Turkmenbashi: An international conference titled ‘The Role of Women in Modern Society: Promoting International Cooperation for Sustainable Development’ took place in the Awaza National Tourist Zone in Turkmenbashi, Turkmenistan. Leyla Aliyeva, Vice-President of the Heydar Aliyev Foundation, participated in the event.
According to Azerbaijan State News Agency, the conference attracted representatives from international organizations and experts who discussed initiatives to enhance the role of women and promote the global sustainable development agenda. The event began with an exhibition showcasing Turkmenistan’s cultural heritage and achievements, particularly highlighting women’s active participation in various sectors.
Oguljahan Atabayeva, Vice-President for Medical Activities of the Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov Charitable Foundation for Assistance to Children in Need of Guardianship, spoke at the opening ceremony. She emphasized the importance of establishing support networks for women and children, providing essential services such as medical and psychological aid, and involving women in social, political, and economic processes.
Tatiana Valovaya, Director-General of the United Nations Office at Geneva, noted significant anniversaries being celebrated this year, including the 80th anniversary of the United Nations and the 30th anniversary of Turkmenistan’s permanent neutrality. She highlighted the pivotal role women play in Turkmenistan’s foreign policy and their active involvement in parliament and international organizations.
Saida Mirziyoyeva, Head of the Administration of the President of the Republic of Uzbekistan, discussed the protection of women’s rights in Uzbekistan, mentioning initiatives like scholarships for women and support for women entrepreneurs.
Leyla Aliyeva highlighted the importance of women’s leadership for sustainable development and shared information about the Heydar Aliyev Foundation’s international projects. She discussed the Foundation’s initiatives in education, healthcare, and ecology, and addressed the environmental concern regarding the Caspian Sea’s declining levels, urging collective action to address the issue.
The conference continued with panel sessions focusing on women’s societal roles, emphasizing the need to harness women’s potential in political and economic spheres for sustainable development. The necessity of strengthening partnerships between various sectors to overcome barriers to women’s full participation was also discussed.