Ashgabat, Turkmenistan – 27 May 2025 – Today, the Government of Turkmenistan and the United Nations convened the Meeting of the Joint UN-Turkmenistan Steering Committee to assess progress and set strategic priorities under the ongoing 2021–2025 United Nations Sustainable Development Cooperation Framework (UNSDCF). The session, co-chaired by H.E. Mr. Rashid Meredov, Deputy Chairman of the Cabinet of Ministers and Minister of Foreign Affairs of Turkmenistan, and Mr. Dmitry Shlapachenko, UN Resident Coordinator in Turkmenistan, was held in a hybrid format in Ashgabat.
In his opening remarks, Mr. Shlapachenko highlighted the strong collaboration between the United Nations and the Government of Turkmenistan and reaffirmed the UN’s commitment to supporting national development goals aligned with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
The Committee reviewed national development priorities for 2025 and their integration into the Joint Work Plans (JWPs). Presentations by Results Group Co-Chairs emphasized sectoral priorities and identified key implementation risks and barriers. Following the discussion, the Steering Committee approved the JWPs for 2025, paving the way for continued, coordinated action across thematic areas.
A key focus of the meeting was the discussion on the next UN-Turkmenistan Sustainable Development Cooperation Framework and the Country Programme Documents (CPDs) for 2026–2030 for UNDP, UNFPA, and UNICEF. Ms. Selbi Hanova, Head of the UN Resident Coordinator’s Office, presented the strategic direction of the upcoming Cooperation Framework, which received broad support and endorsement from both parties.
The session also included a review of resource mobilization efforts and funding trends, led by Mr. Maksat Keshiyev from the UN RCO. This dialogue aimed to enhance alignment and effectiveness of development financing in support of UNSDCF implementation.
Concluding the meeting, Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs Ms. Mahri Bashimova and UN Resident Coordinator Mr. Shlapachenko reaffirmed the shared commitment to achieving sustainable development in Turkmenistan through inclusive and results-driven partnerships.