Today in Ashgabat, a subregional forum of the leaders of trade unions from Central Asian countries and the Republic of Azerbaijan was held, co-organized by the National Center of Trade Unions of Turkmenistan and the International Labour Organization’s (ILO) Bureau for Workers’ Activities. This was reported on the “Watan” news program.

As noted, improving labor relations in the country is currently one of the priority directions of state policy implemented in the field of labor and employment. Strengthening the legal framework of these relations is guided by the fundamental principles of the International Labour Organization. Ensuring decent work and social justice serve as the main principles for developing and improving labor relations in our country.

During the subregional forum, it was emphasized that Independent, permanently Neutral Turkmenistan, which attaches special importance to developing mutually beneficial bilateral and multilateral cooperation at the regional level, makes systematic efforts in this direction. In this regard, the historical significance of holding the subregional trade union forum in the “Central Asia + Republic of Azerbaijan” format for the first time was highlighted.

Conference participants stressed that holding this regional-scale forum in Ashgabat demonstrates the steady development of cooperation between the countries, the strengthening of good-neighborly relations, and joint efforts to address key issues of socio-economic development. Changes occurring in the labor market, digitalization, the implementation of new technologies, specialist training issues, as well as the labor and social protection of workers require innovative approaches and close cooperation from trade unions. In this connection, it was noted that the subregional forum serves not only as an effective platform for exchanging views, but also for future cooperation. In this context, the experience accumulated by the relevant structures of the participating countries is of great value.

Representatives of neighboring states noted the potential for coordinated work by trade unions in ensuring the comprehensive and harmonious development of the population in regional states. High interest was expressed in implementing regional projects to enhance professional qualifications and organize mutual training programs. Cooperation in employment and the refinement of systems for protecting workers’ rights and interests contributes to achieving the Sustainable Development Goals. Speakers emphasized the need to consistently study the advanced achievements of world science to adopt scientifically grounded approaches, innovative technologies, and economically effective solutions.

Within the framework of the subregional forum, a productive meeting took place between representatives of the sector councils of the National Center of Trade Unions of Turkmenistan and representatives of the Confederation of Trade Unions of the Republic of Azerbaijan. During the meeting, views were exchanged on developing cooperation between trade unions, sharing experience, and future directions for joint interaction.

Source: https://turkmenportal.com/tm