The XXIV International Exhibition and Conference "White City Ashgabat" has concluded in the capital of Turkmenistan. This event proved to be a significant fixture on the agenda for international cooperation, sustainable development, and the modernization of urban infrastructure. The forum's successful execution reaffirmed Ashgabat's growing prominence as a platform capable of bringing together government officials, business leaders, and experts to discuss critical issues concerning the development of next-generation cities.

Over its two-day duration, the forum presented a comprehensive program to its numerous participants. This included plenary sessions, industry-specific sessions, discussion panels, bilateral meetings, and special events designed to foster business and interpersonal collaboration. More than 550 delegates from over 30 countries attended the event, among them government delegations, leaders of international corporations, and specialists in urban planning, ecology, digital technologies, architecture, and economics.

Prominent companies and organizations represented at the event included UN-Habitat, UNIDO, the International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA), Interbudmontazh, Çalık Holding, Bouygues Batiment International, S&P Global Commodity Insights, China National Technical Import and Export Corporation (CNTIC), BVS Construction, the Asian Development Bank (ADB), Daewoo Engineering & Construction Co., Ltd., and Zoomlion Environmental Industry Co., LTD. A delegation from Uzbekistan, led by the Mayor of Tashkent, Shavkat Umurzakov, also attended the conference and exhibition as honored guests.

The central theme of the forum revolved around the concept of a sustainable and smart city — an integral component of modern urban planning. Sessions addressed key issues concerning the digital transformation of urban spaces, the application of innovative technologies in infrastructure management, the expansion of green zones, and the enhancement of energy efficiency and environmental sustainability within the urban environment.

Particular emphasis was placed on the integration of small and medium-sized businesses into urban modernization and improvement processes. Participants shared successful examples of private sector involvement in urban projects, underscoring the importance of public-private partnerships as a driver of economic growth and social stability.

Significant Agreements and Partnerships

A pivotal moment of the conference was the signing of several documents, opening new avenues for cooperation between Turkmenistan and leading international companies. The Hyakimlik of Ashgabat City finalized a Memorandum of Understanding with the Chinese corporation Zoomlion Environmental Industry Co., LTD for the procurement of 960 units of specialized equipment. This initiative aims to enhance the efficiency of the city's communal services and implement advanced solutions in environmental management and solid waste disposal. Concurrently, on May 24, 2025, the State Concern "Turkmenhimiya" and the South Korean company Daewoo Engineering & Construction Co., Ltd. signed a contract valued at USD 682,000,000 for the construction of a mineral fertilizer production complex at the chemical plant in Turkmenabat. This represents a significant stride in the development of Turkmenistan's chemical industry.

The conference significantly fostered extensive business connections. According to organizers, over 100 B2G meetings were held during the forum, signaling a growing interest from foreign investors and companies in the opportunities emerging in Turkmenistan. Participants had the chance to engage in direct dialogue to discuss the potential for mutually beneficial cooperation, investment conditions, and specific projects requiring foreign expertise and capital.

Informal networking opportunities were an integral part of the forum, including themed coffee breaks, business lunches, and evening dinners, all arranged to deepen connections among attendees. These settings often served as fertile ground for initiating new ideas and discussing concrete forms of collaboration, particularly among representatives of small and medium-sized businesses keen on expanding partnerships and entering international markets.

Philippe Merlin, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the French Republic to Turkmenistan

'Innovations in the Modernization of Turkmenistan's Construction, Industrial, and Energy Sectors,' allowed me to gain a deeper appreciation for Turkmenistan's commitment to sustainable development through the adoption of advanced technologies. The French Republic highly values Ashgabat's initiatives in creating a 'smart' and environmentally friendly city."

Mr. Merlin further emphasized that "This conference has sent a powerful signal to the world that Turkmenistan is open to innovation and ready for fruitful cooperation in high-tech construction and energy. The dialogue that took place here will lay the groundwork for numerous promising projects." He also expressed confidence that such forums contribute to strengthening bilateral ties and facilitating the exchange of best practices.

Vladimir Petruk, Managing Director of Interbudmontazh

Mr. Petruk, as the key speaker at the first session focused on modern construction and financing, shared his impressions of the conference. "For our company, with many years of experience working in the region, 'White City Ashgabat' is not just an exhibition; it's a dynamic platform for establishing new business contacts and discussing tangible projects," Mr. Petruk noted. He emphasized the high level of organization of the event and the quality of the projects presented.

"Direct communication with government representatives and potential partners proved particularly valuable. Such conferences allow us not only to showcase our capabilities but also to find optimal solutions for implementing complex infrastructure challenges, contributing to the development of both large and medium-sized businesses," he added.

Her Excellency Beata Peksa, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the European Union to Turkmenistan

Madam Peksa participated in the Plenary Session, highly commended the level and significance of the conference for regional development. "For the European Union, issues of sustainable urban development and a green economy are priorities. We see Ashgabat as a vivid example of how a city can develop by integrating innovations while preserving its unique identity," the Ambassador stated.

She highlighted the importance of the dialogue that took place at the conference for exchanging experiences and developing joint approaches to address global challenges. "Forums like 'White City Ashgabat' strengthen mutual understanding between countries and create fertile ground for new partnerships, ultimately contributing to the prosperity of all participants," Beata Peksa concluded.

Michael Lisfeld, Research Director at S&P Global Commodity Insights

Michael Lisfeld, Research Director at S&P Global Commodity Insights, stated: "Participating in this conference was a very important event for me. My presentation focused on an overview of global polymer markets and Turkmenistan's prospects for monetizing natural gas. With the world's fourth-largest gas reserves, Turkmenistan holds immense interest for international companies and investors. In this regard, I want to specifically highlight the significant signing of the contract for the construction of a mineral fertilizer plant between Daewoo Engineering & Construction and the State Concern 'Turkmenhimiya,' which is itself a landmark event in the global chemical industry."

It's important to emphasize that the XXIV International Exhibition and Conference "White City Ashgabat" was more than just a showcase of Turkmenistan's urban achievements and capital development prospects. It served as a practical platform for launching new collaborative projects, all aimed at contributing to the country's sustainable socio-economic growth. The forum clearly demonstrated Turkmenistan's openness to international dialogue, its commitment to innovative approaches in urban policy, and its readiness to expand international cooperation on a mutually beneficial and constructive basis.

Ultimately, the event not only reaffirmed Ashgabat's significance as a city with ambitious development goals but also strengthened Turkmenistan's position on the international stage as a reliable partner and active participant in global sustainable development processes. In concluding the conference, we can confidently state that it will provide a solid foundation for further expanding international ties and attracting investments into sectors of strategic importance for the country.