Today, the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) in Turkmenistan and the country’s major private media resource, Turkmenportal, signed an extension of the Memorandum of Understanding for the period 2024-2026 to strengthen cooperation in implementing the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
The signing ceremony took place at the UN building in Ashgabat.
Building on the success of previous collaboration, this updated agreement aims to further strengthen the implementation of national development priorities by leveraging joint expertise, resources and networks to raise awareness, knowledge and public engagement in key development areas.
Narine Saakyan, UNDP Resident Representative in Turkmenistan, noted:
“This updated partnership with Turkmenportal highlights the vital role of media in advancing the SDGs. Together, we aim to empower people, amplify key development messages and inspire joint action for a sustainable future.”
The partnership will aim to advance Turkmenistan’s national development agenda with a particular focus on such important areas as economic diversification, creative economy development, digital transformation, gender equality, climate change, disaster risk reduction and sustainable management of natural resources.
By promoting creativity and innovation, the partnership aims to harness new opportunities in digital media and other creative industries to drive economic growth and empower communities across Turkmenistan.
Guvanch Nurmyradov, Director General of Turkmenportal, emphasized:
“The partnership with UNDP is an important step for Turkmenportal in supporting Turkmenistan’s development goals. This cooperation allows us to use our platform to raise awareness, engage the public and contribute to the country’s progress.”
As part of the memorandum, the parties will also prioritize the empowerment of women and girls, promoting their participation in digital technologies and enhancing the digital skills of the population to ensure equal access to the benefits of the digital era for both women and men.