Turkmenistan participated in the UN High-Level Political Forum

A delegation from Turkmenistan, led by Deputy Minister of Finance and Economy Perhat Yagshiyev and including Permanent Representative of Turkmenistan to the UN Vepa Hajiyev, participated in the High-Level Political Forum on Sustainable Development, held under the auspices of the UN Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC) at United Nations Headquarters in New York. The delegation also included representatives of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the State Committee of Turkmenistan on Statistics.

The forum opened on July 7 and runs until July 15, 2026. The Turkmen delegation is participating in events from July 13 to 15. At the ministerial meeting held on July 13, heads of UN bodies and civil society representatives delivered policy statements.

ECOSOC President Lok Bahadur Thapa described the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) as a shared pledge to the planet and future generations. UN Secretary-General António Guterres called for the reform of the international financial architecture to implement the 2030 Agenda. UN General Assembly President Annalena Baerbock emphasized the importance of upholding the UN Charter and promoting the "Better Together" concept. Speaking on behalf of the younger generation, Jevon Choi—a representative of the youth wing—highlighted the significance of intergenerational equity and the redirection of global funding for the sake of the future.

The theme of the 2026 forum was transformative, equitable, innovative, and coordinated actions in support of the 2030 Agenda. This year, forum participants are examining in detail a cluster of Sustainable Development Goals: SDG 6 "Clean Water and Sanitation",  SDG 7 "Affordable and Clean Energy", SDG 9 "Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure", SDG 11 "Sustainable Cities and Communities",  and SDG 17 "Partnerships for the Goals".

Discussions on SDG 6 focus on the management of transboundary water resources and preparations for the UN Water Conference, to be held in Abu Dhabi in December 2026. Regarding SDG 7, the focus is on the transition to renewable energy sources and ensuring universal access to energy. SDG 9 addresses measures to support small and medium-sized enterprises and bridge the digital divide. SDG 11 covers issues related to reducing urban carbon emissions and adapting urban infrastructure. SDG 17 is traditionally dedicated to global partnerships and mobilizing resources to finance development.

Thirty-six states are presenting their Voluntary National Reviews (VNRs) at the forum. Turkmenistan previously presented VNRs in 2019 and 2023; its current participation is linked to preparations for the country's third national review, scheduled for 2027.