Serdar Berdimuhamedov Participated in the COP17 Summit in Yerevan
On October 16, President Serdar Berdimuhamedov participated in a leaders' summit in Yerevan, held as part of the preparations for the 17th Conference of the Parties to the UN Convention on Biological Diversity (COP17). The major forum brought together the UN Secretary-General, heads of state and government, leaders of environmental organizations, UN representatives, and international experts.
Addressing the heads of state and leaders of international institutions, the leader of Turkmenistan presented the country’s comprehensive strategy for preserving unique ecosystems and overcoming climate-related challenges.
The Head of State emphasized that the loss of biodiversity, land degradation, and desertification are inextricably linked processes that require a shift from declarations to practical mechanisms. In this context, the President detailed the national priorities outlined in Turkmenistan’s Strategy and Action Plan for the Conservation of Biodiversity for 2026–2035.
Focusing specifically on transboundary natural sites—ranging from the Karakum Desert to the Kopetdag mountain ranges and the Caspian coast—Serdar Berdimuhamedov recalled the successful inclusion of Turkmen territories in the UNESCO World Heritage site "Cold Winter Deserts of Turan" and called for expanded scientific monitoring of the Caspian and Aral Sea ecosystems.
A central theme of his address was the alignment of Ashgabat’s global initiatives with the objectives of UN environmental conventions. The leader of Turkmenistan proposed utilizing the "Ashgabat Climate Dialogue" platform to coordinate expert efforts and highlighted an initiative to establish a Regional Center for Combating Desertification for Central Asian countries in Ashgabat.
Particular emphasis was placed on safeguarding the interests of landlocked developing countries within the framework of the "Avaza Programme of Action" for 2024–2034. Serdar Berdimuhamedov urged the international community to ensure that countries in the region have equitable access to green finance, digital technologies, and systems for the transfer of genetic data. He expressed confidence that the upcoming 17th Conference of the Parties to the UN Convention on Biological Diversity would provide fresh momentum for fulfilling existing commitments and strengthening international partnerships.
