Turkmenistan views digital transformation as a strategic priority for national development and is implementing large-scale programs to modernize its telecommunications infrastructure. This was announced by Turkmenistan's Minister of Communications, Hajymyrat Hudaygulyev, speaking at the International Startup Forum, which is being held in partnership with the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) within the framework of the international conference "Turkmentel 2025."

Hudaygulyev emphasized that digital transformation is a key element of state policy. "Turkmenistan views digital transformation as a strategic priority for national development. Under the leadership of the President, large-scale programs are being implemented aimed at modernizing the telecommunications infrastructure, developing digital services, and increasing the state's technological independence," the minister stated.

He also noted the recent participation of President Serdar Berdimuhamedov in the "Central Asia + USA" summit in Washington, where support for tech entrepreneurship was expressed. "The President of Turkmenistan expressed a clear position in support of startups, tech entrepreneurship, and innovative platforms, confirming the country's intention to actively integrate into global digital processes," added Hudaygulyev.

The Minister of Communications outlined a number of priorities aimed at achieving digital transformation goals:

Infrastructure: development of telecommunications and digital infrastructure, including participation in international projects to create digital transit corridors, as well as the use of the national communications satellite "TurkmenAlem52E" to expand internet access in remote areas.

Digital services: launching digital platforms in key social sectors – education, healthcare, and public administration.

Talent and Inclusion: developing qualified personnel in ICT and artificial intelligence (AI) through educational programs and international internships; ensuring digital inclusion and reducing the digital and gender gap.

Hudaygulyev emphasized the importance of international cooperation in the digitalization process. "In this context, the partnership between the Ministry of Communications of Turkmenistan and the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) plays a particularly important role, having become an example of effective bilateral cooperation," he said.

In collaboration with UNDP, a project was completed to implement an interdepartmental interaction system that increases the transparency and efficiency of information exchange between government agencies.