Tashkent, Uzbekistan (UzDaily.com) — The Minister of Ecology, Environment, and Climate Change of Uzbekistan Aziz Abdukhakimov met with the First Vice President of Gazprombank Ekaterina Salugina-Sorokova to discuss prospects for cooperation in adapting the Uzbek economy to water and climate challenges and global "green" transformation. The implementation of the relevant project is planned for 2025–2026.

The Russian side proposed conducting joint scientific research aimed at developing medium- and long-term strategies for adapting Uzbekistan’s economy to changing climate and water conditions. It was emphasized that the development of practical recommendations will not only enhance the expertise of Uzbek analytical centers in the economic and political assessment of water and climate risks but also strengthen scientific cooperation between the two countries.

Aziz Abdukhakimov noted that this project could become an important platform for the development of scientific collaboration, knowledge exchange, and advanced technologies in Central Asia. In this regard, it was proposed to create a working group and organize a study visit to the Central Asian University for Environmental and Climate Change Studies (Green University), where Uzbek and Russian experts could discuss water resource management issues.

As a result of the joint research, the development of a comprehensive "Strategy for Adapting the Economy of Uzbekistan to Water-Climate Changes until 2050" is planned.

The parties also agreed to further expand partnership in 2025, including the implementation of research projects and the holding of regular consultations as part of Uzbekistan’s "Year of Environmental Protection and Green Economy" initiative.