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

The event brought together representatives of the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO), the Consultative Group on International Agricultural Research (CGIAR), the Climate Investment Funds (CIF), the Asian Development Bank (ADB), and members of the international investment community. Uzbekistan was represented by Deputy Minister of Ecology, Environmental Protection and Climate Change Jusipbek Kazbekov.

During the discussion, participants emphasized the importance of introducing a comprehensive landscape approach based on the principles of ecosystem connectivity, sustainable water resource management, climate-resilient agriculture and biodiversity conservation. It was noted that ensuring food and water security is impossible without taking environmental factors into account, preserving natural balance and restoring degraded ecosystems, particularly amid the growing impacts of climate change, land degradation and declining water resources in Central Asia.

The Uzbek side presented five nationwide environmental initiatives aimed at strengthening environmental sustainability and climate adaptation. These included the nationwide “Yashil Makon” project focused on planting one billion trees and shrubs, the “Clean Air” initiative aimed at reducing emissions and improving air quality, the “Waste-Free Territory” project designed to modernize the waste management system, the “Bioheritage” programme dedicated to biodiversity conservation and the restoration of ecosystems in the Aral Sea region, as well as the “Eco-Culture and Environmental Education” project aimed at fostering environmental awareness and improving ecological literacy among the population.

During the session, participants also discussed issues related to strengthening regional cooperation, promoting transboundary environmental initiatives, exchanging scientific data, and introducing modern technologies for natural resource monitoring. Particular emphasis was placed on the importance of joint efforts to restore ecosystems, preserve water balance, protect natural landscapes and ensure sustainable interaction between the environmental, water management and agricultural sectors.

Following the event, the parties reaffirmed their commitment to further expanding cooperation in the areas of climate resilience, environmental protection, ecosystem restoration, and the implementation of joint environmental projects with the support of international financial institutions and climate funds.