The seminar, held in the Bostanlik district of the Tashkent region, was attended by the Minister of Ecology, Environmental Protection and Climate Change  Aziz Abdukhakimov,   the Director of the Forestry Agency, Erkin Mukhitdinov, the heads of 79 territorial forestry organizations operating in the Republic of Karakalpakstan and regional areas, representatives from the World Bank, the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), KOICA,"Suppro" Ltd., scientists, experts  and media representatives.

During his opening speech at the seminar, Aziz Abdukhakimov highlighted that, as a result of the President’s initiative, there have been several positive changes in the field of forest conservation.

"In recent years, our President has strengthened control over illegal tree felling, imposed a moratorium on it and increased penalties. Our fellow citizens understand that cutting down trees arbitrarily is illegal, and strict penalties have been established for such actions", said the minister.

A. Abdukhakimov also critically analyzed the activities of the forestry sector, noting that there are still some shortcomings and violations of the law and addressing them is a top priority.

"Today, land degradation, deforestation, and desertification have become the most global environmental issues in the world. They have a particularly negative impact on the Central Asian region. The only solution is the preservation and expansion of forests. Therefore, we must put an end to any illegal activities in all forestry operations. If we do not stop deforestation today and fail to preserve our forests, it will inevitably lead to tragic consequences in the future. Moreover, future generations will not forgive us for this", said the minister.

The Minister also engaged with the heads of forestry and listened to their opinions and suggestions. During the seminar, topics such as the use of modern technologies in the field, tree planting and care, and effective forest management were discussed.

"This is the first time a seminar of this level has been held for foresters. Industry professionals are exchanging ideas, collaborating to find solutions to problems and shortcomings, while experts and scientists are offering their recommendations. The seminar provides us with an opportunity to share ideas and experiences, as well as reconnect and strengthen ties among professionals in the industry. Furthermore, we have set goals to expand forest cover by 2025, which will benefit all of us. The seminar has given us a great boost", said Rustam Ochilov, Director of the Bukhara State Forestry Agency.

During the seminar, Zinovy Novitsky, Head of the Laboratory at the Forestry Research Institute and Doctor of Agricultural Sciences, made presentations on the development of forestry in the Aral Sea region. An international expert, Ahmet Yalvach, also gave a presentation on Turkey's forestry experience.

The seminar continues.