During his visit to the Republic of Austria, the National Leader of the Turkmen people and Chairman of the Halk Maslahaty of Turkmenistan, Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov, held a meeting with Gerd Müller, Director-General of the United Nations Industrial Development Organisation (UNIDO). This was reported by AsmanNews.

The parties discussed the development of cooperation and Turkmenistan’s participation in UNIDO projects. The country’s contribution to promoting initiatives in the field of sustainable industrial development and energy security was noted.

Hero Arkadag emphasised the importance of cooperation with UNIDO. In this context, it was noted that on 29 June 2023, the city of Arkdag received a Certificate of Appreciation from UNIDO for the implementation of digital technologies and the development of a ‘smart’ city.

Prospects for cooperation in industry were discussed. Among the priorities are the development of the carpet industry, the expansion of textile exports, and UNIDO’s participation in the implementation of the second phase of the Arkadag city development project.

Particular attention was paid to the creation of a medical cluster in the city of Arkadag utilising modern technologies.

The parties reviewed issues on the climate agenda. Turkmenistan confirmed its readiness to develop a Roadmap for cooperation with UNIDO for 2026–2030 in the field of ‘green’ industry and the fight against climate change.

Turkmenistan’s regional initiatives were discussed, including the establishment of a Centre for Combating Desertification in Central Asia, the development of mechanisms for managing transboundary water resources, and the promotion of environmental projects in the Caspian Sea region.

The initiative to establish a UN Regional Centre for Climate Technologies in Central Asia was also noted. UNIDO confirmed its interest in further developing its partnership with Turkmenistan.

Following the meeting, the parties exchanged best wishes.