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

The seminar featured participation from ICBA Director General Tarifa Alzaabi, Deputy Minister of Ecology Environmental Protection and Climate Change Jusipbek Kazbekov, a representative of the International green technologies and investment projects Center Kairat Masenov, and others.
The event focused on identifying innovative solutions to the pressing challenges of land degradation, freshwater scarcity, and high soil salinity — conditions that affect more than 50% of irrigated lands in the region. Participants explored the potential of biosaline systems — integrated approaches based on the use of brackish water, salt-tolerant crops, renewable energy, and principles of the circular bioeconomy.

In his remarks, J. Kazbekov highlighted that the Ministry of Ecology is actively implementing remote sensing technologies to enhance the effectiveness of environmental initiatives such as “Yashil Makon”, as well as to monitor ecosystems along rivers, canals, and protected natural areas.

“We plan to integrate joint programs in artificial intelligence and geoinformation systems into the structure of Green University and eight other universities in the country under the Erasmus+ Environmental Engineering program. In this context, we propose considering Green University as a regional platform uniting Central Asian countries around proven AI solutions. Support in the form of high-resolution satellite imagery, specialized technical training, and funding for a regional innovation center will significantly advance our efforts,” noted the Deputy Minister.

Speaking on international cooperation, he emphasized the importance of partnerships with organizations such as ICBA and IICAS. He stated that a regional approach is essential, as challenges like salinization, land degradation, and climate pressure require coordinated solutions. He proposed the development of a regional halophyte seed network, joint training programs under Green University, and the creation of in vitro laboratories to study salt-tolerant crops. These steps would facilitate joint monitoring of desertification processes, data sharing, and the scaling of technologies in the most vulnerable regions.

Key topics discussed at the seminar included the introduction of biosaline crops and resilient agro-systems, the use of AI and remote sensing to improve productivity in saline environments, soil restoration, integration of solar energy and water reuse systems, as well as approaches to sustainable rural communities and project financing.

The seminar brought together a diverse range of participants — representatives from government agencies, international organizations, research institutions, and young innovators from across Central Asia. As a result, a common regional agenda was outlined to promote biosaline solutions, support sustainable agriculture, and strengthen cooperation with ICBA in enhancing the climate resilience of Central Asia.