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

The parties discussed opportunities to expand bilateral cooperation in environmental protection, climate change, sustainable water management, scientific research and regional initiatives.

Particular attention was paid to the Climate-Resilient Integrated Water Resources Management in the Zarafshan River Basin Project, implemented by Caritas Switzerland with Swiss support. The project focuses on improving water quality monitoring, developing environmental flow methodologies and strengthening integrated river basin management. The Uzbek side expressed interest in Switzerland’s support for a second phase of the project to build on the results achieved and expand successful approaches.

The meeting also covered cooperation through the Blue Peace Central Asia programme, including the possibility of launching a pilot project on environmental flows in a selected river basin.
The parties explored opportunities to strengthen scientific and educational cooperation with Green University, including through the Regional Research Institute for Combating Desertification and Developing the Desert Economy. Proposals included establishing a Swiss–Uzbek Water Diplomacy Programme and a Young Environmental Diplomats Programme to promote regional dialogue, joint research and training for international environmental negotiations.

The role of "ARTepa Gallery" in raising environmental awareness through art and culture was also highlighted.

The meeting concluded with a discussion of "Eco Expo Central Asia 2027", scheduled for June 15–17 in Tashkent. The Uzbek side expressed its interest in welcoming a high-level Swiss delegation to the event, which will focus on green finance, clean technologies, ecotourism, environmental education, afforestation, green transport and energy.

Both sides expressed their interest in further strengthening cooperation and advancing practical initiatives to support sustainable development in Uzbekistan and Central Asia.