Turkmenistan Completes Key Phase in Climate Change Adaptation Planning Oriented Strategy
The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and Green Climate Fund (GCF) recently concluded their joint project in Turkmenistan aimed at developing a National Adaptation Planning Process (NAP) to address the challenges brought about by climate change. The high-level final conference held at the “Yyldyz” Hotel on April 10, 2025, showcased the project’s achievements and highlighted Turkmenistan’s plans moving forward.
Over the four-year duration of the project, significant progress was made in enhancing Turkmenistan’s capacity to adapt to climate change. Key accomplishments included integrating climate risk assessments and adaptation planning into national development processes and budget frameworks. The collaboration between UNDP, the Ministry of Environmental Protection, and other stakeholders resulted in the establishment of frameworks to support the implementation of the Paris Agreement, data collection for water sector planning, and capacity building to effectively address climate-related challenges.
The project built upon Turkmenistan’s existing strategic frameworks, such as the National Climate Change Strategy and Nationally Determined Contribution, by developing concrete tools for their implementation. Outputs such as the Roadmap for the National Adaptation Plan and the Concept for Climate Finance were emphasized during the conference presentations and discussions.
In her opening remarks, Ms. Narine Sahakyan, UNDP Resident Representative in Turkmenistan, highlighted the importance of National Adaptation Plans in building resilience to climate change and reducing vulnerability. She expressed UNDP’s commitment to supporting Turkmenistan in the development of sector-specific NAPs and the finalization of the Adaptation Financing Framework to ensure the country meets its commitments under the Paris Agreement.
The conference brought together a range of stakeholders including government officials, climate experts, international organizations, academia, civil society, private sector representatives, and diplomatic missions. Panel sessions focused on strategic planning, international cooperation, climate finance, and long-term knowledge building. The event also featured a Photo Exhibition titled “Climate Change – Time to Act,” showcasing the impacts of climate change in Turkmenistan and local efforts to adapt.
Overall, the conference underscored the importance of sustainable financing, long-term planning, and international partnerships in advancing national climate adaptation. The outcomes of the project will serve as a foundation for Turkmenistan’s ongoing efforts towards a climate-resilient future.
