On 13 November, a session dedicated to the establishment of a Regional Centre for Climate Technologies for Central Asia was held at the Turkmenistan Pavilion during the 31st Conference of the Parties to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (COP31) in Antalya. This was reported by the press office of the Foreign Affairs Ministry of Turkmenistan.

The event, entitled ‘From Innovation to Practical Action: Establishing the Regional Centre for Climate Technologies for Central Asia’, was organised by the Turkmen side in collaboration with UN agencies. It was attended by representatives of countries in the region, international organisations and development partners.

During the session, the concept for the Centre – the establishment of which was proposed by Turkmenistan – was presented. The initiative received support from the states of Central Asia and was reflected in a number of bilateral and multilateral documents.

Participants also noted the statement made by the National Leader of the Turkmen people and Chairman of the Halk Maslahaty of Turkmenistan, Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov, at the COP31 Leaders’ Summit. According to the statement, the Centre will commence operations in early 2027.

The Head of the Department of International Organisations at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Turkmenistan outlined the main areas of activity for the new organisation. The Centre will be based in Ashgabat. Its tasks will include the introduction of modern climate technologies, the development of scientific and technical cooperation, and the mobilisation of international funding for regional projects.

During a panel discussion, representatives from Central Asian countries, the Food and Agriculture Organisation of the United Nations (FAO) and other international organisations discussed the Centre’s priorities, its institutional development and prospects for expanding partnerships.

Particular attention was paid to the rational use of water resources, the introduction of technologies adapted to climate change, the strengthening of regional capacity and the preparation of joint projects.

Following the meeting, participants emphasised the need for continued consultations between the countries of the region and international partners to ensure that the Centre begins operations in 2027.