The capital of Turkmenistan is open to expanding cooperation with the UN, international development institutions, and cities across various countries. This was stated by the hakim of Ashgabat, Rahim Gandymov, during a high-level UN round table held within the framework of the CIET-2026 exhibition and conference.

According to Gandymov, a modern city is not just buildings, roads, and engineering infrastructure; it is, above all, a space for living, working, education, and human development. He noted that cities around the world face common challenges: climate change, a growing demand for energy and water resources, the need to modernize infrastructure, and the requirement to ensure environmental safety.

For Ashgabat, located in a region with an arid climate, he identified efficient water use, urban greening, energy-saving technologies, and environmentally responsible construction as priorities. Digital transformation, the hyakim added, enhances the efficiency of resource use and the quality of services provided to the public; this is facilitated by intelligent transport systems, digital municipal services, and technologies for monitoring utility networks.

The mayor emphasized that the meeting’s theme relates to the UN 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development—specifically Sustainable Development Goal 11, which focuses on making cities safe, resilient, and environmentally sustainable. He spoke highly of Turkmenistan’s partnership with UN-Habitat and the United Nations Development Programme.

Gandymov recalled that a high-level round table involving UN representatives had already taken place in May during the international forum "White City of Ashgabat – 2026." The current meeting continues this dialogue, with a focus on the interconnections between urban planning, industry, energy efficiency, and environmental sustainability.

The governor identified energy-efficient construction, sustainable infrastructure, the digitalization of urban services, rational water use, and environmentally friendly transport as promising areas for cooperation.

"Sustainable urban development cannot be achieved through national efforts alone. It requires broad partnerships, mutual trust, and a continuous exchange of experience," said Gandymov.

The International Exhibition and Conference "Development of the Construction, Industrial, Chemical, and Energy Sectors of Turkmenistan" (CIET-2026) is taking place in Ashgabat from November 3 to 5. The forum has brought together over 800 delegates from 60 countries. The event is timed to coincide with the Day of Workers of the Construction and Industrial Complex of Turkmenistan.