The event brought together key stakeholders, including Deputy Minister of Ecology, Environmental Protection and Climate Change of the Republic of Uzbekistan Jusipbek Kazbekov, British Ambassador to Uzbekistan Timothy Smart, Member of the UK House of Lords Lord Waverley and others.

In his remarks, Jusipbek Kazbekov emphasized that under the initiative of President Shavkat Mirziyoyev, Uzbekistan is undertaking extensive efforts to tackle pressing environmental challenges, particularly the consequences of the Aral Sea’s desiccation.

"Uzbekistan is taking significant steps to stabilize the environmental situation, mitigate the impacts of climate change, combat desertification, and address other critical issues," he stated. "The country has hosted major international events such as the 21st session of the Committee for the Review of the Implementation of the UN Convention to Combat Desertification (CRIC 21), the Samarkand Climate Forum, and more."

He further highlighted the large-scale national project “Yashil Makon” ("Green Space"), through which drought-resistant and climate-adapted plants are being cultivated on the former seabed of the Aral Sea. Uzbekistan remains firmly committed to sustainable environmental development and transitioning to a green economy, including increasing the share of renewable energy sources to 54%. Additionally, the year 2025 has been declared the “Year of Environmental Protection and "Green" Economy” in Uzbekistan.

Concluding his speech, Jusipbek Kazbekov invited all participants to attend the 20th Conference of the Parties to the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES COP20), scheduled to take place in Samarkand from November 24 to December 5, 2025.

British Ambassador Timothy Smart stressed the importance of investing in the development of a "green" economy in Uzbekistan from the UK’s perspective.

“Projects aimed at the sustainable use of water resources, prevention of land degradation, and tackling climate change are of particular importance to us,” said the Ambassador. “Our goal is to help improve the environmental situation—especially in the context of the Aral Sea crisis—and to contribute to the well-being of the local population.”

Lord Waverley also noted the growing international standing of Uzbekistan.

“In recent years, under the leadership of the President, Uzbekistan has undergone significant transformations,” he said. “There is a strong focus on improving the country’s global ranking and that of its institutions. As a result, Uzbekistan’s image has improved markedly, and international media are publishing more and more positive coverage.”

He added, “The efforts being undertaken in the Aral Sea region are particularly impressive: measures to improve soil quality and prevent land degradation are a powerful testament to the country’s commitment to a sustainable future.”

The session concluded with a reaffirmation of Uzbekistan’s determination to continue its work to address the Aral Sea crisis—an issue of both regional and global significance—and to pursue international support for its environmental initiatives.