Navoi Delegation Studies China’s Anti-Desertification Efforts

Tashkent, Uzbekistan (UzDaily.com) — A delegation from Navoi region, led by Governor Normat Tursunov, is on an official visit to the People’s Republic of China, where it is studying advanced approaches to combating desertification and exploring avenues for bilateral cooperation.

During the trip, Uzbek representatives visited the Ningxia Hui Autonomous Region and Fujian province. In Ningxia, the delegation reviewed the operations of the Baijitan National Nature Reserve, where integrated methods to combat desertification are being implemented.

The site showcases a combination of engineering techniques for sand stabilization, protective forest belts, agricultural measures, and community involvement, linking environmental rehabilitation with economic activity. Ningxia is considered one of the regions most affected by desertification in China, facing arid conditions, soil erosion, sand movement, land degradation, and water scarcity.

Historical data indicates that in the 1960s the region experienced an average of 60 days of dust storms annually, rising to 79 days in the 1970s. The Ningxia experience highlights the need for a comprehensive approach to desertification control, combining state policy, sustainable land use, financing, engineering solutions, and economic incentives.

In Fujian, the delegation held talks with Governor Zhao Long, who presented the province’s economic potential and ongoing development projects.

The Navoi governor emphasized the region’s strengths in mining, chemicals, energy, textiles, food production, and construction materials. He also highlighted its transport and logistics infrastructure, including the international intermodal hub at Navoi airport, as well as rail and road networks linking the region with Europe, China, and South Asia.

Investment opportunities within the Navoi Free Economic Zone were also presented, including tax incentives, simplified land allocation procedures, and developed engineering infrastructure.

Following the meeting, Fujian’s governor invited Navoi region to expand bilateral cooperation in digitalization, construction materials production, and the chemical industry.