Tashkent, Uzbekistan (UzDaily.com) — On 24-25 January, a seminar hosted by the Forestry Agency took place in Tashkent Region, focusing on the development of the sector in 2025 — the "Year of Environmental Protection and the 'Green' Economy."

The Minister of Ecology, Environmental Protection, and Climate Change of Uzbekistan, Aziz Abdukhakimov, highlighted positive changes in forest conservation driven by President Shavkat Mirziyoyev’s initiatives, while also pointing out ongoing challenges.

Presentations were made by Zinoviy Novitskiy, head of the laboratory at the Forest Research Institute, and Turkish expert Ahmet Yalvach.

The seminar emphasized the importance of drawing on foreign expertise and resources. The Director of the Forestry Agency, Erkin Mukhtidinov, underlined the significance of projects with the World Bank, KOICA, and FAO for enhancing ecology and natural resource management.

World Bank representative Asferasiu Abate noted that the “Sustainable Landscapes for Sustainable Livelihoods in Uzbekistan” project not only contributes to nature conservation but also improves the quality of life for the population. The project includes strengthening forest management, digital forest monitoring, and creating income-generating activities for rural populations linked to forests and medicinal plants.

KOICA specialist Yun Taeksun discussed a project for 2024-2028, which involves forest restoration using "smart" technologies, the construction of greenhouses, pistachio sapling cultivation, the establishment of a research station, and urban greening.

FAO Chief Technical Advisor Narimon Nishonov mentioned that the sustainable forest and pasture management project will assist Uzbekistan in adapting to climate change and effectively utilizing natural resources.

During the seminar, the Forestry Agency and the Ministry of Emergency Situations signed a memorandum of cooperation.