The information system that is on the agenda of this workshop is a pivotal and essential element for the delivery of the National Environment Action Plan, which is the main policy document for environmental protection and nature conservation cutting across all the sectors of the country’s economy. And this is the primary reason we have invited representatives of all government sectors to this workshop, as this information system will be an intersectoral and networking mechanism.  Over the next two days, you will learn about the concept, framework and further steps for developing this information system and will have the opportunity to discuss its application. The intention is that the whole process takes into account the concerns of each ministry and organization concerned. UNDP Turkmenistan is ready to support your further efforts to put this system in place and to obtain the technology required to create a network of your organizations.  

Nevertheless, it is clear that no matter how modern technology is, the validity of the information system depends on your commitment and responsibility to make it work effectively. Access to reliable data and sound collection, analysis and sharing of data is fundamental for policy development not only in the environment sector but in all sectors. As has been emphasized by all UN Treaty Bodies to which Turkmenistan has reported following ratification of international conventions, access to reliable data remains a challenge for the country.  I am glad that Minister Akmuradov in his speech referred to the need to include data on carbon emissions into the system. There is evidence to suggest that carbon emissions in Turkmenistan are particularly high and we need more reliable data on the levels and major sources. Controlling climate change is of global concern, and a priority area of work for UNDP, and we look forward to cooperating with the Government of Turkmenistan on this issue. The value of any information system is of course totally dependent on the accuracy of the data fed into it. Unless maximum data reliability can be ensured the information system will risk becoming just another technological failure.     

Considerable work therefore lies ahead of us and developing the system and the databases is merely the initial step. The most important and challenging work will be collecting the data and entering the required information into the components of the information system.  And this is why your understanding and ownership of the product is imperative. Without it, we will not succeed. As I said earlier, your opinions and recommendations will influence the further development of the system and I do hope that soon we will meet again to officially launch it for the benefit and use of the country. With these words, I would like to wish you two productive and constructive days and all success with this important workshop.  

Thank you.