Turkmenistan Presents Sustainable Development Strategy and SDG Progress to the UN
The High-Level Political Forum, under the auspices of ECOSOC, is underway at the UN Headquarters in New York City. The forum focuses on the global 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development. On July 15, the Turkmen delegation participated in the general debate of the high-level segment, presenting the country's key achievements and strategic initiatives on the international stage.
Speaking to the forum participants, the head of the Turkmen delegation, Deputy Minister of Finance and Economy Perhat Yagshiyev, emphasized that strategic partnership with the United Nations remains an absolute priority of Ashgabat's foreign policy. Turkmenistan sees lasting peace, stability, and security in the region and the world as the key condition for any sustainable progress.
Turkmenistan is demonstrating rapid progress in integrating the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) into public policy. Currently, 85% of SDG targets have been fully integrated into the country's national and sectoral development programs. 131 national targets and 175 target indicators have been approved.
The presentation placed particular emphasis on environmental issues, climate change, and the rational use of water resources—topics critical for all of Central Asia.
Ashgabat once again clearly stated its position: water issues in the region must be resolved strictly in accordance with universally recognized norms of international law and with mutual respect for the interests of all neighboring states. In this context, the delegates were reminded of the President of Turkmenistan's initiative to establish a specialized Regional Center to Combat Desertification for Central Asian countries.
At the same time, the country is actively developing a green economy, introducing environmentally friendly technologies into industry and consistently fulfilling international commitments to reduce methane emissions.
A key part of the presentation was a story about Arkadag, the region's first "smart" city. Built from the ground up on the principles of environmental safety, inclusiveness, and technological advancement, Arkadag is now part of an OSCE-funded project on developing climate-friendly cities and has received an impressive array of prestigious international awards. At the UN podium, the city was presented as a ready-made, practical example of how modern technologies can serve sustainable urbanization.
Turkmenistan continues to actively lobby for the interests of landlocked countries. Ashgabat views the development of large-scale East-West (including the Trans-Caspian route) and North-South transport corridors as a key tool for enhancing the sustainability of global trade and ensuring economic security on the continent.
Participation in the current forum also has important practical implications for Turkmen specialists. On the sidelines of ECOSOC, the delegation is actively studying best international practices for preparing Voluntary National Reviews (VNRs). The accumulated knowledge base and methodologies will be used in compiling Turkmenistan's third Voluntary National Review, which is scheduled to be presented at the UN in 2027.
