Transition to concrete ecological projects discussed with FAO

Transition to concrete environmental projects discussed with FAO

Aziz Abduhakimov, Advisor to the President of the Republic of Uzbekistan on Environmental Issues and Chairman of the National Committee on Ecology and Climate Change, held a meeting with Qu Dongyu, Director-General of the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO).

During the conversation, prospects for expanding cooperation in the areas of land and forest restoration, rational use of water and land resources, soil protection, green city development, combating desertification, climate finance, and chemical safety were reviewed.

Currently, Uzbekistan's cooperation with FAO includes more than 10 projects with a total grant funding of over 33 million US dollars. In particular, a joint FAO–European Union project worth 3.9 million euros is being implemented in the field of safe management of hazardous chemicals. In addition, the cities of Tashkent and Samarkand have joined FAO's "Green Cities Network".

Aziz Abduhakimov emphasized the need to transition from political initiatives and agreements to targeted projects with specific deadlines, funding sources, and measurable results. Special attention during the meeting was paid to the "Green Shield of Central Asia" initiative. This initiative is aimed at creating a system of regional protective forest plantations and green barriers to combat land degradation, desertification, sand, and dust storms. With FAO's support, it was proposed to move towards developing a concrete regional project, defining priority areas, indicators, and funding mechanisms.

The parties also discussed the development of the Regional Research Institute for Combating Desertification and Desert Economy under the "Green University", preparations for the UN Decade of Afforestation and Reforestation 2027–2036, as well as the development of the Central Asian Water and Land Nexus (CAWLN) regional program. Furthermore, to strengthen regional coordination, it was proposed to consider the possibility of establishing the CAWLN Program Office in Tashkent, based at the "Green University".

Special attention was also paid to turning the city of Samarkand into a pilot green and sustainable city in Central Asia. In particular, the creation of micro-forests and small botanical gardens in neighborhoods, water-saving landscaping, mulching, and the implementation of other nature-based solutions were discussed. It was noted that in the future, these practices could be applied to other cities in Uzbekistan and countries in the region.

Qu Dongyu shared China's experience in forest restoration, combating land degradation, and efficient use of water resources. It was noted that the experience of the Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region in restoring arid areas is of particular interest to Uzbekistan and Central Asia. The FAO Director-General also highlighted the importance of maintaining soil health and fertility as the foundation of sustainable agriculture and the restoration of degraded lands.

During the meeting, issues of training personnel for the green transition, safe management of pesticides and chemicals, as well as the preparation of a major climate project in Karakalpakstan were also reviewed.

The parties agreed to continue working on forming a new portfolio of projects to attract international climate finance, including funds from the Green Climate Fund, the Global Environment Facility (GEF), and other financial mechanisms. In conclusion, the FAO Director-General was invited to the "Eco Expo Central Asia 2027" exhibition, which will be held in Tashkent within the framework of the Tashkent International Investment Forum. It was also proposed to consider the possibility of organizing a special pavilion for FAO to showcase advanced solutions and joint projects in Uzbekistan and Central Asia.

Following the meeting, the parties confirmed their interest in a rapid transition from initiatives to concrete projects in the areas of land and forest restoration, rational use of water and soil resources, combating desertification, developing green cities, and restoring Aral Sea region ecosystems.