On 9 October, a meeting was held at the Mejlis of Turkmenistan with Ennio Boati, Acting Regional Representative of the Office of the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights for Central Asia. This was reported by the press office of the Mejlis of Turkmenistan.

The parties discussed Turkmenistan’s foreign policy, which is based on the principles of positive neutrality, peacefulness and mutually beneficial cooperation. They also reviewed UN General Assembly resolutions adopted on Turkmenistan’s initiative in the areas of energy security, sustainable transport, and the strengthening of peace and trust.

Particular attention was paid to improving legislation, the rule of law and the protection of human rights and freedoms. The participants discussed the role of the Ombudsman in developing the national human rights protection system and applying international best practice.

During the negotiations, issues of gender equality, the protection of women’s rights, support for families and social protection for people with disabilities were also raised.

In conclusion, the parties emphasised the importance of Turkmenistan’s parliamentary cooperation with the UN and its specialised agencies, including the Office of the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights. They expressed an interest in further cooperation to improve national legislation in line with universally recognised international standards.