Uzbekistan and the GEF: 30 Years of Cooperation

Since joining the GEF in 1995, Uzbekistan has achieved significant results through a range of national and regional grants. These funds have been directed toward conserving unique landscapes, gradually phasing out ozone-depleting substances, developing low-carbon transport systems through the introduction of bus rapid transit corridors, and strengthening national capacity to address environmental challenges.

In particular, projects on transboundary biodiversity conservation in Central Asia, as well as initiatives linked to the Aral Sea basin, have helped strengthen cross-border environmental governance and climate resilience. With GEF support, Uzbekistan is fulfilling its international obligations and taking part in programmes aimed at developing sustainable food systems, improving land management, and restoring ecosystems.

Overall, grants totalling $98.8 million, along with $773.8 million in co-financing, have contributed to advancing the country’s environmental policy and reinforcing its leadership role on the international stage.

Samarkand: A Crossroads of Cultures

The GEF describes Samarkand as one of the oldest cities in Central Asia, with continuous human habitation stretching back thousands of years.

“Archaeological findings indicate that people lived in this area as early as the Paleolithic era. The city is believed to have been founded in the VIII–VII centuries BCE. Owing to its location on the Great Silk Road, Samarkand became a major hub linking China, Iran, and Europe, and at certain periods it was one of the largest cities in the region,” the article states.

The article also notes that present-day Samarkand is conventionally divided into an old and a new part: the old part preserves its historical monuments and traditional way of life, while the new part is characterised by modern infrastructure and institutions.

It should also be noted that the VIII GEF Assembly will be held in Samarkand from 31 May to 6 June 2026. The event will bring together representatives of more than 180 countries, international organisations, financial institutions, academia, and civil society. Participants will discuss pressing issues such as climate change, biodiversity conservation, combating land degradation, the sustainable use of water resources, and the transition to a green economy. The GEF has emphasised that Uzbekistan is becoming an important platform for developing solutions to environmental challenges.

Nature, Landscapes and Biodiversity

Uzbekistan’s natural environment is highly diverse and includes deserts, mountains, steppes, wetlands, and river valleys. Much of the country’s central territory is occupied by the Kyzylkum Desert, while the Tien Shan and Pamir-Alay mountain systems are located in the east and south.

“The country is home to more than 27,000 species of plants and animals. These include such rare species as the snow leopard, Bukhara deer, saiga antelope, and markhor. The wetlands of the Amu Darya delta and the Aral Sea region are of particular importance as habitats for migratory birds. More than 30 protected natural areas are dedicated to preserving this rich natural heritage,” the article notes.

The article also underscores that, under the "Yashil Makon" initiative, more than 200 million trees are planted annually, while afforestation efforts are underway on the dried bed of the Aral Sea. These measures play an important role in combating desertification, conserving biodiversity, and adapting to climate change.