Tashkent, Uzbekistan (UzDaily.com) — On 31 January 2025, Tashkent hosted the official launch of the project "Climate-Resilient Integrated Water Resources Management of the Zarafshan River Basin." The initiative is supported by the Swiss government in collaboration with Uzbekistan’s Ministry of Ecology, Environmental Protection, and Climate Change, as well as the Swiss Embassy.

The ceremony was attended by Aziz Abdukhakimov, Minister of Ecology, Environmental Protection, and Climate Change; Konstantin Obolensky, Ambassador of Switzerland to Uzbekistan; along with representatives from ministries, international organizations, the academic community, and the media.

Aziz Abdukhakimov highlighted the project’s importance in the context of the declared Year of Environmental Protection and Green Economy. "In the face of climate change and growing demand for water resources, this project will not only optimize water use but also create a long-term foundation for climate adaptation in five regions of the country," said the minister.

The project, implemented by Caritas Switzerland (CACH) in partnership with the Central Asia Regional Environmental Center (CAREC), will cover the Samarkand, Jizzakh, Navoi, Bukhara, and Kashkadarya regions. Its goal is to improve the living standards of the population through effective water resource management and the adoption of innovative technologies.

Swiss Ambassador Konstantin Obolensky emphasized the importance of experience exchange and the implementation of modern monitoring technologies. "By strengthening data collection systems, promoting innovative devices, and applying Swiss expertise, we provide farmers and policymakers with tools for informed decision-making."

As part of the project, more than 50 climate monitoring stations will be installed, over 30 wells will be automated for groundwater observation, and more than 100 farmers will be trained in efficient water use.

Additionally, the project will introduce the concept of "Green Schools" in educational institutions and establish a regional platform for data exchange on water and weather.

Following the event, agreements were signed to lay the foundation for the project’s implementation. It is expected that modern water management methods will improve the availability and efficiency of water use in the face of climate change.