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

The meeting was co-chaired by Alisher Salomov, Adviser to the Chairman of the National Committee on Ecology and Climate Change and Anas Fayad Karman, Deputy Resident Representative of UNDP in Uzbekistan.

During the meeting, participants reviewed the results of project implementation for the second quarter of 2026, discussed key priorities for future activities and considered issues related to biodiversity conservation, the restoration of degraded ecosystems and the strengthening of environmental governance.

In particular, it was noted that 17 educational seminars and training sessions were conducted during the reporting period for specialists working in the fields of water and land resource management.

Special attention was also given to a three-day media expedition held in July 2026. The expedition provided media representatives with an opportunity to gain first-hand insight into important natural sites and ecosystems in the lower reaches of the Amu Darya River. Following the visit, information on the region’s natural potential, environmental challenges and the importance of conserving its unique ecosystems was widely disseminated through the media, helping to raise public awareness.

Participants also discussed proposals and priorities under the Micro-Grants Programme, which supports initiatives aimed at the conservation and sustainable use of natural resources and ecosystems across the Aral Sea Basin.

Another important item on the agenda was the launch of a new UNDP Uzbekistan innovation competition entitled “Innovative Solutions for the Restoration of Degraded and Salinised Lands in the Lower Reaches of the Amu Darya River.” The competition is designed to promote the identification and implementation of practical, innovative solutions for restoring degraded land and strengthening the resilience of the region’s ecosystems.

The meeting also addressed practical legal and institutional measures, capacity development and the enforcement of environmental legislation, with the aim of strengthening environmental governance and biodiversity conservation.
Participants further discussed the project’s planned activities and budget priorities for the third quarter of 2026.

The joint efforts of the National Committee for Ecology and Climate Change, UNDP, GEF and other partners are aimed at moving beyond isolated environmental initiatives towards integrated and systemic solutions for ecosystem restoration, stronger environmental governance, and a more sustainable future for the Aral Sea Basin.

The conservation of the Aral Sea Basin’s wetlands is not only essential for protecting unique natural ecosystems. It is also a critical component of sustainable territorial development and the well-being of communities whose livelihoods directly depend on the condition and sustainable use of natural resources.