UN ASG for Youth Affairs Visits Turkmenistan to Promote Youth Engagement and Strengthen Partnerships

During his visit, Mr. Paullier met with Mr. Dmitry Shlapachenko, the UN Resident Coordinator and the UN Country Team, where he discussed the progress of the United Nations Sustainable Development Cooperation Framework (UNSDCF) and the role of young people in advancing its goals. He also engaged with the UN Communications and Human Rights groups, emphasizing the importance of youth-informed messaging, inclusivity, and rights-based approaches in the UN’s work across Turkmenistan.

Mr. Paullier held productive meetings with Mr. Rashid Meredov, Deputy Chairman of the Cabinet of Ministers and Minister of Foreign Affairs of Turkmenistan, and other Government officials, where he reaffirmed the UN’s support for national policies that prioritize youth development, education, employment, and participation in decision-making. The discussions focused on opportunities to expand youth-centered programs and promote youth leadership in addressing national and global challenges.

A highlight of the visit was Mr. Paullier’s meeting with young SDG Ambassadors, where he applauded their creativity, leadership, and commitment to building a better future. He encouraged them to continue amplifying the voices of young people in their communities and to remain active partners in achieving the 2030 Agenda.

Mr. Paullier’s visit underscored the UN’s strong partnership with Turkmenistan and its continued commitment to empowering young people as key agents of change for a more just, inclusive, and sustainable world.