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

The event was attended by representatives of the Ministry of Ecology, Environmental Protection, and Climate Change, Green University, Suez Canal University (Egypt), King Saud University (Saudi Arabia), the Center for Applied Research in Partnership with the East (CARPO), and others.

The purpose of the meeting was to explore and share experiences on specific environmental issues faced by urban centers in the Middle East and Central Asia, as well as identify joint opportunities to address climate change in urban settings. 

"I am thrilled that we can contribute to this unifying activity not only between the Middle East and Central Asia, but also between Europe and Central Asia", said Anna Laura Petrucci, academic and professional consultant in architecture and urban planning at King Saud University, during the event.

During the panel discussion, experts considered various points of view on environmental issues and climate change, paying special attention to sustainable urban development. It was noted that the exchange of knowledge on sustainable development methods and the strengthening of links between experts and stakeholders from different regions would highlight potential areas for future cooperation in addressing climate change and promote sustainable development in urban settings and beyond.

"Here we are discussing not only the economy but also other things, including joint cooperation on environmental issues. And I think we are in the right place, at the right time, to explore exactly this issue—how both regions can work and cooperate in this direction", said Jan Hanrath, co-founder and CEO of CARPO.

The final part of the seminar was a discussion of further steps to strengthen cooperation and develop joint projects. Participants stressed the importance of integrating environmental and climate initiatives into regional development strategies. Ideas were also proposed for the creation of multilateral partnerships between universities, government agencies, and the private sector to promote research and implement sustainable development practices.