Eco Expo Central Asia 2026 opens in Samarkand

Tashkent, Uzbekistan (UzDaily.com) — The official opening ceremony of the international environmental exhibition Eco Expo Central Asia 2026 took place on 2 June at the Silk Road Samarkand complex exhibition centre.

The large-scale event brought together representatives from more than 100 countries, heads of international organisations, diplomatic missions, investors, producers of environmental goods, developers of innovative solutions, as well as government officials and experts.

The exhibition was officially inaugurated with a ribbon-cutting ceremony attended by Aziz Abdukhakimov, Advisor to the President of Uzbekistan and Chairman of the National Committee for Ecology and Climate Change; Inger Andersen, Deputy Secretary-General of the United Nations and Executive Director of the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP); and Grethel Aguilar, Director General of the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN).

In his opening remarks, Abdukhakimov said Eco Expo Central Asia is intended to serve as an effective international platform for building practical partnerships, developing investment-attractive environmental projects, launching joint initiatives, and strengthening long-term cooperation in sustainable development.

He described the forum as a “green technological bridge” between Central Asia and the global community, connecting innovation, investment, knowledge, and practical solutions for a sustainable future.

The exhibition focuses on promoting economic growth through the adoption of advanced environmental technologies while preserving natural resources for future generations.

During the ceremony, it was proposed that Samarkand be declared the “capital of green investment and innovation” in Central Asia, highlighting its growing role as an international platform for environmental diplomacy and sustainable finance.

Eco Expo Central Asia aims to advance the green economy, promote environmentally friendly solutions, and expand international cooperation in environmental protection and sustainable development.

The 2026 edition marks a significant expansion of the initiative, with around 10,000 participants expected, over 68 exhibition pavilions, and 20 dedicated platforms for startups and eco-innovators.

More than 50 thematic events are scheduled, including forums and side events focused on renewable energy, waste management, water resources, climate adaptation, and sustainable development goals.

The event reinforces Uzbekistan’s growing role as a regional hub for environmental cooperation and its commitment to advancing the global sustainability agenda.