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

The purpose of the meeting was to discuss prospects for cooperation in waste management, the introduction of advanced Japanese technologies for recycling and disposal, and the implementation of joint projects in the circular economy and environmental protection.

Representatives of Ishigaki Company Ltd. presented information about the company’s activities. With more than 67 years of experience, Ishigaki is one of the leading manufacturers of equipment for filtration, water treatment, waste dewatering and municipal wastewater treatment facilities. The company actively develops international cooperation and implements innovative solutions in various countries, contributing to environmental safety and sustainable development. The Japanese side noted strong interest in Uzbekistan’s economic growth and reforms in infrastructure, environmental protection and the mining sector. Ishigaki’s representatives expressed readiness to carry out a research and assessment mission to examine the potential for establishing joint business projects and participating in initiatives aimed at improving citizens’ quality of life.

Minister of Ecology Aziz Abdukhakimov emphasized that Uzbekistan is actively developing waste-management projects and introducing green technologies. Fourteen priority directions are being implemented in this area, including medical waste disposal projects amounting to US$114 million. A network of Waste-to-Energy enterprises has been established, a “green tariff” system has been introduced, and joint projects are underway with the European Union on the reclamation of uranium mining sites and with ACWA Power on hazardous waste disposal. Initiatives are also being developed with the Finnish company EPSE OY for the treatment of industrial effluents. Minister Abdukakhimov noted that, in the context of climate change and increasing anthropogenic pressure, environmental protection and rational natural-resource management have become strategic state priorities. In this regard, the use of international experience — in particular Japanese environmental technologies — is of special importance.

During the negotiations the minister proposed signing a Memorandum of Cooperation between the Agency for Waste Management and the Development of the Circular Economy under the Ministry and Ishigaki Company Ltd. The agreement would provide for specialist exchanges, environmental audits, the creation of a joint research programme and adaptation of Japanese technologies to Uzbek conditions.

Following the meeting, the parties agreed to conduct preliminary studies and expert assessments, on the basis of which a decision will be made regarding the implementation of a pilot project. The participants expressed confidence that developing a partnership between the Ministry of Ecology and Ishigaki Company Ltd. will be an important step in advancing circular-economy principles, introducing green technologies and ensuring Uzbekistan’s sustainable development.