Avaza, The Europe Today – August 6, 2025: A formal welcoming ceremony for the delegates of the Third United Nations Conference on Landlocked Developing Countries (LLDC3) was held on Monday in the Avaza National Tourist Zone, marking the official start of the high-level international forum.
The event was attended by the National Leader of the Turkmen people and Chairman of the Halk Maslahaty of Turkmenistan, Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov; Secretary-General of the United Nations, António Guterres; Chairman of the 79th session of the UN General Assembly, Philemon Yang; heads and members of international delegations; leaders and representatives of global organizations; and senior officials of Turkmenistan.
In his address, the National Leader of the Turkmen people warmly welcomed the Secretary-General, participating delegations, and all guests to the sunlit and hospitable land of Turkmenistan, speaking initially in the Turkmen language. He noted the historic significance of holding this major UN event on the picturesque Caspian Sea coast within the Avaza National Tourist Zone.
Berdimuhamedov emphasized that the timing of the forum — taking place in the International Year of Peace and Trust as declared by the United Nations on Turkmenistan’s initiative — further reinforces the global importance of the conference. He expressed confidence that the collective efforts undertaken in the international arena in the name of peace, security, and sustainable development would produce tangible and positive results.
Continuing his remarks in Russian, one of the official languages of the UN, the Chairman of the Halk Maslahaty extended his gratitude on behalf of the Turkmen people to all those attending the conference. He highlighted that the broad and diverse participation in the forum reflects global respect and trust toward Turkmenistan, as well as acknowledgment of its constructive role in fostering cooperation, dialogue, and mutual understanding on the international stage.
“We welcome all of you, esteemed participants of the Forum, on Turkmen soil as dear and welcome guests, like-minded people and partners of Turkmenistan, united by the high goals of peace, progress and prosperity on the planet. Welcome to Turkmenistan!” he stated in conclusion.
The Chairman noted that convening the LLDC3 Conference is not only timely but also a natural continuation of the longstanding and consistent efforts made by landlocked developing countries to elevate their role in global processes, draw attention to their specific challenges and rights, and secure a just position in the modern international system.
The LLDC3 Conference will continue through August 8, bringing together global leaders, policy-makers, and experts to discuss strategic solutions for inclusive development and regional connectivity.
