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

The event brought together more than 300 participants, including representatives of international organizations, diplomatic missions and conservation experts. The delegation of the Republic of Uzbekistan was represented by Permanent Representative to the United Nations Office in Geneva Eldiyor Toshmatov.

 Opening the meeting, CITES Secretary-General Ivonne Higuero noted that approximately 3,000 delegates from 185 countries are expected to attend in Samarkand. She emphasized that the conference will be one of the largest in the Convention’s history and will rank among the major conservation events of 2025. The forum will also host the 79th and 80th meetings of the CITES Standing Committee.

 “Samarkand will be a focal point for everyone engaged in wildlife conservation. Here we will discuss how to make international trade more responsible and sustainable,” Ivonne Higuero said. “By pursuing a path of ‘green’ development, Uzbekistan is demonstrating how conservation policy can be integral to a country’s strategic progress.”

 Uzbek representatives briefed attendees on the extensive preparations under way. More than 110 parallel events are already planned — ranging from expert seminars and exhibitions to thematic sessions. The agenda will include 114 items, supported by 149 working documents and 51 proposals to amend the Convention’s Appendices.

 Speakers at the briefing also highlighted the wide-ranging environmental reforms being implemented in Uzbekistan under the leadership of President Shavkat Mirziyoyev. Delegates noted the country’s adoption of innovative solutions to mitigate climate change impacts, restore ecosystems and promote sustainable use of natural resources. These efforts, the briefing concluded, present an opportunity to showcase Uzbekistan’s progress to a global audience during CITES CoP20. 

In closing, the CITES Secretariat presented the overall structure and key themes of the forthcoming conference, which will focus on improving Convention implementation, protecting threatened species, promoting sustainable use of natural resources and strengthening international cooperation.