Avaza, August 8, 2025 – The Europe Today: A high-level side event titled “International Year of Peace and Trust: Building Momentum Towards SDG 16 that Promotes Peaceful and Inclusive Societies for Sustainable Development” was held on the sidelines of the Third United Nations Conference on Landlocked Developing Countries (LLDCs).
The event was co-organized by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Turkmenistan and the UN Regional Centre for Preventive Diplomacy for Central Asia (UNRCCA). It brought together high-ranking government officials, regional experts, and representatives of international organizations to discuss the importance of peace, dialogue, and inclusive governance in advancing Sustainable Development Goal 16—which calls for peaceful, just, and inclusive societies.
The main agenda centered on promoting the values of peaceful dialogue and multi-format cooperation at both regional and global levels. Participants underlined that peace, trust, and accountable institutions are critical not only for national resilience but also for sustainable development and regional integration—especially for landlocked developing countries facing geographic and infrastructural constraints.
In his address, Kaha Imnadze, Special Representative of the UN Secretary-General and Head of UNRCCA, stressed that peace and trust form the bedrock of sustainable progress. “The path to prosperity for landlocked countries lies through sustainable political mechanisms, inclusive governance, and good neighborly relations,” he said. He reaffirmed UNRCCA’s strong commitment to supporting Central Asian states in enhancing regional dialogue and cooperation.
The event also highlighted the significance of the UN General Assembly Resolution titled “2025 – International Year of Peace and Trust”, which was unanimously adopted on March 21, 2024, at Turkmenistan’s initiative and co-sponsored by 86 countries. The resolution reinforces Turkmenistan’s commitment to fostering peace and dialogue as tools for multilateral collaboration.
Reflecting this vision, Turkmenistan developed the Concept of Activities and Priorities for the International Year of Peace and Trust, which outlines strategic goals based on modern global challenges. The Concept emphasizes the need for a systemic approach supported by legal and institutional mechanisms, reinforcing the idea that sustainable development cannot be achieved without a foundation of peace and mutual understanding.
Special attention was given to the Awaza Programme of Action, particularly its focus areas on trade, regional integration, and implementation strategies. Participants agreed that the challenges faced by LLDCs—including dependence on transit routes, vulnerable supply chains, and climatic vulnerabilities—require coordinated, multilateral solutions.
The discussions concluded with a reaffirmation of the international community’s shared responsibility to foster political stability, build mutual trust, and strengthen diplomacy grounded in cooperation and inclusivity—all essential components to unlock sustainable development and prosperity for LLDCs.
