Turkmenistan and UN Focus on Advancing SDG Financing Initiatives

The meeting began with welcoming remarks from the Head of the Strategic and Sustainable Development Department of the Ministry of Finance and Economy of Turkmenistan, Mr. Orazmuhammet Ashirov. Mr. Dmitry Shlapachenko, UN Resident Coordinator in Turkmenistan, also addressed the participants, emphasizing the significance of collaborative efforts in ensuring sustainable development.

Maksat Keshiyev, Partnership and Development Finance Specialist from the UN Resident Coordinator's Office, presented the 2024 Report of the UN Inter-Agency Task Force on Financing for Development. This presentation highlighted the latest global trends and stressed the importance of robust financing mechanisms to support the SDGs.

During the meeting, several important topics were addressed. A representative from the Ministry of Finance and Economy, Ms. Elita Shumskaya, shared updates on the progress and plans for the current cycle of the Integrated National Financing Framework (INFF) for SDG. A UNDP analyst, Mr. Akmyrat Danatarov, introduced a new edition of the Joint UN Programme Concept aimed at improving the public financial management system in Turkmenistan. An economist from the UN Resident Coordinator's Office, Mr. Vladimir Valetka, highlighted the significant role of key UN joint programmes in mobilizing financing for the National Commitments at SDG Summit. 

The meeting also provided an overview of the financial landscape, with the head of “Turkmen Investment Company”, Mr. Azat Orazmuhammedov, discussing advanced investment mechanisms introduced in the country, and an expert from a private company “Gadamly Osush”, Ms. Maral Orazova, outlining services available in the country's insurance market.

Interactive question-and-answer sessions and discussions allowed participants to engage in in-depth conversations about the topics presented. This exchange of ideas and best practices underscored the commitment of both the Government of Turkmenistan and the United Nations to innovative financing solutions for sustainable development.

The 10th meeting of the Joint Expert Group concluded successfully with a summary of the key points discussed and an agreement to continue these collaborative efforts. The outcomes of this meeting will play a crucial role in shaping the future of SDG financing in Turkmenistan, ensuring that the country remains on track to achieve its sustainable development goals.