The Global Industrial Summit of the United Nations Industrial Development Organization (UNIDO) has officially begun in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. The event is held as part of UNIDO’s 21st General Conference, taking place on 23–27 November 2025. Turkmenistan is represented by a delegation led by Toýguly Nurow, Minister of Industry and Construction Production. The information was reported by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Turkmenistan.

According to the UN’s official website, representatives from governments, the private sector, and civil society are discussing how industrial development can help address major global challenges — from climate change and food insecurity to the creation of resilient supply chains that can benefit countries and workers equally.

“Industrial development plays a crucial role in strengthening economies, combating poverty, creating jobs and ensuring prosperity,” said UN Secretary-General António Guterres in his message to the participants. His address was delivered by Mohamed El-Zarkani, the UN Representative in Saudi Arabia.

By the end of the week, the 21st General Conference is expected to adopt decisions that will shape UNIDO’s work for the next two years. These decisions are likely to influence how the industrial sector contributes to building a greener, fairer, and more sustainable world.

During the summit, delegations will review draft resolutions, examine reports on UNIDO’s activities, and discuss new initiatives. According to the UN, preparations have also started for elections to the Industrial Development Board and the Program and Budget Committee, which oversee UNIDO’s work.

compiled by Begnazar BEGNAZAROV,

student of the Institute of International Relations
of the MFA of Turkmenistan.