H.E. Mr. Abdulla Geldiyev Minister of Construction and Architecture of Turkmenistan

Distinguished representatives of the United Nations,
Excellencies,
Ladies and Gentlemen,

It is a pleasure to address this distinguished gathering and to join a discussion on one of the defining development priorities of our time: building cities that are resilient, economically dynamic, technologically advanced and environmentally sustainable.

Urban development today extends far beyond the construction of buildings and infrastructure. It requires an integrated vision — one that connects architecture, industry, energy, transport, environmental management and the quality of life of people. It also requires a long-term perspective, sound investment and effective international cooperation.

In Turkmenistan, the development of modern urban environments and the consistent modernisation of the construction sector remain important priorities of national development.

Our approach is reflected in the ongoing transformation of Ashgabat, as well as in the development of the city of Arkadag, conceived in accordance with the principles of a smart city. These projects demonstrate the importance we attach to combining contemporary architectural approaches, advanced engineering, digital technologies and modern urban infrastructure.

Arkadag, in particular, represents an important stage in the development of our national construction capabilities. Its integrated urban systems encompass intelligent transport management, digital utility solutions, smart-home technologies and electric transport. The experience gained through its development provides a valuable foundation for further advancing modern urban planning practices.

At the same time, the long-term development vision for Ashgabat, including the Ashgabat 2045 strategy, places emphasis on the expansion and modernisation of urban infrastructure, energy-efficient construction, digital management solutions and the creation of a comfortable urban environment.

These priorities are supported by substantial investment in housing, transport, educational and social infrastructure. In 2026, more than 900,000 square metres of residential housing are planned for commissioning across the country. Alongside this, particular attention is being given to improving the reliability of engineering networks, the quality of construction and the efficient use of resources.

Ladies and Gentlemen,

We recognise that the sustainability of cities is closely connected with the strength and technological capacity of their industrial foundations.

For this reason, Turkmenistan is pursuing the modernisation of domestic construction-materials production, expanding the use of local raw materials and supporting the introduction of advanced manufacturing technologies. The growing participation of national enterprises in major construction and infrastructure projects is also contributing to the development of professional expertise, industrial capacity and employment opportunities.

However, the challenges facing modern cities cannot be addressed through infrastructure development alone. Greater attention must also be directed towards energy efficiency, responsible water management, environmental protection, climate resilience and the integration of digital technologies into urban services.

In this regard, the exchange of international expertise and the adoption of proven technological solutions are particularly important. Cooperation between governments, United Nations institutions, international financial organisations, engineering companies, architects and investors can help accelerate the implementation of sustainable urban development projects.

We see considerable potential for expanding such cooperation in areas including innovative construction materials, energy-efficient buildings, intelligent infrastructure, advanced engineering, digital urban management and the development of modern industrial facilities.

Turkmenistan remains open to constructive international partnerships that translate shared priorities into practical projects, mutually beneficial investment and lasting development outcomes.

Excellencies,
Ladies and Gentlemen,

The cities we build today will shape the economic opportunities, social well-being and environmental conditions of future generations.

Our common responsibility is therefore to ensure that urban development is guided not only by the scale of construction, but also by the quality, resilience, efficiency and lasting value of what we create.

I am confident that today's round table will contribute to strengthening international dialogue, identifying new areas of cooperation and advancing practical solutions for the sustainable development of cities in Turkmenistan and across the wider region.

Let us work together to build cities that are not only modern in their appearance, but resilient in their foundations, innovative in their development and sustainable in their contribution to future generations.

Thank you for your attention.