Peace, justice and strong institutions are essential foundations for achieving all Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), not just goals in themselves. This was stated by Turkmenistan's Permanent Representative to the UN, Vepa Hajiyev, speaking at the conference "Driving Forces of Transformation and Coordinated Action for Sustainable Development" at UN Headquarters in New York.

Guided by a policy of permanent neutrality, Turkmenistan consistently advocates dialogue, preventive diplomacy, and the creation of conditions for peace and sustainable development.

“Our experience demonstrates that peace is a prerequisite for economic growth, social progress and environmental sustainability,” the diplomat emphasized.

Hajiyev particularly emphasized the role of preventive diplomacy and close cooperation with the UN Centre for Preventive Diplomacy in Central Asia. He stated that the region has developed a valuable mechanism for dialogue and cooperation that promotes stability and sustainable development.

The Permanent Representative also emphasized that effective, accountable, and inclusive institutions are essential for implementing national development strategies and ensuring that the benefits of economic growth reach all groups in society. Strong institutions, he said, build trust and enhance resilience to new challenges.

Hajiyev drew attention to the recently adopted UN General Assembly resolution on the role of neutrality in maintaining international peace, security, and sustainable development, which reaffirms the importance of dialogue, mediation, and peaceful cooperation as key tools for achieving peace and development.

As we move towards 2030, progress on SDG 16 accelerates the achievement of other goals on the agenda, the diplomat noted.

“By investing in peace, justice, strong institutions and international cooperation, we create the conditions necessary for sustainable development for all,” he concluded.

Turkmenistan, he said, is committed to working with all partners to promote a culture of peace, trust, and dialogue in the interests of implementing the 2030 Agenda.