UN-Habitat Delegation Visits Turkmenistan to Promote Sustainable Urban Development

From September 5th to 9th, 2023, the delegation from the United Nations Human Settlements Program (UN-Habitat) embarked on a vital mission to Turkmenistan.

The delegation, consisting of Ms. Katja Schaefer, Interregional Advisor for Eastern Europe and Central Asia in the Program Development Branch, Global Solutions Department, and Mr. Herman Jean Pienaar, Lead of the Urban Laboratory, Planning, Finance, and Economics Section, City Practice Branch, Global Solutions Department, conducted a series of high-level meetings with Mr. Dmitry Shlapachenko, UN Resident Coordinator in Turkmenistan; Ms. Mahri Bashimova, Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs of Turkmenistan; Mr. Berdi Halykov, Deputy Minister of Construction and Architecture of Turkmenistan; Mr. Serdar Jorayev, Minister of Finance and Economy of Turkmenistan; Mr. Rahym Gandymov, Hakim (mayor) of Ashgabat City; Mr. Shamuhammet Durdylyev, Hakim (mayor) of Arkadag City; Mr. Deryaguly Orazov, Head of the Construction Directorate of Arkadag City; Mr. Nokerguly Atagulyev, Head of the Union Of Industrialists And Entrepreneurs Of Turkmenistan; representatives from the private sector specializing in construction and architecture; and urban planning officials to present a groundbreaking Concept Note.

The primary objective of the UN-Habitat delegation's visit was to introduce the Concept Note titled "Towards a Better Urban Future: Establishing UN-Habitat Ashgabat Office for Inclusive, Safe, Resilient, and Sustainable Cities and Communities in Turkmenistan". The delegation engaged in a comprehensive agenda during their visit, which included meetings with high-ranking officials and stakeholders in Turkmenistan.

The Concept Note presented by the UN-Habitat delegation demonstrates the United Nations' commitment to working in partnership with Turkmenistan to address urban development challenges and promote a brighter urban future for all citizens. This mission aligns with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), the UN-Government of Turkmenistan Sustainable Development Cooperation Framework for 2021-2025, and underscores the importance of inclusive and sustainable urbanization as a driver of positive change.

The visit of the UN-Habitat delegation marks a significant step forward in strengthening collaboration between Turkmenistan and the United Nations in the field of sustainable urban development. It is anticipated that this initiative will lead to transformative improvements in the urban landscape, contributing to the well-being and prosperity of Turkmenistan's residents.