Ashgabat Climate Dialogue and New Institutions for Turkmenistan's Environmental Diplomacy
At a Cabinet meeting held on Saturday, July 18, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs Rashid Meredov presented President Serdar Berdimuhamedov a package of proposals designed to secure Ashgabat's status as an active champion of the climate agenda in Central Asia. The head of state fully endorsed the strategy.
A key element of the new diplomatic platform will be the establishment of the Ashgabat Climate Dialogue. This new institutional format for international cooperation is conceived as a permanent forum for global and regional discussions on developing effective measures to combat global warming.
The following set of steps is approved for the practical implementation of Turkmenistan's environmental initiatives:
Establishment of an Interdepartmental Commission — Coordination
A special government body will be established for regular negotiations with foreign governments, international organizations, and global funds.
Development of Action Plans for Regional Hubs — Practical Stage
Development of a governance structure and interaction mechanisms for two key institutions: the Regional Climate Technology Center for Central Asia and the Regional Center to Combat Desertification. The project is being implemented in close coordination with the UN.
Large-Scale Global Presentation — Promotion
Ashgabat's initiatives will be systematically promoted at major global forums and exhibitions through the opening of permanent national pavilions and presentation platforms for Turkmenistan.
A key point of the report was securing stable external funding for the launch of technology hubs. Turkmenistan intends to significantly expand direct contacts with key global donors and environmental institutions:
Green Climate Fund (GCF);
Global Environment Facility (GEF);
Adaptation Fund;
World Bank and Asian Development Bank (ADB).
Implementing advanced green technologies and combating desertification requires more than just political declarations, but also robust financial and technical support. The new strategy transforms Ashgabat into a regional innovation hub.
Having endorsed the presented package of documents, President Serdar Berdimuhamedov ordered the practical implementation of the approved plans.
