National Committee on Ecology and Climate Change of the Republic of Uzbekistan

The parties discussed prospects for strengthening cooperation, sharing best practices in environmental protection and climate action, and supporting Uzbekistan’s transition to a green economy. Particular attention was given to the implementation of the joint project “Resilient Landscapes Restoration in Uzbekistan” (ResiLand).

The project aims to modernize the forestry management system, combat desertification and erosion, expand forest landscapes in several regions (Jizzakh, Namangan, Samarkand, Kashkadarya, Syrdarya and Surkhandarya), and promote transboundary cooperation among Central Asian countries in landscape restoration.

The meeting also addressed the impact of air pollution on public health and economic development. It was noted that, with the support of the World Bank, air quality assessments are being conducted in Tashkent, monitoring activities are underway in Termez and a new project is planned to launch in Namangan.

It was emphasized that under the leadership of President Shavkat Mirziyoyev, environmental security and protection have been identified as key priorities of state policy. The year 2025 has been declared the “Year of Environmental Protection and "Green" Economy.” It was also noted that Uzbekistan aims to increase the share of renewable energy sources in its energy mix to 60%.

Over recent years, Uzbekistan has been actively participating in regional and global environmental initiatives. In particular, Samarkand has become a venue for a number of major international conferences. Representatives of the World Bank highly commended Uzbekistan’s ongoing environmental reforms, its climate adaptation policies and its proactive stance on the global stage.

The World Bank delegation was invited to take part in the upcoming international conference of the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES CoP20), which will be held in Samarkand from November 24 to December 5, 2025, as well as the 8th Assembly of the Global Environment Facility (GEF), scheduled for May 31–June 5, 2026. The Bank was also invited to participate in the “Eco Expo Central Asia 2026,” where it will have the opportunity to host its own pavilion and showcase its global green initiatives.

Following the meeting, the parties agreed to further strengthen cooperation, enhance the effectiveness of environmental projects and expand their joint contribution to sustainable development.