On June 5, an International Scientific and Practical Conference titled “Environmental Well-Being and International Cooperation in the Year of ‘Independent Neutral Turkmenistan – Homeland of Purposeful Winged Horses’” was held in the building of the Agricultural Complex of the country in Ashgabat. The event was dedicated to World Environment Day, according to TDH.
The forum brought together heads of relevant ministries and public organizations of Turkmenistan, as well as representatives of international and regional organizations, including UN agencies. Before the plenary session began, a welcoming address from the President of Turkmenistan, Serdar Berdimuhamedov, was read out. The message emphasized the importance of the rational use of natural resources, biodiversity conservation, and ensuring environmental well-being.
The conference noted that Turkmenistan is implementing measures to combat climate change, preserve natural ecosystems, and expand international environmental cooperation. Among the key steps highlighted were the fulfillment of obligations under the Paris Agreement and accession to the Global Methane Pledge. An exhibition showcasing the country’s achievements in environmental protection was organized for forum participants.
During the plenary session, speeches were delivered by the UN Resident Coordinator in Turkmenistan, Dmitry Shlapachenko, the UNDP Resident Representative in Turkmenistan, Narine Saakyan, and the UNICEF Representative in Turkmenistan, Jalpa Ratna. Representatives of international organizations emphasized the importance of strengthening cooperation in combating climate change, promoting the sustainable use of natural resources, and advancing the principles of sustainable development. Particular attention was given to the preparation of Turkmenistan’s first National State of the Environment Report for 2017–2022 and the initiative to establish a Regional Climate Technology Center for the countries of Central Asia.
Following the plenary session, the conference continued its work in thematic sections. Participants discussed the development of environmental legislation, the introduction of environmentally safe technologies, the transition to a green economy, and measures aimed at improving the environmental situation in the Aral Sea region.
At the conclusion of the forum, participants adopted an address to the President of Turkmenistan, Serdar Berdimuhamedov, expressing gratitude for his attention to environmental protection issues and for promoting international cooperation in the environmental sphere.