HIGH-LEVEL DIALOGUE ON GLOBAL HEALTH DIPLOMACY
From February 16 to 18, 2026, the capital city of Ashgabat became the center of international medical diplomacy as the “Yyldyz” Hotel hosted the “High-Level Dialogue on Global Health Diplomacy.” This three-day forum brought together senior government officials, renowned experts from the World Health Organization (WHO), and diplomats to foster a more integrated approach to global health challenges.
The event commenced on February 16 with an opening ceremony moderated by Dr. Muratberdi Gayypov, Minister of Health and Medical Industry of Turkmenistan. Keynote addresses were delivered by Mr. Batyr Mammedov, Deputy Chairperson of the Cabinet of Ministers, Dr. Hans Henri P. Kluge, WHO Regional Director for Europe, and Ms. Myahri Byashimova, Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs of Turkmenistan. The dialogue emphasized the intersection of health and security, featuring speeches by Mr. Kaha Imnadze (SRSG, UNRCCA), Mr. Nurlan Seitimov (Deputy Secretary General of the CIS), and Mr. Annamuhammet Sardjaev (Parliament of Turkmenistan). Strengthening regional ties was a key focus, with insights provided by Alisher Boboev (Uzbekistan), the Deputy Ministers of Health, Temirbek Erkinov (Kyrgyzstan), and Astghik Grigoryan (Armenia). The day concluded with presentations by Mr. Vladimir Morozov (Vice-Rector, MSIIR) and Mr. Dmitry Shlapachenko (UN Resident Coordinator in Turkmenistan).
The second day of the event was focused on academic and strategic foundations. Following welcome remarks by Dr. Azat Ovezov (Deputy Minister of Health, Turkmenistan) and Ms. Oksana Domenti (WHO Representative to the EU), Mr. Vladimir Morozov delivered comprehensive lectures on “Diplomacy in an Interconnected World” and “Multilateralism and Consensus-Building.” Mr. Muhammed Ergeshov from the Ministry of Health of Turkmenistan presented on the topic “The Role of Medical Diplomacy in Turkmenistan,” followed by a session on regional synergy with experts Bahtygul Karryeva and Viktor Dolidze. The day concluded with an engaging “Fireside Chat” featuring Dr. Hans Henri P. Kluge on health diplomacy in today’s multipolar world.
On the final day, the agenda addressed specialized global issues. Willy Palm and Dr. Rudi Coninx (WHO) discussed health diplomacy in humanitarian settings, while Dr. Gauden Galea (WHO) addressed the prevention and control of non-communicable diseases (NCDs). The afternoon session explored the critical link between environmental security and health, featuring Ms. Nino Sharashidze (WHO European Centre for Environment and Health) and Mr. Heinz Habegger (UNRCCA). The High-Level Dialogue concluded with a final conversation with H.E. Kaha Imnadze and a certification ceremony for the participants.
Significantly, the dialogue served as a vital educational platform for students of higher educational institutions of Turkmenistan. By engaging directly with global health leaders and diplomats, these future professionals gained invaluable insights into the practical application of health diplomacy and international relations.
Hurma PARAHATOVA,
the 3rd year student of the Faculty of International Relations
of the Institute of International Relations
of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Turkmenistan.