FREE TRADE AND THE ROLE OF INTERNATIONAL ORGANIZATIONS IN PROMOTING COOPERATION FOR SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT - IN THE FOCUS OF THE PLENARY SESSION

On December 12, 2020, a plenary session was held on the topic "Mutually beneficial economic cooperation, free trade and the role of international organizations in promoting cooperation for sustainable development" at the Turkmen State University named after Makhtumkuli, within the framework of the International Conference "Policy of Neutrality and its role in ensuring international peace, security and sustainable development".

The meeting was attended by the heads and representatives of the trade complex of Turkmenistan, and video messages of the heads of respected regional and international structures playing an important role in promoting trade and economic partnership in the world and in the region were heard.

It was emphasized at the meeting that today Turkmenistan in its international activities places a special emphasis on the economic aspect of neutrality, which is especially evident in the context of developing cooperation with the countries of the region and the world, as well as with the international organizations. As a neutral state, Turkmenistan confidently forms its long-term foreign economic strategy, relying on clear and open principles arising from the international status of neutrality.

During his speech, Secretary-General of the World Customs Organization (WCO) Kunio Mikuriya, emphasized the interest of the organization he leads in further strengthening and expanding partnership with Turkmenistan. He also said that this organization fully supports the "open doors" policy implemented by Turkmenistan.

Dimitri Kerkentzes, Secretary-General of the International Bureau of Expositions (BIE), stressed Turkmenistan's commitment to expanding multilateral partnerships in key vectors of the international economy.

The participants emphasized the country's efforts to stimulate the development of the national economy by increasing investment, implementing large-scale infrastructural projects. In this regard, it was noted that Turkmenistan is actively developing and expanding mutually beneficial contacts with tens of countries of the world, large foreign companies, and international financial institutions.