National and International experts and researchers share serious concerns regarding the availability of minimum environmental flow in the Central Asian region, particularly within the Amu Darya Basin. The lower reaches of this and other rivers in our country suffer from reduced flow and poor water quality, which negatively impacts ecosystems and threatens biodiversity. In addition to the ongoing Aral Sea crisis, the situation in the Turkmen Aral Sea region is becoming increasingly acute.
Environmental water flows are essential, as they determine the volume, regime, and quality of water flows required to sustain freshwater ecosystems and the human livelihoods that depend on them. Key issues for the Central Asian region regarding the increase of environmental flow volumes were addressed at the Regional Seminar “Implementing Environmental Flow in the Central Asian Region: From Expert Analysis to Practical Actions,” held in Tashkent in June 2026 under the Blue Peace Central Asia Project. The initiative is led by the International Water Management Institute (IWMI) and the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN), with financial support from the Swiss Agency for Development and Cooperation. K. Ovezmuradov, a member of the SUE “Tebigy Kuvvat” and the Aarhus Center in Turkmenistan, participated in the event; he currently also serves as the National Consultant on Institutional Coordination/Regional Water Management issues for the UNDP “Conservation of Land Resources in the Aral Sea Basin” project. Turkmen specialists from relevant organizations also took part in this specialized event.
An important highlight of the Regional Seminar was the acknowledgment that Central Asian countries are currently transitioning from an engineering- and resource-driven approach to integrated water management models that incorporate environmental aspects. It was also emphasized that environmental flows must be considered part of a broader water resource management system. At the seminar, the Blue Peace Central Asia Project presented the results of its study on the current status of environmental flows in Central Asian countries, along with a comparative analysis of the institutional, legal, and scientific-technical readiness of the region’s nations to implement these flows. This analysis also assessed readiness to adopt modern global approaches, practices, and tools in the field of environmental flows.Regarding the readiness analysis, presentations were delivered by representatives from the Central Asian countries, including a report by K. Ovezmuradov. This presentation outlined and proposed solutions for environmental challenges at both the national and regional levels, including joint action plans within water diplomacy aimed at strengthening regional cooperation to secure environmental flows. As a final outcome of this segment of the seminar, participants identified existing barriers to accelerating the implementation of environmental flows and agreed on next steps to integrate environmental flows into the national water management systems of Central Asian countries.
Aspects regarding tool validation were reviewed, including the presentation and discussion of applied tools such as the “E-Flow Glossary” web application prototype, alongside IWMI approaches and methodologies for implementing environmental flows in Central Asian countries, specifically the IWMI environmental flow calculator. In terms of methodology, this calculator is proposed as the foundational baseline and unified tool for implementing environmental flows across the Central Asian region.
Furthermore, representatives from Turkmenistan were actively involved in strategic planning sessions, which covered the presentation and endorsement of the Regional Roadmap and the Concept of the Community of Practice (CoP) on Environmental Flow, as well as the formation of the regional CoP platform. Based on the outcomes of this segment of the seminar, strategic recommendations were outlined for implementing the Regional Roadmap for environmental flow integration, including specific points concerning Turkmenistan.
The conceptual and organizational frameworks for the operations of the Community of Practice on Environmental Flow were also presented, detailing the positions and roles of Central Asian countries based on their achievements and contributions. For Turkmenistan, the designated role is that of a Strategic Observer, focusing on step-by-step engagement through international projects and technical adaptation, with the status defined as a Preparatory Phase to allow participation without rigid obligations for a smooth and comfortable integration.
This regional cooperation proved to be highly valuable, enabling information exchange, the sharing of national water management experiences, and the mutual presentation of visions and ideas. The regional seminar was thoroughly practice-oriented and united the countries of Central Asia in a format of truly effective collaboration, facilitating the coordination of efforts to recognize ecosystems as legitimate water users and to integrate environmental flows into water resource management systems. The seminar served as a platform to discuss the transition from theoretical analysis to practical implementation, including the future harmonization of approaches in water resource and ecosystem management at the regional level. The work accomplished during the seminar can be seen as part of the expert support and facilitation of dialogue among national agencies, international water management structures (including IFAS), and the UNDP Aral project. This dialogue aims to develop a unified position on sustainable water management measures, optimize institutional structures, and prepare specialized analytical materials on the role of environmental releases in preserving biodiversity.
Over the past decade, contradictions between actual environmental flows and the fulfillment of environmental treaty obligations have significantly worsened the ecological situation. The crisis in the Aral Sea region, including Turkmenistan, could deteriorate even further if irreversible water withdrawals from the Amu Darya continue. Joint efforts by experts and other stakeholders are urgently needed to overcome narrow sectoral agendas, address the dominance of the agricultural sector in water consumption, protect vulnerable ecosystems, improve access to relevant data, and enhance overall coordination to meet agreed-upon flow volume obligations. Along with national efforts, this fully applies to the transboundary and interstate levels.
The cooperation between the civil sector in Turkmenistan and international institutions is reaching a qualitatively new level. From June 15 to 20, 2026, a delegation from the Konrad Adenauer Foundation (KAS), led by Mr. André Algermissen, the Regional Representative of the Foundation for Central Asia, arrived in Turkmenistan for an official visit.
As with previous visits, the delegation’s agenda included meetings with representatives of both government agencies and civil society.
On June 16, a meeting was held with representatives of the Mejlis (Parliament) of Turkmenistan, specifically the Committee on Environmental Protection, Natural Resources, and the Agro-Industrial Complex, and the Committee on International and Inter-Parliamentary Relations.
As noted during the meeting at the Mejlis, the Memorandum of Understanding and Cooperation signed in Ashgabat in April 2025 between the Public Association «Nature Preserving Society of Turkmenistan» (NPST) and the Konrad Adenauer Foundation in Central Asia solidified the parties’ commitment to implementing systemic initiatives in key areas. These include joint actions on projects aimed at improving the environmental situation in the Central Asian region, enhancing environmental education in educational institutions across Central Asia, fostering and developing environmental awareness among citizens, and promoting public participation in environmentally significant decision-making.
On the same day, a series of expert seminars under the general title «Strengthening the Role of Youth in Responding to Climate Change Risks in Turkmenistan» commenced at the «Ish Nokady» co-working center in the «Arkach» shopping and entertainment center in Ashgabat. On June 18, the seminar series continued in the conference hall of the «Charlak» Hotel in the city of Turkmenbashi. The events were organized by the Nature Preserving Society of Turkmenistan in cooperation with the Konrad Adenauer Foundation and with the support of the «Tebigy Kuwwat» Public Association Enterprise.The Ashgabat seminar brought together representatives of public organizations, active civil society youth, and the media. The Turkmenbashi seminar was attended by representatives of public organizations, the Hazar State Nature Reserve, the administration of the Balkan velayat (province), educational institutions, and the media.
At the opening of the sessions, the moderator of the dialogue platforms, Berkeliy Atayev, Director of the «Tebigy Kuwwat» Public Association Enterprise, floor to Serdar Allekov, Chairman of the Central Council of the NPST, and Mr. André Algermissen for their welcoming remarks.
Serdar Allekov noted:
– Our structure spans all regions of the country, but we do not stop there. We are breaking stereotypes, introducing innovations, and teaching young people to translate complex environmental protocols into tangible actions. Our main distinguishing feature is an extensive network covering 100% of the territory of Turkmenistan. We successfully combine a rich history with modern innovative formats, turning the requirements of environmental protocols into applied solutions.
He emphasized that he highly values the cooperation with the Foundation, as evidenced by the Memorandum of Understanding and Cooperation signed in Ashgabat in 2025. He also stressed their readiness to collaborate, share experiences, and actively engage and train the younger generation.
Mr. André Algermissen presented a comprehensive vision of the climate agenda. In his speech, he outlined the primary climate targets:
• Climate neutrality by 2045.
• Reduction of emissions by 65% by 2035.
• Expansion and utilization of renewable energy sources.
• Protection and restoration of ecosystems and biodiversity.
He emphasized that young people play a crucial role in climate and environmental protection worldwide, including in Germany. Their involvement influences policy, public awareness, innovation, and daily behavior. He highlighted youth activism in Germany, specifically referencing the «Fridays for Future» movement. In this regard, he underscored the importance of raising public awareness and educating the new, well-informed generation globally. This is the core mission of the Foundation, achieved through knowledge exchange, training sessions, seminars, educational grants, conferences, and roundtables. These platforms enable young people to hear and understand alternative perspectives and policy criteria, exchange experiences, and voice their opinions in an argumentative and professional manner.
The moderator, Berkeli Atayev, Director of «Tebigy Kuwwat», delivered a presentation titled «Urbanization in the context of Climate Change.» He detailed how modern cities can adapt to rising temperatures and resource scarcity while maintaining the quality of life for citizens, drawing the audience’s attention to recent innovations in urban environments. He provided examples of effective approaches along with specific figures for current trends and future projections. How do we build cities free from extreme heat? How do we transform concrete «jungles» into comfortable spaces? He demonstrated that this is a matter not only of architecture but of survival.
Special emphasis during the seminars was placed on the potential of youth. Representatives of civil society presented their initiatives, highlighting that their implementation requires not only resources but also professional competencies, such as project management skills, leadership, and proficiency in digital technologies to drive social change.
Guncha Yusupova, Chairwoman of the Public Organization «Ecological Movement of Turkmenistan», gave a presentation titled «The Role of the Public in the Development of the Eco-Movement of Turkmenistan.» She spoke about her organization’s focus on establishing accessible digital databases of environmental information and conducting active public outreach.
Merdan Arazmedov, Head of the General Department of the NPST, presented a report titled «Activism and the Youth Movement: Youth Participation in Climate Initiatives.» He analyzed successful local and international case studies where volunteers became the linchpin of environmental projects. He elaborated on youth volunteerism, providing examples of how personal initiative transforms into successful climate projects.
Ovlyaguly Kurbanov, Director of the Balkan velayat Branch of the NPST, speaking in Turkmenbashi, focused on regional specificities in his presentation, «Environmental Protection Activities of the Balkan velayat in the context of Climate Change.» He emphasized the conservation of fragile Caspian ecosystems and outlined the specific nature of environmental work in the Caspian region, focusing on the protection of unique ecosystems amid a changing climate.
The seminars proved to be more than a mere series of meetings; they fostered an intensive exchange of experience between participants and speakers. Moving forward, the organizers took note of several key proposals from the participants: establishing an application process for young people from Turkmenistan to access the scholarship programs of the Konrad Adenauer Foundation, organizing long-term certified seminars featuring international experts, and maintaining feedback channels for future cooperation.
On May 4, 2026, the Asia-Pacific Regional Meeting of the Policy Forum on Development (PFD 2026) in Jakarta, Indonesia, concluded its two-day event, bringing together experts from 40 countries.
On the first day of the Forum, participants took part in three sessions. On the second and final day, they continued their work by discussing key issues in the following three sessions.Within Session 4, “Global Gateway Strategy and Just Transition: Localizing Global Gateway in the Asia-Pacific Region (APAC),” moderated by Ms. Michela Tomasella — Head of Sector for Dialogue with Civil Society and Foundations at the European Commission’s Directorate-General for International Partnerships (G2) — an overview of the Global Gateway initiative’s operations in the Asia-Pacific region was presented. Additionally, the session examined local resource management in the context of the strategy’s implementation, using specific case studies.
Participants split into two working groups to analyze practical cases and formulate specific recommendations for Global Gateway projects in the region, aiming to strengthen partnerships and deliver benefits to local communities:
Group A: Renewable Energy and Critical Raw Materials (CRM).
Group B: Urban and Rural Climate Resilience.
Session 5: “Climate Mobility: From Displacement to Decent Lives.”
This session addressed the challenges associated with climate-induced migration in the region. Climate mobility was framed as a legitimate adaptation strategy capable of providing people with decent sources of income and a secure future. The event opened with a panel discussion featuring invited experts, followed by breakout sessions in three sub-regional groups: the Pacific, Southeast Asia, and other sub-regions.
At the end of the session, conclusions were summarized and insights were shared during a general plenary meeting.
Session 6: Concluding SessionIn the final session, participants were given the opportunity to highlight priority recommendations based on the outcomes of the meeting, evaluate the event, and deliver closing remarks. Below is a brief summary of the preliminary two-day report:
Climate Finance
Fulfill climate commitments (including ODA) and provide local structures with access to flexible instruments: funds, small grants, green bonds, cooperative and blended finance.
Climate Investment
Direct funds toward peace and prosperity, as climate change exacerbates local crises. Investments must guarantee decent work, the self-determination of indigenous peoples, and the rights of vulnerable groups (women, youth, and people with disabilities).
Equal Partnership
Make equality the foundation of the Global Gateway strategy through inclusive governance, accountability, community information, and dialogue with local authorities.
The Role of Civil Society Organizations (CSOs) and Local Authorities
Involve CSOs and local authorities as co-creators (rather than mere implementers) during the planning phase. Transparency within Global Gateway processes is essential to protect the rights of people on the ground.
Capacity Building
Train local communities, CSOs, and authorities, ensuring their leadership and active participation in climate projects.
On June 2, 2026, driven by a spirit of broad international cooperation, the Regional Meeting of the Policy Forum on Development (PFD) for Asia and the Pacific opened in the Indonesian capital, Jakarta. This prestigious gathering brought together over 100 European Union officials, civil society leaders, and representatives of local organizations. They all united around a single, urgent mission: to breathe local life into global climate ambitions.
Central Asia was represented by civil society stakeholders from Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, and Uzbekistan. Berkeli Atayev, Director of the Enterprise of the “Tebigy Kuvvat” Public Organization and representative of the Aarhus Center in Turkmenistan, is participating in this global dialogue.
The introductory session was moderated by Ms. Michela Tomasella, Head of Sector for Dialogue with Civil Society and Foundations at the European Commission’s Directorate-General for International Partnerships (G2). She welcomed all participants and officials, including the honorable ambassadors of Greece and Romania to Indonesia, and outlined the goals and objectives of the 2-day forum (PFD 2026).
Welcome remarks were then delivered by: Mr. Leonardo A. A. Teguh Sambodo, Expert Staff for Food, Natural Resources, and Environment at the Ministry of National Development Planning of Indonesia (Bappenas); Mr. Sujiro Seam, EU Ambassador to the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN); and Dr. Bernadia Irawati Tjandradewi, Secretary General of the United Cities and Local Governments Asia Pacific (UCLG ASPAC).
Session 1, titled “Localizing the Climate Agenda for Shared Prosperity,” featured a panel discussion dedicated to different paradigms of climate action as a development priority rooted in equity.
Ms. Shivangi Hasmukhlal Chavda, India Programme Manager at the Global Network of Civil Society Organisations for Disaster Reduction (GNDR), moderated the panel session. The discussion aimed at understanding various forms of climate finance (beyond the public sector and Official Development Assistance — ODA), as well as the roles of different actors, including governments, local authorities, banks, the EU, civil society organizations, and foundations.
The panel speakers included: Ms. Monalisa Kashyap, Programme and Advocacy Coordinator for the Asia and Pacific Youth Committee of the International Cooperative Alliance (ICA-AP); Mr. Jodel Dacara, WINGS Regional Coordinator for Asia Pacific; Ms. Emeline Siale Ilolahia, Executive Director of the Pacific Islands Association of Non-Governmental Organisations (PIANGO); and Ms. Pefi Kingi, Coordinator of Pacific Migration Partners, a partner organization of PIANGO.
The second session, “Rethinking Climate Governance and Financing,” explored creative and innovative financing models to understand how climate finance, loss and damage funds, and adaptation funding can be co-designed, managed, and monitored by local communities. The panel, moderated by Ms. Usha Menon (GNDR), focused on finding alternative, community-driven economic pathways. Speakers for this session included: Ms. Lazina Rahman (Asian Development Bank), Ms. Maimunah Mohd Sharif (former Executive Director of UN-Habitat), Mr. Suhrit Bajwa (EdelGive), Ms. Elenita San Roque (Association of Asian Confederation of Credit Unions), and Mr. Ravi Ranjan Kumar Guru (All India Institute of Local Self-Government).
In the afternoon, the forum split into specialized breakout groups under Session 3, “Just Climate Finance, Business, and Partnerships.” Here, abstract financial concepts were tightly linked with strict ethical principles. A particular emphasis was placed on compliance with the EU Corporate Sustainability Due Diligence Directive (CSDDD) to guarantee that “green” investments are never made at the expense of social safeguards and human rights.
At the conclusion of the day’s work, the forum participants reconvened for a general plenary session. The breakout group facilitators presented their findings to finance experts. The subsequent analysis served as a prime example of open, honest, and constructive dialogue.
Ultimately, the first day of the Jakarta meeting left a strong, positive impression on the participants. Everyone arrived at a unanimous conclusion: a massive and genuine green transformation in the Asia-Pacific region will remain a mere dream unless it is anchored by three interconnected pillars: deeply localized governance, radically inclusive partnerships, and a fair, uncompromising financial architecture.
The “Tebigy Kuwwat” enterprise of the Public Association “Nature Preserving Society of Turkmenistan” and the Association of legal entities in the form of association “Civil Alliance of Kazakhstan” have concluded a Memorandum of International Cooperation.The document mandates the development and strengthening of international cooperation between non-governmental organizations of the Republic of Kazakhstan and Turkmenistan in the socio-humanitarian sphere, including issues related to the development of civil society, education, youth policy, volunteerism, public diplomacy, and expert interaction, as well as the organization and implementation of joint events, projects, and initiatives of mutual interest.
Led by Banu Ganiyevna Nurgaziyeva, the “Civil Alliance of Kazakhstan” is one of the largest national associations, encompassing over 8,000 non-profit organizations across the country. The Civil Alliance of Kazakhstan is also one of the main organizers of the Civil Forum of Kazakhstan, which is held biennially in Astana.
The parties signing the Memorandum of Cooperation reached this decision while participating in major international events held in Baku, the capital of Azerbaijan:
On May 18, 2026, the 13th World Urban Forum (WUF13) commenced its week-long program at the Baku Olympic Stadium in Azerbaijan. WUF was launched in 2002 by the United Nations Human Rights Settlements Programme (UN-Habitat) to address one of the most pressing global challenges of our time: rapid urbanization and its impact on communities, cities, economies, climate change, and policy. The Forum operates as a non-legislative technical platform where experts exchange insights during the years when the UN-Habitat Governing Council does not meet, gathering participants from 160 countries biennially in different host cities and nations.
The delegation of Turkmenistan is represented by officials from the Ministry of Energy, the Ministry of Finance and Economy, the Ministry of Industry and Construction Production, the Ministry of Construction and Architecture, the State Committee for the Construction of the City of Arkadag under the President of Turkmenistan, the Hakymlik (Municipality) of Ashgabat, the Chamber of Commerce and Industry, and the Arkadag Smart City administration. A massive exhibition center, known as the Urban Expo, was set up across the vast venue of WUF13, featuring national pavilions from numerous countries worldwide. The Pavilion of Turkmenistan showcased products and achievements of the participating ministries and agencies, including traditional souvenirs, hand-woven carpets, a model of an Akhal-Teke horse, a replica of the Arch of Neutrality, and architectural models of the newly developed Arkadag Smart City. Visitors to the National Pavilion were provided with well-illustrated promotional materials on domestic innovative urban development solutions, presented with a wide selection of medicinal mountain herbs and teas, and, in line with traditional hospitality, treated to local sweets, including the internationally acclaimed chocolate-covered melon candies.
The official opening of the Forum was held at the highest level, attended by heads of state and high-ranking officials from various nations. In the Dialogue B Hall, representatives of UN-Habitat and other international organizations delivered welcoming remarks to the participants. The popular Turkish singer Haluk Levent and his band, who traveled to the forum as special guests, performed several songs during the event. Civil society representatives from Turkmenistan also participated in WUF13, having previously attended the General Assembly of the Global South NGO Platform on May 14 and the 2nd Solidarity Forum of NGOs of the Organization of Turkic States (OTS) member states on May 16 in Baku.
It is widely recognized that amid rapid urbanization, non-governmental organizations serve as a vital link between citizens, businesses, and the state, ensuring that the interests of local communities are integrated into the design of smart and inclusive cities. They transform global partnerships by translating international sustainable development standards (such as the UN SDGs) to the local level and building expert networks to exchange best practices in environmental protection, transport, and affordable housing. For this reason, the organizers of WUF13 placed a strong emphasis on engaging civil society organizations in the work of the World Urban Forum.Consequently, on May 19, the WUF13 NGO Forum: Global Partnerships and Decision-Making was convened for the first time in the history of the World Urban Forum. Held in the Dialogue A Hall at the Olympic Stadium, the session was opened by Ms. Anacláudia Rossbach, Executive Director of the United Nations Human Rights Settlements Programme (UN-Habitat), and Mr. Hikmet Hajiyev, Assistant to the President of the Republic of Azerbaijan and Head of the Foreign Policy Affairs Department of the Presidential Administration.The event featured keynote addresses by Ms. Dima Al-Khatib, Director of the UN Office for South-South Cooperation; Ms. Aygun Aliyeva, Chairperson of the Board of the Agency for State Support to NGOs of the Republic of Azerbaijan; Mr. Luis Gallegos, President of the Board of Trustees of the United Nations Institute for Training and Research (UNITAR) and Deputy Secretary-General of the Global South NGO Platform for the Latin American Region; Mr. Christian Mensah, former Secretary of the UN-Habitat Board and Head of the Intergovernmental Relations Department; and Ms. Maimunah Mohd Sharif, Advisor on Sustainable Urbanization to the Government of Malaysia, former Under-Secretary-General and Executive Director of UN-Habitat, and former Mayor of Kuala Lumpur.
During the panel discussion titled “Sustainable and Inclusive Urban Planning: Global Partnerships and NGO Influence on Decision-Making,” civil society representatives from various regions of the world shared their experiences and proposed actionable ideas to enhance partnership and collective participation in improving living standards in cities and rural areas.
On May 21, 2026, the UN Building in Ashgabat hosted the ninth coordination meeting of the Climate Development Partners Group.Organized by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) in Turkmenistan in cooperation with the British Embassy in Ashgabat, the meeting was attended by: Ms. Narine Sahakyan, UNDP Resident Representative in Turkmenistan; Mr. Makhtumkuli Akmuradov, Ambassador and Advisor to the Department of International Organizations of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Turkmenistan; Mr. Stephen Conlon, His Britannic Majesty’s Ambassador to Turkmenistan; Mr. Ahmet Demirok, Ambassador of the Republic of Türkiye to Turkmenistan; Mr. Ahmed Al-Hameli, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the UAE to Turkmenistan; Mr. Gismat Gozalov, Ambassador of Azerbaijan to Turkmenistan; Mr. Chary Nurmuhammedov, Senior Coordination Officer, Strategic Planning / Head of the UN Resident Coordinator’s Office; Mr. Farhat Orunov, UNDP Programme Analyst; representatives of the EU Delegation to Turkmenistan; the OSCE Centre in Ashgabat; the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC) in Turkmenistan; Mr. Berkeli Atayev, Director of the “Tebigy Kuwwat” Public Association Enterprise and representative of the Aarhus Centre in Turkmenistan, along with other representatives of international organizations.
The meeting focused on climate action, the development of Turkmenistan’s next Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs), UN support for this process, and other ongoing partner initiatives aimed at advancing the country’s climate agenda.
The meeting was opened by Ms. N. Sahakyan, who provided a brief overview of the Climate Development Partners Group’s work. In particular, she noted that over a year had passed since their last meeting in the same building in February 2025. Since then, major environmental forums have taken place, including COP30 in Belém, Brazil, and the 2026 Regional Environmental Summit (RES) in Astana, Republic of Kazakhstan, where group members actively participated. Several national climate initiatives were also advanced, including the preparation and submission of the Vienna Report to the Climate Change Convention, the formulation and submission of the 4th National Communication to the UNFCCC, and, notably, the upcoming NDC 3.0 alongside other climate reporting. She highlighted that by the end of this year, three critical Conferences of the Parties (COP) to Rio Conventions will take place in the region: the UN Convention to Combat Desertification (Mongolia, August), the Convention on Biological Diversity (Armenia, October), and the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change (Antalya, Türkiye, November). Additionally, the VIII Assembly of the Global Environment Facility (GEF) will be held in Samarkand, Uzbekistan, this June, with the composition of Turkmenistan’s delegation currently under review. December will also feature the UN Water Conference, co-chaired by the UAE.
Mr. Stephen Conlon, His Britannic Majesty’s Ambassador to Turkmenistan, opened his remarks by stating that the UK is actively promoting COP31 and implementing large-scale climate action. The country’s primary efforts include:
• Net Zero Target by 2050• Energy Decarbonization
• Fossil Fuel Phase-out
• Green Transport: The authorities plan to end the sale of new petrol and diesel cars by 2030, transitioning entirely to electric vehicles (EVs).
• Building Energy Efficiency
• Funding and Support: The UK is allocating substantial funds to Carbon Capture and Storage (CCS) projects and supporting developing countries in combating climate threats.
Mr. M. Akmuradov provided a summary of the key climate action initiatives being undertaken in Turkmenistan:
– For a long time, the UN office and other organizations have been working jointly in Turkmenistan to establish a regional center for climate technologies. An agreement was reached with the FAO, which provided technical assistance; two experts have been hired and have commenced work. Within two months, they will finalize the operational documents for the office, covering the organizational and legal framework as well as the general operational parameters of the center.The next step toward launching the Center is the participation of Turkmenistan’s delegation in the Pre-COP 31 proceedings in Doha on June 8–18. This delegation should include senior leadership from the Ministry of Environmental Protection of Turkmenistan, the national focal point for the Green Climate Fund (GCF), and representatives from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. A similar practice was successfully implemented two years ago ahead of COP. Staff participation has already been secured with the support of the FAO project.
During the meetings in Doha, it is crucial to engage with potential donors for climate projects—primarily representatives from the GCF, alongside the GEF and the Adaptation Fund. Notably, six months ago at the ‘Dushanbe Invest-2025’ forum, the GCF offered to provide the funding necessary for the Center’s operations for at least a six-month budget cycle. Side negotiations with international organizations are scheduled on the margins of the Pre-COP. The tentative opening date for the Center is set for late October 2026, with an official announcement to follow at COP31. At the Astana RES 2026 in April, a dedicated session focused on Turkmenistan’s initiatives: the Regional Center for Climate Technologies and the Regional Center to Combat Desertification. Regarding the former initiative, absolute support was expressed by the Ministry of Ecology and Natural Resources of the Republic of Kazakhstan. Consequently, the consent of practically all regional countries has been secured. In this regard, we need to collectively map out a scenario for announcing the opening of the Center at COP31, as well as delivering a detailed presentation on its structure, objectives, and activities.
I would also like to highlight the EU-supported methane project, where the State Concern ‘Turkmengas’ is the primary stakeholder. Delivery of high-cost, compact portable units for capturing methane greenhouse gas leaks is currently expected. Furthermore, a National Strategy on Public Awareness of Renewable Energy Sources (RES) and Energy Efficiency has been drafted and is currently undergoing domestic interagency approval.
Mr. Ahmet Demirok delivered a presentation on the Republic of Türkiye’s preparatory work for the upcoming monumental environmental event—the Conference of the Parties to the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change (COP31), scheduled to take place on November 9–20, 2026, in Antalya:
– Today, we face not only the escalating impacts of climate change but also a complex global landscape shaped by geopolitical tensions, energy security challenges, and rising vulnerabilities. These compounding crises further underscore the urgent need for immediate climate action. Under these circumstances, Türkiye has been entrusted with the COP31 Presidency. This responsibility reflects our firm commitment to multilateralism and the advancement of the global climate agenda.This commitment is also deeply rooted in our history. Türkiye and Australia share a unique historical bond forged during the 1915 Gallipoli Campaign. Although our two nations met on the battlefield as fierce adversaries, the mutual respect between Turkish soldiers and the ANZAC (Australian and New Zealand Army Corps) troops laid the foundation for a lasting friendship. Over the subsequent decades, this military encounter evolved into a profound diplomatic and cultural partnership. Today, as both nations jointly honor their fallen heroes on those historic battlefields, we continue to exemplify how former adversaries can successfully build a peaceful, cooperative future.Türkiye’s special ties and cooperation with Australia in this process have resulted in a unique hosting format for COP31. Türkiye will host COP31 from November 9 to 20, 2026, and the Leaders’ Summit on November 11–12 in Antalya, while leading the Climate Action Agenda. Australia will serve as the ‘Chair of Negotiations.’Mr. Murat Kurum, our Minister of Environment, Urbanization, and Climate Change, has been designated as the COP31 President-Designate. Australia’s Minister for Climate Change and Energy, Mr. Chris Bowen, will serve as the Chair of Negotiations. Mr. Samed Ağırbaş, President of the Zero Waste Foundation, has been appointed as the UN High-Level Climate Champion. The candidacy for the Youth Climate Champion, Sally Higgins, was put forward by Australia.
Meanwhile, the Pre-COP meeting will take place in Fiji, with its high-level component hosted in Tuvalu on October 5–8, aligning with Australia’s priority to bring global attention to the vulnerability of the Pacific region. We believe this innovative model demonstrates how collaborative leadership can foster a more balanced and inclusive process.
We are working in close coordination with the COP29 and COP30 Presidencies—Azerbaijan and Brazil. As the COP31 Presidency, our approach is underpinned by three core principles: dialogue, consensus, and action. Through dialogue, we aim to rebuild trust; through consensus, we seek common ground; and through action, we are determined to translate commitments into tangible results.
Over the past 30 years, the international community has made significant progress in setting targets. However, we believe that the credibility of this process now hinges on delivering concrete results on the ground. This is why, over time, the COP Climate Action Agenda has become a vital pillar of the global climate regime. We intend to focus not only on negotiated outcomes but also on real-economy transformation and practical deliverables. Our goal is clear: to deliver an implementation-focused COP that accounts for diverse national circumstances.
We will announce the priorities of our ‘COP31 Climate Action Agenda’ at the 64th sessions of the UNFCCC Subsidiary Bodies in Bonn. Our priorities include: the clean energy transition, the ‘zero waste’ approach with an emphasis on climate mitigation, climate-resilient and low-emission cities, green industrialization, food security, oceans and seas, and the resilience of vulnerable regions such as the Mediterranean, alongside the Pacific and Africa.
We intend to incorporate the ‘zero waste’ concept as a critical dimension of mitigation efforts within our COP31 Action Agenda, given that waste is a major source of methane and carbon dioxide emissions. In this regard, we have appointed the President of the Zero Waste Foundation as the COP31 High-Level Climate Champion.
‘Rio Synergy’ will be one of our key focus areas, emphasizing that the integrated implementation of the three Rio Conventions is essential to protecting our planet through a holistic approach. We will also ensure that youth voices are at the heart of climate action through Youth Climate Envoys, as the ownership of the younger generation is our future.We are fully committed to conducting our Presidency in a transparent, inclusive, and consultative manner. Throughout this process, we are engaging with all Parties, regional groups, and stakeholders. We view international organizations as pivotal actors. In this context, we have established strategic partnerships with the International Energy Agency (IEA) and the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD), and we will co-chair the FAST (‘Food and Agriculture for Sustainable Transformation’) initiative launched under the leadership of the FAO.Together with the UNDP, we are currently developing the Climate Action Implementation Accelerator to provide a platform thatconnects the private sector, developing nations, and climate projects. Recently, on May 8–9, 2026, in collaboration with UN-Habitat and the UNECE, we organized a COP31 regional event on sustainable cities in Hatay. As part of the COP31 preparatory process, The Zero Waste Forum will be held in Istanbul on June 5–7, 2026, to raise global awareness and strengthen cooperation against food loss and waste.
We look forward to welcoming you to Antalya from November 9 to 20, 2026. (The official COP31 website, cop31.tr, was recently launched, featuring an integrated booking platform).
The Ambassador of the UAE to Turkmenistan, Mr. Ahmed Al-Hameli, delivered a presentation on water sustainability and the upcoming UN Water Conference, co-chaired by the UAE:
– We are speaking about three conventions: Combatting Desertification, Biodiversity, and Climate Change. The UAE attaches great importance to partnering with various countries in alignment with national priorities. The UAE recognizes that economic development is intricately linked to climate change. We see that environmental challenges are increasingly interconnected and require coordinated, practical solutions. The UAE fully supports economic cooperation and practical partnerships, and will assist countries in addressing climate change and adaptation challenges. Water remains a vital element for national economic development. The Abu Dhabi Fund has allocated 2 billion USD to finance partnership enhancement and the pursuit of solutions for natural resource sustainability.
In conclusion, Mr. Stephen Conlon and Ms. Narine Sahakyan summarized the meeting, thanking all participants and speakers for their time and informative presentations. They assured that all proposals raised during the session would be reviewed on the sidelines of the upcoming events outlined during this 9th meeting before the end of the year. The moderator and the Climate Development Partners Group placed special emphasis on Turkmenistan’s efforts to establish the Regional Center for Climate Technologies in Ashgabat and to officially announce its launch at COP31 in Antalya. The next (10th) meeting will take place in late November or early December 2026 to serve as a year-end reporting session and a review of the outcomes of COP31.
ASHGABAT, 21 May 2026 – The capital of Turkmenistan has seen the official launch of one of the year’s most anticipated cultural and gastronomic events: Turkish Cuisine Week. Held globally from May 21 to 27 under the auspices of the First Lady of the Republic of Türkiye, Mrs. Emine Erdoğan, this year’s international initiative marks its fifth anniversary under a profound and unifying motto: “Heritage at One Table” (Bir Sofrada Miras).
The special evening, which brought together representatives of ministries, the diplomatic corps, the media community, and bloggers in Ashgabat, was opened by the Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Republic of Türkiye to Turkmenistan, Ahmet Demirok. In his welcoming remarks, the head of the diplomatic mission emphasized that the Turkish table is not merely a place for a meal, but a sacred space of social harmony, where a visitor is traditionally welcomed as a “Guest of God” (Tanrı Misafiri).
Modern Turkish gastronomy represents a unique archive of “unwritten history.” As the direct heir to the culinary culture of the Seljuk and Ottoman Empires, it has embraced and refined flavors from a vast geographical expanse spanning from the Balkans and the Caucasus to the Middle East and the Mediterranean.
“Through events hosted by Turkish diplomatic missions, we share more than just food; we share our history, hospitality, and values,” H.E. Ambassador Demirok noted in his speech.
The organizers of the Week place a special emphasis on sustainability and conscious consumption. The cornerstone of this global project is the book entitled Turkish Cuisine with Timeless Recipes, published under the leadership of Emine Erdoğan. As noted in the Ambassador’s speech, traditional Turkish cuisine is inherently waste-free. For centuries, every single ingredient has been treated with deep respect, transforming potential food waste into exquisite homemade sauces, vinegars, and seasonal pickles.
In line with the framework established by the Ministry of Culture and Tourism of the Republic of Türkiye, the 2026 program is built around three key pillars:
• Dialogue: The dining table serves as the ancient language of communication, creating shared meanings for representatives of different cultures.
• Transformation: The continuous transmission of culinary memory and craftsmanship across generations.
• Archive: The recognition of gastronomy as the most reliable custodian of historical heritage.
Within these thematic areas, special attention this year is dedicated to iconic dishes that have become symbols of solidarity. Among them is the famous Keşkek (a hearty dish of wheat and meat), inscribed on the UNESCO Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity, as well as the legendary nomadic Mantı and the pinnacle of confectionery art, Baklava.
In an era looking for healthier and more conscious lifestyles, Turkish gastronomy offers ready-made solutions. Driven by a “field-to-table” philosophy, its rich biodiversity, abundance of fresh vegetables, grains, and olive oil dishes offer endless options for both vegetarian and traditional diets. Today, as gastronomy tourism has become a global trend, Türkiye is actively developing its “Ark of Taste” project (Ark of Flavours).
Throughout the evening, live music filled the air as classical Turkish compositions were performed on traditional instruments, the saz and kanun.
The gala evening in the Turkmen capital stood as a vivid testament to the unbreakable cultural ties between the two nations. The exquisite and authentic selection of delicacies presented to the guests was prepared with the generous sponsorship of the renowned company MADO, as well as through the dedication and talent of the diplomatic mission’s chefs and staff.
For an entire week, Anatolian lands are transformed into a global hub of historical and cultural flavors. However, anyone can partake in this heritage: all authentic recipes and detailed video tutorials have been made publicly available on the official portal turkishcuisineweek.com.
Turkish Cuisine Week in Ashgabat has only just begun, promising to be an unforgettable journey into the world of flavor, history, and genuine hospitality.
The 2nd Solidarity Forum of NGOs of the Organization of Turkic States (OTS) member states was held at the Marriott Hotel Absheron Baku on May 16, 2026. The event brought together representatives from 8 countries: Azerbaijan, Türkiye, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Turkmenistan, Uzbekistan, the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus, and Hungary.As a reminder, the inaugural Forum took place in Nakhchivan last November, leading to the establishment of the OTS NGO Platform. The initial leadership of the Platform was entrusted to Azerbaijan, with its permanent headquarters established in Baku.Reflecting on the platform’s first six months of operation, Mr. Azer Allahveranov, Secretary-General of the NGO Platform of OTS Member Countries, noted that the platform—established in Nakhchivan in November of last year—works toward mobilizing and strengthening bilateral, trilateral, and multilateral engagement among NGOs across the OTS member states.
The 2nd Solidarity Forum of OTS Member States’ NGOs, which gathered around 400 participants from over 40 countries, was held on the eve of the 13th World Urban Forum (WUF13) week. Participants drew special attention to the fact that WUF13 marks the first time this global event is hosted in the Turkic world.
Speaking at the opening ceremony, Mr. Fuad Mammadov, Chairperson of the Supervisory Board of the Agency on State Support to Non-Governmental Organizations of the Republic of Azerbaijan, emphasized: “Today, the Turkic world is experiencing a period of profound development, and opportunities for cooperation continue to expand. Nations united by common ethnic roots, history, language, culture, and traditions are increasingly seeking new forms of interaction, ranging from humanitarian projects to joint initiatives.”
The event continued with addresses from heads of numerous organizations across the OTS region, including:
Ms. Aygun Attar, Chairperson of the Türkiye-Azerbaijan Friendship, Cooperation and Solidarity Foundation;
Mr. Bobur Bekmurodov, Chairman of the Parliamentary Committee of Uzbekistan, Deputy Secretary-General of the Global South NGO Platform for the Asian Region, and Chairman of the “Yuksalish” Nationwide Movement (Uzbekistan);
Ms. Banu Nurgaziyeva, President of the Civil Alliance of Kazakhstan;
Mr. Rizvan Nabiyev, Member of the Supervisory Board of the Agency on State Support to Non-Governmental Organizations of the Republic of Azerbaijan;
Mr. Vusal Gasimli, Executive director of the Center for Analysis of Economic Reforms and Communication;
Mr. Muhammet Alper Hayali, Deputy Secretary-General of the Parliamentary Assembly of Turkic States (TURKPA);
Ms. Tanzila Rustamkhanli, Chair of the Working Group for the Azerbaijani-Turkmen Interparliamentary Relations, Member of the Working Groups on Interparliamentary Relations between Azerbaijan and Türkiye, Kazakhstan, and Uzbekistan.
All statements carried a strong call to scale up multifaceted cooperation among OTS countries, thereby contributing to the unity of the Turkic world. Ms. B. Nurgaziyeva proposed the creation of an OTS Volunteer Network under the auspices of the NGO Platform of OTS Member Countries. This initiative aims to unite volunteers, strengthen friendships, enhance the mutual understanding of OTS languages, and promote volunteerism through the lens of the rich culture and history of the Turkic world.
Following the conclusion of the main plenary session, the Forum hosts arranged a performance by a dance troupe showcasing popular traditional dances from the OTS member states. In line with a heartwarming tradition, the forum participants joined hands at the end, dancing alongside the performers to the organization’s melody.
For the first time within the framework of the second solidarity forum, three targeted bilateral sessions were held: Azerbaijan-Turkmenistan, Azerbaijan-Kyrgyzstan, and Azerbaijan-Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus cooperation.The Azerbaijan-Turkmenistan Cooperation Session featured key addresses by Berkeli Atayev, Director of the Public Association Enterprise (PAE) “Tebigy Kuwwat” and Representative of the Aarhus Centre in Turkmenistan; Mubarak Kurbanova, Chairperson of the “Tyaze Zaman” Public Association (Turkmenabat city); and Mergen Kepbanov, Director of the CAREC (Regional Environmental Centre for Central Asia) Project Office in Turkmenistan.In his speech, Mr. B. Atayev highlighted that the issue of urbanization is highly relevant. As cities and villages grow, it is crucial to modernize them to ensure comfortable living conditions, making them more environmentally sustainable through the integration of renewable energy sources. As a prime example, he highlighted Arkadag Smart City, a project incorporating all the latest technologies and innovative approaches into its development.
In the afternoon, the main hall hosted the Young Leaders Forum of OTS Member States’ NGOs. Orazgul Isgenderova, Assistant at the CAREC Project Office in Turkmenistan, spoke on behalf of Turkmenistan. She outlined the youth policies being implemented in the country and emphasized the active participation of young NGO leaders at both local and regional levels.
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