Today, the Regional forum of Trade union leaders from Central Asian Countries and the Republic of Azerbaijan was held at the «Arçabil» Hotel in the capital. It was organized by the National Centre of Trade Unions of Turkmenistan jointly with the International labour organisation (ILO) Bureau for workers activities. The event was attended by leaders and representatives of trade unions from a number of countries, as well as international organisations specialising in labor protection and coordination of trade union activities.

The speeches emphasised that the independent, neutral Turkmen state attaches particular importance to the development of productive bilateral and multilateral cooperation at the regional level, taking effective steps to intensify dialogue. In this context, the historical significance of the first regional trade union forum «Central Asia + Republic of Azerbaijan» was noted.

Participants noted that holding the interregional forum in Ashgabat demonstrates long-term cooperation, strengthening good-neighbourly relations between countries, and the efforts being made to jointly address pressing issues of socio-economic development. Changes in the labor market, digitalisation, the introduction of new technologies, specialist training, as well as labor and social protection for workers require innovative approaches and close partnerships between trade unions. The current forum serves as an effective platform for the constructive exchange of experience and the development of long-term partnership strategies, where the practical experience of trade union structures in various countries is of particular importance.

In addition, during the event, information was presented on the large-scale activities of the National centre of Trade unions of Turkmenistan, which successfully implements socially oriented state policy. The country is systematically working to improve constitutional rights of the citizens to work based on its scientific organisation. In this area, legislative acts are being consistently improved in accordance with generally recognized norms of international law.

The forum paid special attention to dynamically developing partnership of Turkmenistan with the International labour organisation (ILO). The Turkmen state, strictly fulfilling its obligations arising from ILO conventions, carries out targeted activities to introduce generally recognised norms of international law into national legislation, which are reflected in the Code «On Social protection of the population», the Labour code, the Law of Turkmenistan «On Employment of the population», etc.

The main objective of trade unions is to represent the interests of workers before employers and government agencies, ensure compliance with labor legislation, and improve working conditions. Respect for human rights, creation of a favorable working environment, expansion of employment opportunities and strengthening of economic stability are identified as fundamental factors in ensuring social justice.

The forum provided detailed coverage of the achievements of trade unions in Central Asian countries and the Republic of Azerbaijan in this area. Participants were particularly interested in the successful use of digital technologies in trade union activities, as well as systematic measures to improve legal literacy of workers. In addition, the importance of regularly holding such events to strengthen partnerships and expand multilateral cooperation between trade unions in the region was emphasised.

Representatives of neighbouring countries noted the potential of coordinated work by trade unions to ensure the comprehensive and harmonious development of the populations of the region. At the same time, a high interest was expressed in the implementation of projects of regional significance aimed at improving the qualifications of specialists and organising mutual training. Cooperation in improving the employment system and protecting the rights and interests of workers contributes to the achievement of the Sustainable development goals. Speakers emphasised the need for consistent study of cutting-edge global scientific advances, prioritising the adoption of scientifically sound approaches, innovative technologies, and cost-effective solutions.

Trade union representatives from Central Asian countries and the Republic of Azerbaijan expressed their sincere gratitude to the President of Turkmenistan and the National Leader of the Turkmen People, Hero-Arkadag, for the hospitality extended to them on Turkmen soil, as well as for the high level of organisation of the events planned in the white-marble capital of Ashgabat.

As part of the regional forum, a working meeting was held between the heads of industry councils and heads of trade union departments with the chairman and representatives of the Confederation of Trade unions of the Republic of Azerbaijan, chaired by the Chairman of the National centre of Trade unions of Turkmenistan. The parties discussed issues of bilateral cooperation, mutual exchange of experience, and promising areas of joint work.