The International Forum "Creative and Innovative Economy of Turkmenistan" was held in the capital on March 13-14. It was organized jointly by the government of the country, the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and the British Embassy in Ashgabat. The event was held in cooperation with the Ministry of Finance and Economy of Turkmenistan and the National Commission for UNESCO.

The forum brought together key representatives of government agencies, businesses, international organizations and experts to discuss strategies for the development of a dynamic and sustainable creative and innovative economy in Turkmenistan.

During the forum, special attention was paid to the role of creativity and innovation in diversifying the economy, stimulating entrepreneurship and ensuring sustainable development. The participants in the discussions touched upon the issues of modernizing cultural heritage industries, using digital technologies to grow the creative sector, mechanisms for attracting investment in entrepreneurship and the importance of inclusiveness in innovation.

UNDP Resident Representative in Turkmenistan Narine Saakyan emphasized: “Innovation and creativity are key factors for sustainable development. By developing a creative economy, Turkmenistan can diversify its economy, create jobs and empower the next generation of entrepreneurs. UNDP will continue to support the country’s efforts to create a vibrant and inclusive innovation ecosystem.”

British Ambassador to Turkmenistan Stephen Conlon noted the significant contribution of creative industries to the UK economy, citing the example that this sector generates a significant portion of GDP and provides millions of jobs. He expressed his delight at the support for this forum.

The forum became a platform for exchanging international experience and facilitated dialogue between stakeholders. Participants discussed ways to create effective support systems, activate the private sector and form an economy focused on innovation. Special attention was paid to issues of supporting women and youth in the creative sector.

In the run-up to the forum, an event was held in the Ish-Nokady coworking center, which brought together about a hundred representatives of creative professions from all over Turkmenistan to exchange knowledge and establish cooperation.

The forum also hosted an exhibition demonstrating a variety of creative areas, including the work of artisans, designers and masters in the field of textiles, ceramics, jewelry and arts and crafts, as well as modern developments in the field of robotics and creative tourism, when tourists are involved in creative activities, master classes, studying local crafts and culture through practical experience.

Chinar Rustamova, Executive Secretary of the National Commission of Turkmenistan for UNESCO, noted the relevance of the development of creative and innovative economy and emphasized the importance of the new project of UNDP and the British Embassy in this area.

During the two days of the forum, the participants developed a number of key recommendations aimed at strengthening the investment climate, increasing the level of digital skills and developing cooperation between government agencies and creative entrepreneurs. All stakeholders confirmed their readiness for the further development of the creative economy in Turkmenistan, which will contribute to the diversification of the economy, the preservation of cultural heritage and ensuring inclusive growth.

ORIENT