The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) in Turkmenistan, in partnership with the U.S. Embassy in Turkmenistan, convened the 3rd Coordination Meeting of the Sustainable Economy and Finance (SEF) Working Group, bringing together representatives of the Government of Turkmenistan and international development partners on 11 May 2026 at the UN Building in Ashgabat.

The meeting provided a platform to share updates on ongoing and planned initiatives supporting Turkmenistan’s sustainable economic and financial development, and to strengthen coordination among development partners through open and constructive dialogue.

Participants were briefed on progress in the implementation of Turkmenistan’s Socio-Economic Development Programme for 2022–2028, including key achievements in 2025 and future outlooks. The meeting also highlighted joint efforts supporting the country’s accession to the World Trade Organization (WTO) and the development of a National Trade Strategy. Additional discussions covered international frameworks such as the Sevilla Outcomes and the Awaza Programme of Action.

Opening the meeting, Ms. Narine Sahakyan, UNDP Resident Representative in Turkmenistan noted: “Together with our partners, we are pleased to convene this meeting today. The Sustainable Economy and Finance Working Group serves as an important coordination platform that brings together development partners to ensure coherent, effective, and aligned support for Turkmenistan’s development priorities.”

Her Excellency, the Ambassador of the United States to Turkmenistan, Ms. Elizabeth Rood, said: “Economic development is economic security – benefits that are shared by people and businesses.  We support competitive markets and transparent, rules-based trade frameworks that create opportunities for everyone.” 

Established under the Development Partners Coordination Group (DPCG), the SEF Working Group aims to enhance the effectiveness of international organizations and diplomatic missions in finance and economy by facilitating closer collaboration with the Government of Turkmenistan towards achieving shared objectives for Turkmenistan's economic growth.

The SEF working group meets regularly to establish an effective platform for improved coordination, knowledge sharing, raising awareness, and enhancing collaboration in economic and financial areas.