On May 16, 2026, the II Cooperation Forum of Non-Governmental Organizations of the Member States of the Organization of Turkic States (OTS) was held in Baku within the framework of the “Baku Urban Week.” The forum brought together representatives of civil society, environmental organizations, and the expert community of the Turkic world.
The event was attended by representatives of Azerbaijan, Türkiye, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Uzbekistan, Turkmenistan, the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus, and Hungary.
Turkmenistan was represented at the forum by Mergen Kepbanov, Director of the Regional Environmental Centre for Central Asia (CAREC) Project Office in Turkmenistan, Orazgul Isgenderova, Assistant of the CAREC Project Office, Berkeli Atayev, Director of the public association “Tebigy Kuwwat”, and Mubarak Gurbanova, Director of the NGO “Taze Zaman”.
One of the key focuses of the event was the development of dialogue and practical cooperation among non-governmental organizations of the Turkic states. The forum included thematic meetings and expert discussions dedicated to sustainable development, environmental protection, urbanization, youth cooperation, and public diplomacy.
As part of the forum, a separate meeting — the 1st Azerbaijan–Turkmenistan NGOs Cooperation Forum — was held. The Turkmenistan–Azerbaijan Forum was held with the participation of representatives of public organizations and the expert communities of the two countries. During the discussions, participants considered prospects for expanding cooperation between NGOs, implementing joint environmental initiatives, educational programs, and humanitarian projects.
In his speech, Mergen Kepbanov, Director of the CAREC Project Office in Turkmenistan, noted:
“Today, the role of NGOs is becoming especially important. Public organizations are capable of bringing people together, promoting meaningful initiatives, supporting sustainable development, environmental education, youth projects, and humanitarian engagement.”
Special attention was paid to environmental cooperation and joint work in the field of sustainable development:
“Today, issues related to climate change, biodiversity conservation, rational use of natural resources, and environmental education require the combined efforts of public organizations, experts, and youth.”
The importance of strengthening youth cooperation among Turkic countries was also emphasized:
“Youth organizations of our countries can interact more actively through forums, volunteer programs, educational exchanges, cultural events, and joint initiatives in the field of sustainable development.”
The participation of representatives of Turkmen public organizations in the First Solidarity Forum of NGOs of the OTS member states held in November 2025 was also highlighted, along with their participation in the symbolic tree-planting initiative, which became a symbol of unity, friendship, and shared responsibility for environmental protection.
As part of the forum events, the Forum of Young NGO Leaders of the Organization of Turkic States was also held. During the panel session, Orazgul Isgenderova, Assistant of the CAREC Project Office in Turkmenistan, delivered a speech on behalf of Turkmenistan. In her remarks, she emphasized the importance of youth engagement in environmental and educational initiatives, the development of regional cooperation, and the role of young leaders in promoting sustainable development and social innovation. Particular attention was paid to the Central Asian Leadership Programme on Environment for Sustainable Development (CALP), implemented by CAREC with the support of the OSCE, as an effective platform for strengthening regional dialogue and developing young professionals in Central Asia.
Following the forum, participants expressed interest in further strengthening partnership ties, developing joint projects, and expanding cooperation among non-governmental organizations of the Turkic world.
Additional information:
Mergen Kepbanov, Director of the CAREC Project Office in Turkmenistan, turkmenistan@carececo.org