A high-level roundtable discussion on strengthening exclusive breastfeeding support systems was held today at the “Yyldyz” hotel in Ashgabat. It was organized by the Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov Charitable Foundation for Assistance to Children in Need of Care, in collaboration with UNICEF Turkmenistan, TDH reports.

The forum was attended by representatives of the Mejlis, the Ministry of Health and Medical Industry, relevant institutions and higher education institutions, public associations, the media, international organizations, including the UN and its specialized agencies, major financial institutions, and diplomatic missions accredited in our country.

The UN Resident Coordinator in Turkmenistan, Xiaojun Grace Wang, the Representative of UNICEF in Turkmenistan, Ms. Jalpa Ratna, and the Vice President for Treatment of the Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov Charitable Foundation for Assistance to Children in Need of Care, Oguljahan Atabayeva, addressed the participants with welcoming remarks.

As Oguljahan Atabayeva emphasized in her speech, the goal of this forum is to raise awareness of the importance of exclusive breastfeeding, particularly in Turkmenistan. And with World Breastfeeding Week currently underway, it is important to assess the progress made in this area and identify next steps.

"Investing in breastfeeding is investing in the future of the nation. Supporting breastfeeding enhances child protection, improves their nutrition and development, strengthens maternal health, reduces healthcare costs, and contributes to the creation of a healthier and more developed society," said Oguljahan Atabayeva, emphasizing the need to develop specific measures to strengthen systems to support exclusive breastfeeding.

The forum continued with thematic sessions: "Breastfeeding in Turkmenistan: Data and Key Findings," "Results of the Joint Campaign to Promote Breastfeeding," "Strengthening the Breastfeeding Support System," and "Legislative and Regulatory Framework."

Summing up the forum, O. Atabayeva noted the importance of advancing the promotion of exclusive breastfeeding and the need for joint efforts in this area, expressing confidence that a fruitful exchange of opinions took place during the event.