UNDP Associate Administrator Pays Official Visit to Turkmenistan

December 12, 2025

Speaker standing on stage with microphone; slide shows a colorful flower diagram; audience seated. — UNDP Associate Administrator Pays Official Visit to Turkmenistan, 11 to 13 December 2025

UNDP Turkmenistan

Ashgabat, 13 December 2025: The United Nations Under-Secretary-General and Associate Administrator of the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), Mr. Haoliang Xu, paid an official visit to Turkmenistan from 11 to 13 December 2025 to participate in the celebrations marking the International Year of Peace and Trust and the 30th Anniversary of the Permanent Neutrality of Turkmenistan.

Mr. Xu on behalf of UNDP addressed the participants of the International Forum dedicated to the International Year of Peace and Trust (2025), International Day of Neutrality, and the 30^th anniversary of permanent neutrality of Turkmenistan. At his speech Mr. Xu emphasized the importance of translating the momentum of the International Year of Peace and Trust into lasting actions.

Photograph of a grand conference hall with a long curved panel of officials. — International Forum dedicated to the International Year of Peace and Trust, International Day of Neutrality, and the 30th anniversary of permanent neutrality of Turkmenistan, 12 December 2025, Ashgabat

UNDP Turkmenistan

“Turkmenistan’s three decades of permanent neutrality is a milestone that reflects the country’s commitment to peace and regional cooperation. The International Year of Peace and Trust reminds us that sustainable development and resilient communities are the foundation of lasting peace. UNDP supports Turkmenistan to translate these ideals into tangible progress that improves lives and builds a stronger, more inclusive future for all,” Mr. Xu said.

Mr. Xu also took part in major national events marking the 30th anniversary of Turkmenistan’s neutrality, including the opening of the Zone of Neutrality, the flag-raising ceremony, a gala concert, and an exhibition celebrating the country’s contributions to global peace, trust, and constructive dialogue.

Diverse professionals at a conference booth, smiling around a table with flags and flowers. — The UNDP Associate Administrator at the exhibition celebrating Turkmenistan’s 30th anniversary of Neutrality, 11 December 2025, Ashgabat.

UNDP Turkmenistan

During his visit, Mr. Xu also held high-level meetings with senior government officials of Turkmenistan, including H.E. Mr. Mammethan Chakiyev, Deputy Chairman of the Cabinet of Ministers; and H.E. Ms. Bayramgul Orazdurdiyeva, Deputy Chairperson of the Cabinet of Ministers. Discussions focused on strategic cooperation in addressing key national development priorities in healthcare, climate action, economic diversification, digital transformation, education and regional connectivity, in alignment with the UNDPs new five-year Country Programme for Turkmenistan.

Photograph of four people seated around a wooden conference table in a formal meeting room.

Group of professionals in a conference room around a long table with papers; portrait on wall.

Two people in blue suits exchange a rolled certificate in a formal setting with a patterned wall.

Mr. Xu engaged with Turkmen youth at the Hybrid Vacancy Fair and Global Opportunities Presentation held at the “IshNokady” coworking center in Ashgabat, as part of the UNDP regional initiative on Promoting Sustainable Communities to Prevent Violent Extremism in Central Asia, supported by the Government of Japan. Addressing students, graduates, and young innovators, he highlighted pathways through UN volunteer and internship opportunities, encouraging them to seize opportunities, develop their skills, and contribute to Turkmenistan’s sustainable development.

Businessman in suit shakes hands with a woman at a crowded trade show. — The Hybrid Vacancy Fair and Global Opportunities Presentation held at the “IshNokady” coworking center in Ashgabat, 11 December, Ashgabat

UNDP Turkmenistan

“The Future Skills Academy is more than a training initiative – it is an investment in Turkmenistan’s future. By equipping young people with digital, leadership, and entrepreneurial skills, we are empowering a generation to drive innovation, strengthen resilient communities, and giving them the tools to shape their own sustainable and inclusive future,” Mr. Xu said.

Man in a suit speaks into a microphone at a conference desk, with four people standing behind him. — UNDP Turkmenistan

During his visit, Mr. Xu also met with the UNDP Turkmenistan team to discuss ongoing initiatives and continued support for the country’s development priorities.

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As the lead United Nations agency on international development, UNDP works in 170 countries and territories to eradicate poverty and reduce inequality. UNDP helps countries develop policies, leadership skills, partnerships, and institutional capacities to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals, promote democratic governance, uphold the rule of law, and build inclusive institutions.

This year also marks UNDP’s 60th anniversary - six decades of working hand in hand with countries and communities to turn that promise into lasting progress, from tackling poverty and driving climate action to advancing gender equality and harnessing digital solutions for development.