To bolster environmental sustainability and cooperation, Uzbekistan and Tajikistan have pledged to enhance their collaborative efforts following a high-level meeting held on March 29, the Ministry of Ecology, Environmental Protection, and Climate Change of Uzbekistan reported.
The meeting, which brought together Aziz Abduhakimov, the Minister of Ecology, Environmental Protection, and Climate Change of Uzbekistan, and Abdujabbor Rahmonzoda, the Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary Ambassador of the Republic of Tajikistan, discussed various avenues for advancing bilateral cooperation in environmental protection and sustainable development.
Among the key areas of focus were the gradual transition towards a green economy, the provision of a healthy and safe environment, and the attainment of Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Additionally, discussions centered around the development of environmental education and the enhancement of institutional and personnel capacity, taking into account both cultural nuances and international best practices.
The commitment of the Republic of Tajikistan to bolstering mutually beneficial cooperation with Uzbekistan was underscored during the meeting, with particular emphasis placed on supporting socio-economic and environmental reforms within the region.
Highlighting ongoing environmental initiatives, it was noted that Uzbekistan has been actively engaged in a program to plant trees at the bottom of the Aral Sea since 2018, with approximately 2 mn hectares already covered. Furthermore, Uzbekistan aims to increase green areas to 30% as part of the "Yashil Makon" (Green Nation) initiative, with plans to plant 125 mn saplings during the upcoming spring season.
The meeting also served as a platform for the exchange of expertise and information in various environmental domains. Discussions ranged from the establishment of transboundary protected natural areas to the proposal of collaborative grant projects with international environmental organizations. Additionally, attention was given to issues such as biodiversity protection, the conservation of migratory animal species, waste management, and the development of tourism and hydrometeorology.
As a result of the deliberations, important agreements were reached, signaling a commitment to intensify cooperation in ensuring a favorable environmental situation in the region. Both parties agreed to work more closely together, leveraging their respective strengths and resources to address shared environmental challenges effectively.
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