An urgent call to address the environmental crisis of the Caspian Sea was made during a high-level international conference in Turkmenistan, where leaders gathered to discuss the role of women in sustainable development. Leyla Aliyeva, Vice-President of the Heydar Aliyev Foundation, highlighted the severe impact of the sea’s dropping water levels and pollution on marine life, describing it as a “global problem that we must address together.”
According to a report issued today, the statement was delivered at the international conference titled ‘The Role of Women in Modern Society: Promoting International Cooperation for Sustainable Development,’ held on December 10 in the Awaza National Tourist Zone. The event brought together representatives of international organizations and experts to discuss key initiatives for strengthening the role of women and advancing the global sustainable development agenda.
In her address, Aliyeva emphasized that women’s leadership, knowledge, and experience are crucial for societal progress. She detailed the Heydar Aliyev Foundation”s extensive international projects, including school construction in numerous countries and initiatives supporting girls” education in Africa and Honduras. She also reaffirmed the position of women as guardians of family values and cultural traditions.
Speaking at the opening ceremony, Oguljahan Atabayeva of the Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov Charitable Foundation expressed confidence in the conference”s potential for constructive dialogue. She underscored the fundamental role of women in teaching life values and fostering a culture of peace, advocating for an international network of centers to provide comprehensive support to women and children.
Tatiana Valovaya, Director-General of the United Nations Office at Geneva, noted several key anniversaries, including Turkmenistan’s 30 years of permanent neutrality. She highlighted that this status underpins the country”s foreign policy of dialogue and cooperation, with Turkmen women playing a significant part in diplomacy, international negotiations, and within the national parliament.
Saida Mirziyoyeva, Head of the Administration of the President of the Republic of Uzbekistan, outlined her country”s efforts to protect women’s rights. She mentioned the establishment of free master’s programs and international university scholarships for women, noting that 35 percent of state-funded students abroad are now female. Mirziyoyeva also spoke of a unique accelerator program providing women entrepreneurs with financing and mentoring.
Prior to the discussions, attendees toured an exhibition showcasing Turkmenistan’s cultural heritage and contemporary achievements, with displays presenting the active participation of women in all sectors. Throughout the conference, other speakers reiterated the importance of women as bearers of cultural values and customs.
The necessity of strengthening partnerships between state institutions, civil society, and international organizations to eliminate obstacles preventing the full realization of women’s potential was also highlighted.
The conference proceeded with a series of panel sessions to further explore the topics discussed.