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

CITES CoP20 marks the first large-scale session of the Convention ever held in Central Asia. The forum has brought together more than 3,000 delegates from 184 countries and the European Union, including representatives of government institutions, international organizations, the scientific community, and the non-governmental sector. The conference focuses on strengthening global measures to conserve biodiversity, improving mechanisms for regulating international trade in endangered species, and advancing international cooperation.

The opening ceremony featured remarks by United Nations Deputy Secretary-General and Executive Director of the UN Environment Programme Inger Andersen (video message), Adviser to the President of the Republic of Uzbekistan on ecology and Chair of the National Committee on Ecology and Climate Change Aziz Abdukhakimov, and CITES Secretary-General Ivonne Higuero.

In his address, Aziz Abdukhakimov emphasized that Uzbekistan has implemented comprehensive reforms in recent years to protect wildlife and strengthen measures against illegal trade.

“Just a few days ago, the President of the Republic of Uzbekistan signed a historic decree on reforming and further strengthening national environmental governance. According to the decree, the newly established National Committee on Ecology and Climate Change is accountable to the President and the Senate. The Committee has been tasked with implementing important national initiatives such as ‘Bio-Heritage,’ ‘Green Space,’ ‘Eco-Culture,’ ‘Clean Air,’ and ‘Zero-Waste Territories.’ In addition, the National Environmental Police and the Environmental Monitoring Center have been created with expanded powers to combat illegal wildlife trade, environmental crimes, and violations involving flora and fauna,” the Chair stated.

Special attention was given to international cooperation. Uzbekistan is strengthening its partnership with TRAFFIC, INTERPOL, Fauna & Flora International, and is actively participating in regional initiatives such as CAMI, CADI, and the Ramsar Initiative. A significant milestone was the signing of the Samarkand Declaration by Central Asian states.

Looking ahead, the minister proposed several initiatives, including the establishment of the “Samarkand AI-Hub” advisory platform to promote digital technologies and artificial intelligence, as well as the development of a mechanism to harmonize sanctions and reinforce accountability for illegal wildlife trade. Uzbekistan also advocated for expanding breeding centers for rare species under strict control and digital tracking.

In her remarks, Ivonne Higuero highlighted that partnership is the foundation of collective success.

“CITES represents multilateralism in action — proof that cooperation delivers results for people and the planet. Our collective efforts are the only way to secure a future where wildlife thrives. In many ways, our work today is a modern Silk Road — not only for goods, but for knowledge, commitments, and action to conserve life on Earth. This meeting is our opportunity to chart a sustainable path forward. Let us unite to strengthen the Convention and uphold multilateralism so that wild species flourish, ecosystems prosper, and the legacy we pass on to future generations is one of resilience and hope,” the Secretary-General said.

The official opening of CITES CoP20 launched a comprehensive 12-day programme, including plenary sessions, discussions on amendments to the Convention’s Appendices, thematic events, and high-level meetings aimed at reinforcing international efforts to protect wildlife.