On March 12, a high-level meeting took place in Ashgabat between Deputy Foreign Minister of Turkmenistan Mahri Bashimova and Peter Van Rooij, the Regional Director for Europe and Central Asia of the International Labour Organization (ILO). The Turkmen side extended their formal congratulations to Mr. Van Rooij on his new appointment, noting that his leadership comes at a crucial time when Turkmenistan is actively modernizing its labor market. The meeting served as a vital platform to reaffirm the mutual commitment to fostering a sustainable and fair working environment through international cooperation.

The discussions focused extensively on expanding the institutional engagement of Turkmenistan with UN specialized agencies. Both parties reviewed the progress of ongoing joint projects aimed at promoting the "Decent Work" agenda and enhancing social dialogue within the country. These initiatives are designed to ensure that economic growth is accompanied by social equity, emphasizing the protection of workers' rights, the improvement of occupational safety, and the development of robust vocational training programs that meet modern industrial requirements.

A significant portion of the dialogue was dedicated to the implementation of the bilateral Cooperation Roadmap for 2026. This comprehensive strategic document outlines the steps for aligning national policies with international labor standards and fostering productive partnerships between state institutions and civil society. The implementation of this Roadmap is viewed as a cornerstone for Turkmenistan’s efforts to achieve the UN Sustainable Development Goals, particularly those related to economic growth and reduced inequalities, providing a structured approach to social reform.

Furthermore, the meeting highlighted Turkmenistan’s exemplary record in submitting periodic reports on its ratified ILO conventions, reflecting the nation's transparency and adherence to global legal frameworks. Looking ahead, the participants confirmed Turkmenistan’s active participation in the upcoming session of the International Labour Conference, scheduled for June in Geneva. This international forum will provide an opportunity for Turkmen representatives to engage with global labor leaders and showcase the country’s progress in advancing social justice and labor rights in the era of digital and economic transformation.