Today, a meeting was held at the Women’s Union of Turkmenistan between Oguljahan Atabayeva, Vice President for Medical Affairs of the Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov Charitable Foundation for Assistance to Children in Need of Guardianship, and Dmitry Shlapachenko, UN Resident Coordinator in Turkmenistan.

The diplomat expressed sincere gratitude for the opportunity to meet and praised the Foundation’s humanitarian work aimed at protecting children’s health and ensuring their well-being.

Warmly welcoming the UN representative, Oguljahan Atabayeva, Vice President for Medical Affairs of the Foundation, noted that Turkmenistan, a full member of the UN since the first years of independence, attaches great importance to productive cooperation with the Organization, covering key areas of society.

Oguljahan Atabayeva emphasized that the Charitable Foundation places special emphasis on issues related to the health, development, education, and social security of children, noting with satisfaction the presence of specialized UN agencies in this area. 

As noted, the Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov Charitable Foundation for Assistance to Children in Need of Guardianship works closely with the UNICEF Representative Office in Turkmenistan. This was clearly demonstrated by the signing of a corresponding document at the international conference marking the 4th anniversary of the Foundation’s establishment, which took place in March of this year.

During the meeting, the parties discussed preparations for the International Conference “The Role of Women in Modern Society: Developing International Cooperation for Sustainable Development”, scheduled for December of this year in the Avaza National Tourist Zone. As noted, holding this forum in the year marking the 30th anniversary of Turkmenistan’s permanent Neutrality, recognized by three UN General Assembly resolutions, as well as the 80th anniversary of the founding of the United Nations, further enhances its significance.

The UN Resident Coordinator in Turkmenistan emphasized that the Avaza National Tourist Zone has become a venue for major forums. This is further confirmed by the high-level international conference held in August of this year, and the adoption of the Avaza Political Declaration following it was further evidence of the international community’s recognition of Turkmenistan’s initiatives to ensure global peace and prosperity.

Dmitry Shlapachenko also noted that all the possibilities exist for holding a high-level international conference in Avaza this December.

As emphasized during the meeting, women leaders currently occupy key positions in Turkmen society in various spheres, including politics, business, and social movements. They actively participate in addressing important issues facing society, promoting the principles of gender equality.

Caring for women, strengthening their role in society, and ensuring gender equality in accordance with the Constitution of Turkmenistan and universally recognized norms of international law are among the priority areas of policy for our independent, neutral state.

Under the wise leadership of President Serdar Berdimuhamedov, Turkmenistan, following the philosophy defined in international relations as “Dialogue is the Guarantee of Peace”, responsibly implements gender policy targets. Our country’s efforts in this area are supported internationally, primarily within the United Nations.

Our work in this area is also widely covered in the media.

At the same time, it was noted that Turkmenistan was the first in the region to initiate the creation of a Central Asian Women’s Dialogue. This structure aims to strengthen the role of women in ensuring sustainable development, peace, and security in the region. It was established at the initiative of the National Leader of the Turkmen People, Chairman of the Halk Maslahaty of Turkmenistan, Hero-Arkadag, with the participation of the UN Regional Center for Preventive Diplomacy for Central Asia and the UN Development Program.

Dmitry Shlapachenko emphasized that the UN highly values and supports Turkmenistan’s efforts to ensure gender equality, including women’s access to quality healthcare and education. 

In conclusion, Oguljahan Atabayeva, Vice President for Medical Affairs at the Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov Charitable Foundation for Assistance to Children in Need of Guardianship, and Dmitry Shlapachenko, UN Resident Coordinator in Turkmenistan, expressed confidence that the current meeting would serve as impetus for further cooperation in the interests of children and women.