Policy
Financial stability of LLDC countries: ways to mobilise resources discussed in Avaza
08.08.2025The Third UN Conference on Landlocked Developing Countries (LLDC 3) included an interactive round table on financial sustainability and resource mobilization. The keynote speech was delivered by Mammetguly Astanagulov, Minister of Finance and Economy of Turkmenistan, who stressed the importance of a comprehensive and coordinated approach to overcoming the chronic financing gap faced by these countries. This was reported by IIC. ‘Financial constraints remain one of the key challenges for landlocked countries. We must move from discussions to real action to remove these barriers,’ the Minister said. During the discussions, participants identified a number of structural challenges: a limited tax base, declining official development assistance (ODA), reduced inflows of foreign direct investment, growing external debt and vulnerability to global and climate crises. Among the proposed solutions are strengthening national financial systems through modernising tax administration, digitalisation and improving access to financial services. There was a call for the international community to increase aid: it was proposed to raise ODA to 0.2% of developed countries' GNI for the least developed countries, most of which are landlocked. ‘Support should not be episodic, but sustainable and fair, consistent with national priorities and strategies,’ Astanagulov stressed. At the end of the meeting, it was noted that the successful implementation of the Awaza Programme of Action for 2024–2034 requires a sustainable global partnership and collective efforts by all stakeholders. ‘Only by joining forces can we ensure that no landlocked state is left behind on the sustainable development agenda,’ Mammetguly Astanagulov concluded.
Avaza discussed challenges and prospects for sustainable development in landlocked countries
08.08.2025Within the framework of the Third UN Conference on Landlocked Developing Countries (LLDC 3), a round table was held in the ‘Avaza’ National Tourist Zone dedicated to systemic challenges and opportunities for sustainable development of countries in this category. Following the discussions, Tabyldy Muratbekov, Deputy of the Jogorku Kenesh of the Kyrgyz Republic, delivered a report, according to IIC. Participants identified key challenges facing LLDCs, including limited access to global markets, dependence on a narrow range of economic sectors, vulnerability to climate risks and inflationary fluctuations. Particular emphasis was placed on the need for accelerated digitalisation and transition to an innovative development model. It was noted that science and technology play a crucial role in ensuring sustainable growth. Among the initiatives announced were the creation of technology banks, support for small and medium-sized businesses, stimulation of entrepreneurial activity and diversification of economies. Special attention was also paid to the rational use of natural resources as strategic capital requiring a careful and balanced approach. Participants emphasised the importance of regional cooperation as an important tool for strengthening economic stability and promoting shared prosperity. At the conclusion of the round table, it was noted that only a comprehensive transformation of all sectors of the economy will enable landlocked countries to achieve sustainable and inclusive development.
The final plenary session of the Third UN Conference opened in Avaza
08.08.2025The sixth and final plenary session of the Third UN Conference on Landlocked Developing Countries (LLDC 3) was held in the ‘Avaza’ National Tourist Zone. The event was attended by Rashid Meredov, Deputy Chairman of the Cabinet of Ministers and Minister of Foreign Affairs of Turkmenistan. This was reported by the IIC. The meeting summarised the results of multilateral discussions held on the sidelines of the conference and considered key areas for the implementation of the Awaza Programme of Action. Participants emphasised the need to strengthen regional and international cooperation aimed at promoting the sustainable development of LLDCs. Speaking at the session, the Head of the Foreign Affairs Ministry of Turkmenistan stressed that the country consistently advocates comprehensive support for landlocked countries, including through the promotion of international initiatives to build their export potential, develop modern transport and logistics infrastructure and enhance economic sustainability. The final meeting of the conference will be an important step towards renewing the global partnership agenda in the interests of landlocked countries, reaffirming the international community's commitment to dialogue and joint action.
Oguljahan Atabayeva participated with a speech at a meeting of women leaders
08.08.2025As part of the Third UN Conference on Landlocked Developing Countries, a meeting of women leaders was held in ‘Avaza’, at which Oguljahan Atabayeva, Vice-President for Medical Activities of the Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov Charitable Foundation for Assistance to Children in Need of Guardianship, delivered a speech. This was reported by TDH. In her address, she emphasised the active role of women in the socio-political, scientific, educational and cultural life of Turkmenistan, noting their significant presence in leadership positions. At the same time, the speaker highlighted the importance of family values as the foundation of moral education, emphasising their role in shaping a sustainable and cohesive society. Oguljahan Atabayeva paid special attention to the activities of the foundation she heads, noting its contribution to protecting the physical and spiritual health of the younger generation. The foundation actively cooperates with the Ministry of Health and other relevant agencies, providing free medical care to children, especially those left without parental care. Concluding her speech, she emphasised that the protection of motherhood and childhood, the development of women's intellectual and creative potential, and the strengthening of the institution of the family are key priorities of Turkmenistan's state policy. The country's legislation guarantees women's rights and provides for social support measures, including for large families. ‘The woman is at the heart of the home. Let us pray that we women realize the reason for our existence: to love and be loved and through this love become instruments of peace in the world’ Oguljahan Atabayeva concluded her speech with an inspiring quote from Mother Teresa.
A meeting of Turkmen-Turkish interparliamentary friendship groups was held in Avaza
08.08.2025On 6 August, a meeting of Turkmen-Turkish inter-parliamentary friendship groups was held in the ‘Avaza’ National Tourist Zone as part of the Third UN Conference on Landlocked Developing Countries. This was reported by the press service of the Turkmenistan Mejlis. The participants discussed the strengthening and development of bilateral relations between Turkmenistan and Turkey, emphasising the importance of historical and cultural ties. It was noted that such groups contribute to the exchange of experience, the improvement of the legal framework and the intensification of mutual visits. The Head of the Turkey-Turkmenistan inter-parliamentary friendship group familiarised himself with the legislative work of the Mejlis of Turkmenistan in the fields of science, education, social security and ecology. Particular attention was paid to the successful visits of parliamentary delegations, which have significantly contributed to the development of cooperation. Ways to further strengthen inter-state relations through parliamentary diplomacy, including interaction within the UN, were discussed. The parties expressed satisfaction with the current level of cooperation and see great potential for its expansion.
The Days of Culture of Kyrgyzstan and Tajikistan were held in Turkmenistan
08.08.2025The National Tourist Zone ‘Avaza’ hosted the Days of Culture of Kyrgyzstan and Tajikistan within the framework of the Third UN Conference on Landlocked Developing Countries. This was reported by the IIC of Turkmenistan. The events began with a visit to the exhibition venue by high-ranking representatives of Turkmenistan, Kyrgyzstan and Tajikistan, where national traditions and cultural heritage were presented. Kyrgyzstan surprised guests with exquisite national costumes and traditional dishes, while Tajikistan treated them to delicious palav, fresh bread and oriental sweets, receiving high praise for its culinary skills. The day ended with a concert featuring creative groups from all three countries. The artists performed folk dances, songs and national music, creating an atmosphere of unity and fun, which the audience happily joined in. The organisers noted that the Culture Days had become an important event for strengthening friendship and cultural dialogue between the countries of Central Asia, contributing to the development of humanitarian cooperation.
The Chairwoman of the Mejlis of Turkmenistan held a meeting with the Ambassador of Slovenia
08.08.2025On 7 August, in the ‘Avaza’ National Tourist Zone, within the framework of the Third UN Conference on Landlocked Developing Countries, a meeting was held between the Chairwoman of the Mejlis of Turkmenistan, Dunyagozel Gulmanova, and the Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of Slovenia to Turkmenistan, Alenka Sukhadolnik. This was reported by the press service of the Mejlis of Turkmenistan. During the meeting, the importance of transport and logistics cooperation between the countries, the modernisation and development of this sphere in Turkmenistan, as well as legislative initiatives and international agreements in this area were discussed. The parties exchanged views on the prospects for the development of inter-parliamentary ties, trade, culture and tourism. It was emphasised that Turkmenistan, as a state with a policy of peace and neutrality, enjoys international support, and cooperation with Slovenia is becoming increasingly active. The Chairwoman of the Mejlis invited Slovenian parliamentarians to take part in international events marking the 30th anniversary of Turkmenistan's neutrality.
Foreign Affairs Ministers of Turkmenistan and Bhutan noted the importance of the UN conference in Avaza
08.08.2025On 7 August, a meeting between Turkmenistan's Foreign Affairs Minister Rashid Meredov and the Minister of Foreign Affairs and Trade of the Kingdom of Bhutan Dina Nat Dungyel, took place in the ‘Avaza’ National Tourist Zone. This was reported by the press service of the Turkmenistan Foreign Affairs Ministry. During the meeting, the importance of the Third UN Conference on Landlocked Developing Countries (LLDC 3) for strengthening cooperation and sustainable development was noted. The prospects for developing political and diplomatic cooperation, the possibility of establishing diplomatic relations and strengthening partnership in international organisations were discussed. The Foreign Affairs Minister of Turkmenistan emphasised the priorities of foreign policy, including preventive diplomacy and positive neutrality to maintain peace and trust. Specific initiatives by Turkmenistan at the regional and international levels were noted. The sides agreed to continue working to expand mutually beneficial ties in all areas of interest.
The development of sustainable infrastructure was discussed at a UN conference in Turkmenistan
08.08.2025The Third UN Conference on Landlocked Developing Countries (LLDC 3) held a high-level round table on the development of sustainable infrastructure, transport and transit corridors. This was reported by the state news agency TDH. The participants discussed attracting investment, modernising transport, digitalisation and energy, as well as strengthening regional and international cooperation. Turkmenistan presented national programmes for modernising the transport sector and creating logistics centres, emphasising the importance of a global approach to the development of transport links. Particular attention was paid to improving the efficiency of project planning, developing railway, road, port and digital infrastructure, as well as the use of public-private partnerships, international funds and innovative financial instruments. Participants noted the need for training specialists, exchanging experience and transparent management, while international organisations expressed their readiness to provide technical and financial support. The event concluded that sustainable transport systems and close cooperation between countries will form the basis for economic growth, integration into the global economy and improving the quality of life of the population.
General debates held at UN conference in Avaza
08.08.2025On 7 August, during the plenary session of the Third UN Conference on Landlocked Developing Countries (LLDC 3) held at the National Tourist Complex ‘Avaza,’ a general debate was held with the participation of representatives of states, international organisations, business and civil society. This was reported by the state news agency TDH. The event discussed the development of transport infrastructure and logistics, the modernisation of rail and road routes, the creation of transport corridors, the attraction of investment and the harmonisation of customs procedures. Special attention was paid to digital trade, the introduction of innovative technologies, the development of the agricultural sector with a focus on supporting small farms, storage and processing of products, sustainable agriculture and adaptation to climate change. Participants emphasised the importance of gender equality and expanding the role of women in the economy, education and healthcare. The conference served as a step towards strengthening cooperation and confirming the course towards sustainable development in the LLDCs through infrastructure expansion, economic modernisation and the growth of international partnerships.
Avaza discussed issues of sustainable economic development
08.08.2025A series of parallel events dedicated to sustainable economic development were held within the framework of the Third UN Conference on Landlocked Developing Countries (LLDC 3). This was reported by the state news agency TDH. The discussions focused on reforms using technology and innovation, the development of smart transport systems, environmentally friendly technologies and renewable energy. Particular emphasis was placed on the digital economy, e-commerce and the IT sector as drivers of growth and sources of new jobs. The meetings raised issues of food security and attracting investment in agriculture, including through ‘green’ solutions. Turkmenistan's experience in the agricultural sector and the introduction of sustainable technologies was noted. The prospects for solar energy, sustainable agriculture and biodiversity conservation were discussed. Participants discussed the role of UN legal instruments in trade facilitation, the importance of transport corridors and digital infrastructure for e-commerce, as well as mechanisms for financing sustainable development. Other topics of discussion included strengthening cooperation between the LLDCs and coastal countries, developing joint transport infrastructure and creating free trade zones. The meetings highlighted the importance of coordinating efforts, introducing innovations and expanding international partnerships to integrate LLDCs into the global economy. Participants expressed their gratitude to Turkmenistan for the high level of organisation.
Strengthening global partnership discussed in Turkmenistan
08.08.2025On 7 August, the fifth high-level thematic round table was held in the ‘Avaza’ National Tourist Zone as part of the Third UN Conference on Landlocked Developing Countries (LLDC 3). The theme of the meeting was ‘Provision and mobilization of resources, and strengthened global partnerships for sustainable development in landlocked developing countries.’ This was reported by the state news agency TDH. The event, organised by the UN Secretariat and the Government of Turkmenistan, was attended by representatives of participating countries and international organisations. Issues discussed included infrastructure financing, investment attraction, the role of remittances, as well as measures to improve tax systems and expand domestic resource potential. Particular attention was paid to the implementation of the Sustainable Development Goals, in particular SDG 17, which requires active international cooperation. Experts stressed the need to diversify the economy, increase labour productivity, invest in human capital and create a favourable investment climate. It was noted that Turkmenistan, with its significant natural resources, is implementing large-scale projects in energy, industry, transport and other sectors, while actively developing international cooperation. Issues related to debt relief, increasing foreign direct investment flows, developing transport corridors and simplifying customs procedures were also discussed. Proposals were made to create online platforms and hold international events to exchange experience.
Read also
Advertising
Read us in Zen
