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

The event brought together representatives of профиль ministries of the Central Asian countries, international organizations and the expert community, with the support of UNICEF. Participants included Minister of Ecology and Natural Resources of Kazakhstan Yerlan Nyssanbayev and First Vice Minister of Education Mereke Meldebekova.

Discussions focused on preparations for RES-2026 and the advancement of the regional “Green School” platform aimed at fostering environmentally sustainable education systems. Countries presented their national priorities within the framework of the updated NDC 3.0, particularly with regard to education and the protection of children’s rights, as well as best practices in implementing the Green School approach.

O. Kudratov emphasized the strategic importance of developing coordinated regional approaches and highlighted the significance of the 2022 Declaration on Children, Youth and Climate Action. He informed participants of the adoption in Uzbekistan of the National Strategy for Promoting a Culture of Sustainable Development and Engaging Youth in the Climate Agenda. The Rector of Green University, B. Pulatov, noted that Uzbekistan’s updated NDC 3.0 for the first time includes a dedicated section on the protection of the rights and interests of children, and underscored cooperation with UNICEF in developing a Roadmap for the implementation of NDC 3.0.

During the visit, a meeting was also held with Yerlan Nyssanbayev to discuss issues related to the conservation of the saiga population, including the initiative to transfer 500 individuals to Uzbekistan, as well as matters of transboundary air pollution and the coordination of joint measures to reduce environmental risks.

The delegation visited the EXPO Exhibition Center and the Congress Center, which will host RES-2026 events. Discussions covered the organization of the international exhibition, formats for side events and thematic sessions, the promotion of the “C5+1” format, as well as logistical arrangements, accreditation procedures and protocol coordination. Particular attention was given to the creation of “Tree” art installations reflecting the national priorities of the countries of the region.

At the conclusion of the meetings, the parties confirmed their readiness for further cooperation and agreed on priority steps in preparation for the 2026 Regional Environmental Summit.