Turkmenistan has been elected to chair the group of Landlocked Developing Countries (LLDCs) for 2027–2028. The decision was made in New York during a meeting of the group's member states' permanent representatives to the United Nations.

According to Turkmenistan's Permanent Mission to the UN, the country was elected to this position with the unanimous support of all group members. Turkmenistan's term as chair will commence on January 1, 2027.

During the new leadership term, Azerbaijan was elected as vice-chair. In addition, representatives of Laos, Burundi, Chad, Rwanda, and Paraguay will join the governing body.

Turkmenistan's election to chair the LLDCs group is characterized as another recognition of its active stance on the international stage. This decision demonstrates the international community's high level of trust in Turkmenistan's foreign policy and initiatives.

During the two-year chairwomanship, Turkmenistan will coordinate the group's work. Specifically, primary importance will be given to developing cooperation in energy, transport, and communications, as well as promoting issues related to the integration of landlocked countries into international transport systems.

Turkmenistan will also represent the interests of the world's 32 landlocked developing countries. During this period, active support is planned for the implementation of the Avaza Programme of Action for 2024–2034.

As reported, the new composition of the LLDC governing body will be officially approved by the final communiqué of the ministerial meeting to be held at UN Headquarters in New York on September 24, 2026.

Furthermore, in November–December 2026, in cooperation with the UN Office of the High Representative for the Least Developed Countries, Landlocked Developing Countries and Small Island Developing States (OHRLLS), it is planned to draft a "roadmap" covering the main directions of Turkmenistan's chairmanship for 2027–2028.