The Permanent Representative of Turkmenistan to the United Nations, Vepa Hajiyev, spoke at the opening ceremony of the 2026 United Nations Games, held on 12 June in a virtual format. This was reported by the press service of the Permanent Mission of Turkmenistan to the UN.
V. Hajiyev noted the growing role of sport in strengthening friendship, trust and mutual understanding between peoples.
Representatives of UN member states, the Organization’s Secretariat and specialized agencies took part in the event. The ceremony officially launched the third UN Games — an initiative established by the General Assembly in resolution 78/325 at the proposal of Turkmenistan. The Games are seen as a platform for developing sports diplomacy, strengthening peace and international cooperation.
Assistant Secretary-General of the UN and Executive Director of the Pension Administration, Rosemary McClean, also addressed the participants. In her speech, she emphasized the importance of sport in promoting inclusivity, well-being and solidarity within the UN community.
As part of the ceremony, a video presentation was shown highlighting the results of the 2025 Games. More than 800 athletes from over 100 countries and organizations participated in those competitions, which featured ten sports disciplines.
The 2026 Games program includes competitions in football, basketball, volleyball, tennis, table tennis, badminton, pickleball, chess, running and yoga. The tournament provides diplomats, international staff and their families with an opportunity to interact through sport and strengthen interpersonal ties.
The closing ceremony and award presentation for the winners of the 2026 UN Games are scheduled for 17 July and will take place at the United Nations Headquarters in New York.