Turkmenistan at WHO Assembly in Geneva

Turkmenistan's representatives are actively participating in the 79th World Health Assembly in Geneva, Switzerland, from May 18 to May 23, 2026. Leading the delegation is Azat Ovezov, the Deputy Minister of Health and Medical Industry.

This annual convention assembles member states of the World Health Organization to tackle global health issues, enhance international cooperation, and advance public health systems across various regions.

During their stay in Geneva, Ovezov engaged in discussions with WHO Director-General Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus. Both parties acknowledged the strong partnership between Turkmenistan and WHO, while also charting out future goals in health.

The delegation showcased their achievements in collaborative health projects with UN agencies, reaffirming Turkmenistan's dedication to enhancing cooperation with WHO for public health and medical advancements.

Turkmenistan extended an invitation to WHO's Director-General to visit in October 2026 for significant regional health events coinciding with the Year of Health celebrations.

Additionally, Turkmen officials participated in a round-table discussion with health ministers and delegation leaders from Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, and Uzbekistan, alongside WHO Europe Regional Director, Dr. Hans Kluge.

The agenda focused on the finalization of the Roadmap for Health and Well-being in Central Asia 2026–2030, or RMCA 2.0, aimed at strengthening health cooperation and strategic partnerships in the region.

Officials reviewed the plans to launch the roadmap officially and how it will integrate with wider regional health programs under the CIS Year of Health initiative.

In a different meeting with Dr. Hans Kluge, the Turkmen delegation discussed enhancing regional healthcare collaborations and future opportunities for reinforcing public health systems across Central Asia.