Policy
Azerbaijan National Days in Avaza: culture, art and traditions
05.08.2025As part of the Third UN Conference on Landlocked Developing Countries, the ‘Avaza’ National Tourist Zone is hosting Azerbaijan National Days. This was reported by Turkmenportal. The aim of the event is to introduce the international community to the country's rich culture, history and artistic traditions. The Azerbaijan pavilion is open in the conference hall, where books, brochures, souvenirs, carpets, kilims and examples of decorative and applied arts reflecting the centuries-old cultural heritage are on display. An open-air art exhibition, ‘Pearls of Azerbaijan's National Heritage,’ features exhibits from the National Carpet Museum. Guests can view carpets, shebeke, intarsia, jewellery, tekelduz embroidery and khalagai. The programme is complemented by master classes on carpet weaving, shebeke art, jewellery making and traditional kalaghai production. A separate section of the exhibition is dedicated to gastronomy, where visitors can taste traditional dishes and sweets of Azerbaijani cuisine and learn about its unique culinary traditions. The concert programme includes a gala concert on 5 August in honour of the opening of the conference, a festive concert on 6 August dedicated to Azerbaijan National Days, and a closing gala concert on 8 August featuring the country's leading artists.
A briefing was held in Turkmenistan to mark the start of the LLDC 3 plenary session
05.08.2025On 5 August, a briefing was held in the National Tourist Zone to mark the start of the plenary session of the Third United Nations Conference on Landlocked Developing Countries (LLDC 3). This was reported by the press service of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Turkmenistan. The event was moderated by Al Arabiya TV presenter Riz Khan. UN Secretary-General António Guterres, Turkmenistan's Foreign Affairs Minister Rashid Meredov, and UN Under-Secretary-General and High Representative for the Least Developed Countries, Landlocked Developing Countries and Small Island Developing States Rabab Fatima addressed the participants. The speakers emphasised the key role of the LLDC 3 conference in supporting the sustainable and inclusive development of landlocked countries. Particular attention was paid to the importance of the decisions taken at the forum for stimulating economic growth in these countries. The briefing also noted the symbolic importance of the event, which coincided with the 30th anniversary of Turkmenistan's policy of permanent neutrality and the 80th anniversary of the founding of the United Nations. The meeting concluded with a question-and-answer session.
The National Leader of the Turkmen people held a meeting with Rustam Minnikhanov
05.08.2025The National Leader of the Turkmen people, Chairman of the Halk Maslahaty of Turkmenistan, Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov, held negotiations with the Head of the Republic of Tatarstan of the Russian Federation, Rustam Minnikhanov, who arrived in Turkmenistan to participate in the Third United Nations Conference on Landlocked Developing Countries (LLDC 3). This was reported by the news website Turkmenportal. The negotiations took place on the sidelines of the international forum, which is being attended by a delegation from Tatarstan. During the talks, issues related to strengthening the partnership between Turkmenistan and Tatarstan, including in the trade, economic, cultural and humanitarian spheres, were discussed. The parties confirmed their mutual interest in developing traditionally friendly ties and expanding multilateral cooperation.
Turkmenistan and Georgia strengthen cooperation and political dialogue
05.08.2025On 5 August 2025, a meeting was held between Rashid Meredov, Minister of Foreign Affairs of Turkmenistan, and Maka Botchorishvili, Minister of Foreign Affairs of Georgia. This was reported by the Foreign Affairs Ministry of Turkmenistan. The interlocutors discussed a wide range of issues of Turkmen-Georgian cooperation, covering political, diplomatic, trade, economic, cultural and humanitarian spheres. They noted the importance of maintaining regular contacts, including mutual visits at the highest and senior levels, as well as holding regular consultations between the foreign ministries of the two countries. The ministers emphasised the high level of political dialogue and productive interaction in international organisations. The participation of the Georgian delegation in the Third United Nations Conference on Landlocked Developing Countries was further confirmation of the close partnership within the United Nations. The sides paid special attention to the prospects for expanding trade and economic relations, including in the transport, logistics and energy spheres, as well as to the development of cultural and humanitarian cooperation. The Foreign Affairs Ministry Heads expressed their readiness to further strengthen mutually beneficial cooperation based on the principles of trust and mutual respect.
Turkmenistan and Qatar discussed expanding bilateral ties
05.08.2025On 4 August, Deputy Chairwoman of the Cabinet of Ministers of Turkmenistan Bayramgul Orazgeldiyeva met with Qatar's Minister of State for International Cooperation at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs Maryam bint Ali Al-Misnad. This was reported by the news website Turkmenportal. During the negotiations, the parties discussed topical issues of strengthening bilateral interaction and expanding cooperation between Turkmenistan and Qatar. Particular attention was paid to promising areas of partnership of mutual interest. The main goal of the meeting was to develop diplomatic ties and deepen cooperation in various areas. Following the dialogue, the participants confirmed their commitment to continue working on joint initiatives and projects aimed at strengthening Turkmen-Qatari relations.
Armenian President calls for expanded international cooperation at LLDC 3
05.08.2025President of the Republic of Armenia Vahagn Khachaturyan addressed the Third United Nations Conference on Landlocked Developing Countries (LLDC 3). This was reported by the IIC of Turkmenistan. Vahagn Khachaturyan emphasised that landlocked countries face serious barriers, ranging from high logistics costs to limited access to global markets. The President of Armenia called for coordinated efforts to overcome these challenges and achieve sustainable development goals. Separately, Vahagn Khachaturyan noted the need to remove political obstacles to the free movement of goods and people and stressed the importance of regional cooperation. The President of Armenia also called on the international community to include such countries in the processes of digitalisation and the ‘green’ transition. Vahagn Khachaturyan said that the Armenian government had launched an initiative aimed at strengthening peace and expanding transport and economic ties. According to the President of Armenia, only joint action will help improve the lives of more than 570 million people living in 32 landlocked countries.
Turkmenistan and Romania strengthen business ties
05.08.2025A meeting between Annamammet Annayev, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of Turkmenistan to Romania, and Ruxandra Serescu, Director General of the Constanta Chamber of Commerce, Industry and Agriculture, took place in Constanta. This was reported by the news agency Orient. The parties discussed prospects for economic cooperation, focusing on energy, logistics, construction, textiles, agriculture and investment. The Ambassador presented the economic potential of Turkmenistan and proposed establishing direct links with the Chamber of Commerce and Industry of Turkmenistan and the Union of Industrialists and Entrepreneurs of the country. During the meeting, possible formats for cooperation, memoranda, business forums and exchange of delegations were discussed. The Director General of the Constanta Chamber of Commerce and Industry expressed interest in developing the partnership, supported the idea of signing a memorandum and confirmed her readiness to invite Turkmen companies to exhibitions and fairs in Constanta.
Serdar Berdimuhamedov proposed developing a global programme for hydrogen energy
05.08.2025During his speech at the Third United Nations Conference on Landlocked Developing Countries (LLDC 3), President of Turkmenistan Serdar Berdimuhamedov proposed an initiative to create a global programme for the transition to hydrogen energy for 2030–2040. This was reported by Arzuw.news. The Head of State proposed to start discussing mechanisms for forming a hydrogen energy programme within the UN as early as 2026, emphasising Turkmenistan's readiness to actively participate in the development of this area and expand international cooperation in the field of renewable energy sources. Serdar Berdimuhamedov drew attention to the importance of compliance with international environmental standards and climate agreements by all participants in the global energy system — producers, transit countries and consumers of energy resources. In his speech, the President also recalled the earlier initiative to develop a global framework programme for the transition to a circular economy, emphasising that Turkmenistan consistently advocates the creation of an environmentally sustainable production model that contributes to the preservation of the environment.
President of Turkmenistan proposes UN to step up efforts on Caspian and Aral Sea issues
05.08.2025President of Turkmenistan Serdar Berdimuhamedov addressed the Third United Nations Conference on Landlocked Developing Countries (LLDC 3). The Head of State called for intensifying international cooperation on two key environmental initiatives of Turkmenistan – the creation of the Caspian Environmental Platform and the development of a specialised UN programme for the Aral Sea, according to Arzuw.news. Serdar Berdimuhamedov emphasised the global nature of the environmental challenges facing the Caspian Sea, including its shallowing, and noted the need for coordinated international efforts. He recalled the Caspian Environmental Initiative presented by Turkmenistan at the 78th session of the UN General Assembly, calling for the development of this platform as a basis for global environmental dialogue. The President of Turkmenistan also reaffirmed his country's unwavering position on the preservation of the Aral Sea and called for the creation of a specialised UN programme for the Aral Sea basin. According to him, the rational use of water resources is an important part of the international agenda, and equal access to water is a fundamental human right.
Serdar Berdimuhamedov chaired the Third UN Conference on Landlocked Developing Countries
05.08.2025The Secretary-General of the United Nations has officially announced the election of President of Turkmenistan Serdar Berdimuhamedov as Chairman of the Third UN Conference on Landlocked Developing Countries (LLDC 3). This was reported by Turkmenportal with reference to the online newspaper ‘Neutral Turkmenistan’. In his address, the Head of State emphasised the strategic importance of the conference for promoting key UN initiatives, including the Agenda for Sustainable Development and the Pact for the Future. He noted the importance of a comprehensive approach to addressing the humanitarian, economic, social and environmental problems faced by landlocked countries. A separate emphasis was placed on Turkmenistan's social policy aimed at protecting and supporting citizens, developing human potential and ensuring a high level of medical care. During the forum, Turkmenistan presented a new international initiative aimed at promoting sustainable development and strengthening global partnership. Serdar Berdimuhamedov also recalled Turkmenistan's earlier international proposals and confirmed the country's readiness to continue actively participating in addressing global challenges and expanding international cooperation. The conference continues with the participation of representatives of landlocked countries and international organisations.
King Mswati III at the UN Conference emphasised the importance of international cooperation
05.08.2025King Mswati III of Eswatini delivered a speech at the Third United Nations Conference on Landlocked Developing Countries. He expressed gratitude to the Government of Turkmenistan for the high level of organisation of the forum and noted that its agenda fully reflects the aspirations of the kingdom, according to IIC. Addressing the Heads of States, UN representatives and international delegations, the King stressed that the lack of access to the sea is not just a geographical feature, but a serious challenge to development. ‘High transport costs and vulnerability to external shocks are slowing our progress, but these difficulties encourage us to think innovatively and seek opportunities for cooperation,’ Mswati III said. According to the monarch, Eswatini is focusing on infrastructure development, railway modernisation, digital transformation and simplification of customs procedures. These measures are aimed at improving regional connectivity, reducing trade costs and increasing competitiveness. In the field of innovation, Eswatini is actively developing a science and technology park, promoting biotechnology and digital solutions, expanding access to broadband and improving digital literacy. At the same time, electronic customs systems are being improved, which speeds up trade and promotes regional integration. ‘Partnership is the foundation of Eswatini's strategy,’ the King emphasised, adding that the country has already ratified the WTO Agreement on Trade Facilitation and, together with the World Bank, has launched a national trade information portal to facilitate business access to global markets. In conclusion, Mswati III expressed confidence that international cooperation and regional infrastructure development would help landlocked countries turn their geographical constraints into new opportunities.
The President of Kazakhstan spoke at the Third UN Conference in Turkmenistan
05.08.2025The President of the Republic of Kazakhstan, Kassym-Jomart Tokayev, delivered a speech at the opening ceremony of the Third United Nations Conference on Landlocked Developing Countries (LLDC 3). This was reported by IIC. The Head of State expressed his gratitude to the President of Turkmenistan for the high level of organisation of the forum and the warm welcome, and also thanked UN Secretary-General António Guterres for his continued support for landlocked countries. In his speech, Kassym-Jomart Tokayev recalled that it was Kazakhstan that initiated the first UN conference on LLDCs in 2003, laying the foundation for the international agenda in this area. According to him, the current meeting at the ‘Avaza’ National Tourist Complex gives new impetus to the joint efforts of 32 states representing more than 500 million people. The President of Kazakhstan stressed that limited transport and logistics connectivity remains a key challenge for landlocked countries. High transit and trade costs reduce their competitiveness and increase social vulnerability, while global conflicts, sanctions and supply chain disruptions create additional challenges. Kassym-Jomart Tokayev called for such states to be considered full partners in shaping the global agenda, strengthening international cooperation. He expressed his full support for the Awaza Programme of Action for 2024–2034, which, in his opinion, serves as a ‘roadmap to a sustainable, inclusive and interconnected future.’
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