Turkmenistan Hosts Landmark UN Summit to Empower Landlocked Nations

Ashgabat, Turkmenistan – August 2025

Turkmenistan recently hosted a major international event—the 3rd United Nations Conference on Landlocked Developing Countries (LLDCs)—bringing global attention to the development needs of nations without direct access to the sea. The summit took place in Ashgabat, under the guidance of Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedow, National Leader of the Turkmen People and Chairman of the People’s Council, and President Serdar Berdimuhamedow.

During the event, UN Secretary-General António Guterres acknowledged the leadership and hospitality of the Turkmen government and expressed gratitude for their efforts in organizing the high-level meeting.

“This conference reflects Turkmenistan’s active commitment to global cooperation and the goal of sustainable progress for all nations,” said Mr. Guterres.

Focus on Connectivity, Growth, and Equality

Landlocked developing countries face specific hurdles—limited access to global markets, high transportation costs, and dependence on transit countries for trade. The conference addressed these concerns by discussing solutions such as:

Building better regional transport links

Improving cross-border infrastructure

Expanding digital access and innovation

Strengthening climate resilience in vulnerable areas

Leaders from landlocked countries and their partners discussed how international cooperation can help overcome these disadvantages through coordinated action and long-term planning.

Turkmenistan’s Expanding Global Role

By hosting this international summit, Turkmenistan reaffirmed its commitment to acting as a neutral and constructive partner in regional and global affairs. The country highlighted its investments in trade corridors and infrastructure projects that connect Asia, Europe, and the Middle East, aiming to make trade routes more accessible for neighboring landlocked nations.

President Serdar Berdimuhamedow emphasized that development should be inclusive and no country should be left behind due to geography.

Outcome and Global Commitment

At the conclusion of the conference, delegates adopted a forward-looking agenda focused on:

Mobilizing international support

Promoting sustainable development

Strengthening partnerships with both public and private sectors

Advancing digital and green technologies in LLDCs

This new roadmap will guide global action over the next decade, aligning with the UN 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development.

A Global Call to Action

The Ashgabat summit marked a new chapter in addressing the unique needs of landlocked nations. Turkmenistan’s leadership, warm hospitality, and dedication to global development were widely praised, setting a strong example for how partnerships can drive meaningful change.

With renewed commitment and shared goals, the global community now moves forward with a clearer vision—ensuring that every country, regardless of its location, has the opportunity to grow and thrive.