For reference: a Joint Statement was earlier signed between the President of the Republic of Uzbekistan, Shavkat Mirziyoyev and the President of the Republic of Finland, Alexander Stubb, covering a wide range of cooperation areas, including effective waste management and air quality protection.

According to the Declaration, the parties will cooperate in the following areas: — management and protection of water resources, including integrated water resources management; — sustainable and energy-efficient water supply and wastewater treatment technologies; — development of solutions in the field of automated online systems for environmental monitoring, hydrometeorological and agrometeorological observations, as well as localization of local water treatment facilities; — modernization, construction, reconstruction and operation of water management infrastructure, ensuring the safety of hydraulic structures; — introduction of management systems aimed at promoting efficient and rational water use; — effective management, assessment, monitoring and use of surface and groundwater resources; — protection and restoration of groundwater sources; — exchange of experience in applying water-saving technologies; — exchange of innovations and technologies, including remote sensing, data collection and processing; — joint scientific research and development of technical cooperation; — development of continuous online environmental monitoring systems covering air quality and water resources, among other areas.

In addition, the Declaration provides for the exchange of technical expertise, information, and best practices; joint organization of conferences, seminars, trainings and study visits; the development and implementation of pilot projects; as well as the establishment of business and investment partnerships between Finnish and Uzbek companies operating in the fields of ecology and water management.

This document is aimed at strengthening cooperation in environmental protection — in particular, in water resources management, sustainable development, the rational use of natural resources, climate change mitigation, and hydrometeorology — as well as fostering partnerships in the introduction of innovative and “smart” technologies for environmental monitoring and protection.