The Civil Society Forum, held within the framework of the Third UN Conference on Landlocked Developing Countries (LLDC 3), opened in the ‘Avaza’ National Tourist Zone. This was reported by the IIC of Turkmenistan.

The official opening ceremony began with a welcome speech on behalf of the Government of Turkmenistan. Deputy Chairwoman of the Cabinet of Ministers Bayramgul Orazdurdyeva addressed the participants, emphasising the importance of civil society in shaping an inclusive and sustainable development agenda.

The forum paid special attention to the key role of civil society in implementing the Awaza Programme of Action (APoA), aimed at ensuring sustainable development in the LLDCs. Participants noted that the involvement of civil society organisations contributes to structural reforms, climate resilience, inclusive innovation and multilateral cooperation.

At the initiative of Member States, the Conference promotes a multilateral approach, which is seen as the basis for developing a new generation of support measures. These measures are aimed at transforming the economies of LLDCs, unlocking their potential and ensuring a sustainable, stable and prosperous future.