During an official visit to Turkmenistan The United Nations Under-Secretary-General and Associate Administrator of the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), Mr. Haoliang Xu held high-level meetings with senior government officials of Turkmenistan, including H.E. Mr. Mammethan Chakiyev, Deputy Chairman of the Cabinet of Ministers; and H.E. Ms. Bayramgul Orazdurdiyeva, Deputy Chairperson of the Cabinet of Ministers.

Discussions focused on strategic cooperation in addressing key national development priorities in healthcare, climate action, economic diversification, digital transformation, education and regional connectivity, in alignment with the UNDPs new five-year Country Programme for Turkmenistan.

Mr. Xu engaged with Turkmen youth at the Hybrid Vacancy Fair and Global Opportunities Presentation held at the “IshNokady” coworking center in Ashgabat, as part of the UNDP regional initiative on Promoting Sustainable Communities to Prevent Violent Extremism in Central Asia, supported by the Government of Japan.

Addressing students, graduates, and young innovators, he highlighted pathways through UN volunteer and internship opportunities, encouraging them to seize opportunities, develop their skills, and contribute to Turkmenistan’s sustainable development.
“The Future Skills Academy is more than a training initiative – it is an investment in Turkmenistan’s future. By equipping young people with digital, leadership, and entrepreneurial skills, we are empowering a generation to drive innovation, strengthen resilient communities, and giving them the tools to shape their own sustainable and inclusive future,” Mr. Xu said.
During his visit, Mr. Xu also met with the UNDP Turkmenistan team to discuss ongoing initiatives and continued support for the country’s development priorities.

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As the lead United Nations agency on international development, UNDP works in 170 countries and territories to eradicate poverty and reduce inequality. UNDP helps countries develop policies, leadership skills, partnerships, and institutional capacities to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals, promote democratic governance, uphold the rule of law, and build inclusive institutions.
This year also marks UNDP’s 60th anniversary - six decades of working hand in hand with countries and communities to turn that promise into lasting progress, from tackling poverty and driving climate action to advancing gender equality and harnessing digital solutions for development.
