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

The document was signed by Aziz Abdukhakimov, Chairman of the National Committee on Ecology and Climate Change of the Republic of Uzbekistan and A. Kuantyrov, Minister of Ecology and Natural Resources of the Republic of Kazakhstan.

The Memorandum aims to strengthen bilateral cooperation in the conservation and sustainable recovery of the saiga antelope (Saiga tatarica), a species of significant ecological, scientific and conservation importance to the region.

The two parties agreed to develop cooperation across several priority areas, including joint monitoring of saiga populations and migration patterns, the exchange of scientific and technical information and best practices, the implementation of research projects and strengthened efforts to combat poaching and illegal trade.

Particular attention will be given to the conservation and restoration of the species’ natural habitats, the development of transboundary protected areas and migration corridors, and the restoration of natural pastures and water bodies.

The Memorandum also provides for joint efforts to develop saiga reintroduction programmes in areas that were previously part of the species’ natural range, conduct field research, monitor population status and organise training activities.

The implementation of these agreements will make it possible to pool the scientific and practical expertise of the two countries, improve coordination of conservation efforts and contribute to biodiversity conservation across Central Asia.