On May 13, 2025, the Central Asian Conference on Climate Change, organized by the Ministry of Environmental Protection of Turkmenistan jointly with the Regional Environmental Center for Central Asia (CAREC), began its work at the “Yyldyz” Hotel in the capital.

This major regional conference brought together scientists, experts and specialists from Central Asian countries, as well as representatives of the UN and its specialized structures, in the Turkmen capital to discuss one of the pressing issues of our time – climate change.

Speakers at the opening of the conference focused on the need for a comprehensive approach to solving climate problems. As was emphasized, the fight against climate change cannot be considered in isolation from sustainable development issues.

After the official opening, an introductory high-level plenary session was held on the topic of “Regional and National Climate Policy: Achievements and Plans”.

The conference continued its work in two thematic sessions – “Climate Finance for Central Asia: Regional and National Perspectives” and “Regional Climate Cooperation: Priorities and Climate Justice”. The issues discussed included addressing climate issues through financing, climate risk management in Central Asia, the efforts and initiatives of the European Union in this area, and a transboundary early warning system to prevent hydrological disasters.

As noted, Turkmenistan successfully solves environmental problems at the state level, including the creation of forests, land reclamation and combating desertification, and the adoption of measures to save the Aral Sea. The country’s “Green Belt” is annually replenished with millions of new seedlings. A clear confirmation of Turkmenistan’s responsible approach to solving vital problems of our time is its accession to the Global Methane Commitment.

The forum included parallel sessions: “Innovative Tools for Developing Climate Financing Strategies in Central Asia”, “The Green Bridge Initiative: Innovative Technologies to Accelerate and Strengthen the Implementation of Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs)”, “Climate Actions of Civil Society and Youth in Central Asia” and “Regional Coordination Meeting of Central Asia (RESILAND CA+)”. Panel discussions were also held, where issues of ensuring environmental well-being, strengthening dialogue and developing joint actions to address climate issues relevant to all of humanity as a key factor in sustainable development were discussed.

Participants exchanged views on the possibilities of regional and international cooperation in the field of environmental protection, joint water resource management, and adaptation to global climate change. Reviews of national environmental strategies, closely linked to state socio-economic programs, were presented.

The Central Asian Climate Change Conference will include bilateral meetings to consider issues and develop concrete measures and practical steps aimed at building a more sustainable and prosperous future for the entire region.

On May 14, the international conference will continue its work in the sections “Transboundary Landscape Restoration in Central Asia”, “Promoting the Regional Climate Change Agenda and Preparation for the 30th Session of the Conference of the Parties to the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change”, as well as in parallel sections and panel discussions.