Neutrality and the 30th anniversary of the international legal recognition of the country's permanent … [Read more...]
Speech by President of Turkmenistan at an expanded meeting of the Cabinet of Ministers (6 December 2025)
Dear participants of the meeting! At the initiative of Turkmenistan, the United Nations General Assembly adopted by consensus the Resolution "2025 – International Year of Peace and Trust", which became one of the significant political events. In this regard, I would like to note that a number of important international events were held in 2025. The significance of the … [Read more...]
Central Asia’s Voice in the UN: Kyrgyzstan Ambassador to Turkmenistan Holds Briefing on His Country’s Candidacy for UN Security Council
Elvira Kadyrova As part of diplomatic efforts aimed at gaining international support, the Ambassador of the Kyrgyz Republic to Turkmenistan, Azizbek Madmarov, held a briefing in Ashgabat dedicated to Kyrgyzstan's candidacy for non-permanent membership in the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) for the 2027–2028 period. The event was attended by heads and staff of … [Read more...]
The Inspiring Saga of Arkadag and Neutrality
Tariq Saeedi Executive Summary Immediately upon assuming the presidency in 2007, Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov transformed Turkmenistan's neutrality—originally proclaimed during the first president's tenure in 1995—into an active, positive, and dynamic framework that fostered proactive international cooperation while maintaining non-alignment principles. His leadership … [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...]
Roundtable on Strengthening SDG Reporting in Turkmenistan Held in Ashgabat
Ashgabat, 30 October 2025 — The National Working Group on the Implementation of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) in Turkmenistan, in collaboration with the United Nations system, held a roundtable discussion focused on strengthening national SDG reporting mechanisms. The meeting brought together representatives of ministries and agencies of Turkmenistan … [Read more...]
UN Resident Coordinator Engages Entrepreneurs in Mary to Enhance Collaboration on Sustainable Development
Mary, Turkmenistan — Dmitry Shlapachenko, UN Resident Coordinator in Turkmenistan, convened a meeting with entrepreneurs from Mary as part of the Memorandum of Understanding between the United Nations and the Union of Industrialists and Entrepreneurs of Turkmenistan (UIET). The session included representatives from “Taze Ay,” a food industry enterprise, and “Gerchek,” … [Read more...]
This one is for unstoppable Narine
Tariq Saeedi In a world often bogged down by bureaucracy and big-picture debates, it's the people on the ground who really make a difference—the ones who roll up their sleeves and turn ideas into action that touch lives. And if there's anyone who embodies that spirit, it's Dr. Narine Sahakyan, the UNDP Resident Representative in Turkmenistan. I've known Narine since her … [Read more...]
Turkmenistan Marks 80th Anniversary of the United Nations — Building Our Future Together
The United Nations in Turkmenistan warmly invites partners, general public, media representatives to join nationwide celebrations marking the 80th anniversary of the United Nations — a milestone of global cooperation, peace, and shared progress. Location Ashgabat 21 Archabil 744000 Ashgabat Turkmenistan 23 October 2025 - 25 October 2025 About the … [Read more...]
President of Turkmenistan Approves Proposals to Strengthen Cooperation with the UN – Awaza Program of Action and Ashgabat’s Priority Positions on Global Issues on the Agenda
On 17 October 2025, during a meeting of the Cabinet of Ministers, Deputy Chairman of the Cabinet of Ministers and Minister of Foreign Affairs of Turkmenistan Rashid Meredov presented a report on cooperation within the framework of the Strategic Advisory Council “Turkmenistan–UN.” Established in March 2024 by a decree of the President of Turkmenistan, this council serves as a … [Read more...]
Global Recognition: UN Adopts Resolution on Awaza Political Declaration for Landlocked Countries
The UN General Assembly unanimously adopted the Resolution titled “Awaza Political Declaration” during the 18th plenary meeting of the 80th session. This was announced by Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs Rashid Meredov during a government meeting on Friday, 17 Oct. The Awaza Political Declaration was one of the outcomes of the Third UN Conference on … [Read more...]
China’s Position Paper on the United Nations General Assembly Resolution 2758
On October 25, 1971, at the 26th session of the U.N. General Assembly, Resolution 2758 was adopted with an overwhelming majority, which “decides to restore all its rights to the People’s Republic of China and to recognize the representatives of its Government as the only legitimate representatives of China to the United Nations, and to expel forthwith the representatives of … [Read more...]
Central Asian Leaders at UN General Assembly: Urgent Call to Protect Glaciers and Water Resources
At the 80th session of the UN General Assembly, Central Asian leaders issued a stark warning about the rapid melting of glaciers, which threatens water and food security for millions. The Presidents of Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, and Uzbekistan proposed bold initiatives, including international forums and new institutions, to avert an impending … [Read more...]
China: The Driving Force of the peace, stability and progress
Ji Shumin, Ambassador of China to Turkmenistan This year, the United Nations celebrates its 80th anniversary, but this anniversary year has proven to be far from calm: various doubts and negative assessments are being voiced regarding the role and importance of the UN. At the same time, it should be noted that the forces … [Read more...]
Priority Positions of Turkmenistan at the 80th Session of the United Nations General Assembly
Turkmenistan regards the 80th anniversary session of the United Nations General Assembly as an important stage in international efforts to strengthen peace and stability. In today’s complex global environment, marked by numerous challenges and declining levels of trust, it is especially relevant to harness the potential of the United Nations — its political and diplomatic … [Read more...]
Statement by the President of Turkmenistan at the general debate of the 80th session of the UN General Assembly
Dear Chairman, Distinguished heads and members of delegations, ladies and gentlemen, First of all, let me congratulate you on the beginning of the 80th session of the United Nations General Assembly and wish you fruitful work. I congratulate Ms. Annalena Baerbock on her election as President of the General Assembly and wish her every success. I would also like to … [Read more...]
UNGA: President of Turkmenistan Proposes World Summit for Peace and Trust and ‘Digital Integration’ Platform
On 23 September 2025, President of Turkmenistan Serdar Berdimuhamedov delivered a statement at the general debate of the 80th session of the UN General Assembly. Here is statement summary, published by the UN: Serdar Berdimuhamedov, President of Turkmenistan, said that, as a permanently neutral State that aims to cooperate with the UN to ensure international peace and … [Read more...]