The objective of the round table was to inform a range of partners about UNDP activities in the field of environment and energy in Uzbekistan, for further strengthening existing and building new partnerships. UNDP has been working in the area of environmental protection and supporting the promotion of renewable energy and energy efficient technologies in Uzbekistan since mid-1990s. The current portfolio in this field includes close to ten projects, covering issues ranging from conservation of biodiversity, sustainable management of natural resources, livestock sector development, climate change mitigation and sustainable energy use.

Presentations delivered during the round-table provided a comprehensive overview of UNDP’s environmental portfolio in Uzbekistan, its key goals and achievements, and priorities for the next programming cycle (2010-2015), as outlined in the UN Development Assistance Framework (UNDAF) and UNDP’s Country Programme Action Plan (CPAP). As presented during the round-table, UNDP will continue its programmatic support in the area of environment and energy, focusing on integrating principles of sustainable development into national policies, strengthening legal and institutional frameworks, promoting community participation in environmental protection, within climate change mitigation and adaptation, carbon finance, biodiversity conservation, disaster risk management and sustainable land and water resources management focal areas. v During the round-table, which gathered representatives of national and international organizations extending support to Uzbekistan in the field of environmental protection, UNDP’s approach to development programming, and examples of successful cooperation with partner organization, were highlighted.

Welcoming participants of the event, Ms. Anita Nirody, UNDP Resident Representative said: “Today, with climatic variability and climate change a reality in many parts of the globe, including in Uzbekistan, we need to consolidate our efforts to support Uzbekistan’s sustainable development priorities”.

A small exhibition of photos and other visual materials set up at the event displayed vivid examples of UNDP’s work in the area of environment and energy, particularly working with local communities and training them in various aspects of environmental protection, and adapting world’s best practices and techniques to Uzbekistan’s context.

The round table provided a forum for an open dialogue between UNDP and a range of partners working in the field of environment and energy, thus building a platform for more successful and productive cooperation in the future.