The delegation from Turkmenistan participated in the Mayors Summit on "Cities of the Future"

From September 30 to October 1, 2024, a delegation from Turkmenistan participated in the Mayors Summit on "Cities of the Future," organized by the United Nations Economic Commission for Europe (UNECE) in Geneva. The Turkmen delegation was represented by the khyakim (mayor) of the Avaza etrap, Dovlet Jumayev, who delivered a speech.

The forum also featured Ms. Tatiana Valovaya, the Director-General of the UN Office in Geneva (UNOG), and Ms. Tatiana Molchan, the Executive Secretary of UNECE. Additionally, participants were shown a video message from Mr. António Guterres, the UN Secretary-General.

In his speech, D. Jumayev highlighted the country's achievements in sustainable urban development and shared successful projects aimed at improving quality of life and creating modern living conditions for the population. He emphasized Turkmenistan's key role in implementing the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), drawing attention to the long-term national programs for socio-economic development extending to 2052 and the medium-term program up to 2028.

Particular focus was given to the "Smart City" project in Arkadag, which serves as an example of advanced solutions in urban planning and sustainable development. He also presented the national tourism zone of "Avaza" on the Caspian Sea coast, where modern infrastructure has been established for recreation and wellness.

The Turkmen delegation proposed initiating an international dialogue on two key issues: water resource management and the development of urban youth. Specifically, they suggested the creation of a new legal instrument for water resource management under the auspices of the UNECE and the organization of an international youth meeting in the smart city of Arkadag.