The event was attended by the Minister of Ecology and Environmental Protection Aziz Abdukhakimov, UNDP Resident Representative in Uzbekistan Akiko Fujii, UNHCR Deputy Representative for Central Asia Dmitri Lipkan, Head of the Forestry, Land and Housing Division of the UNECE Liliana Annovazzi-Jacab, representatives of the Ministry of Ecology and its subordinate organizations.
In his welcoming speech at the opening of the seminar, A. Abdukhakimov noted the strategic importance of developing a master plan for the implementation of the national project “Yashil Makon”.
“In order to effectively and successfully implement our efforts within the framework of the Yaşil Makon project, we need to improve our knowledge and skills. In this regard, the support and experience of international partners is of particular importance. The development of a comprehensive and clearly targeted Master Plan is one of the most pressing tasks for the successful implementation of the project. The Master Plan not only clearly directs the activities of the initiative and sets tasks for all its participants, but also serves as a strategic roadmap for the development of new financial mechanisms based on international experience and the achievement of our common goals,” the Minister said.
During the meeting, the participants discussed the strategic direction and expected results of the project aimed at promoting sustainable development through the implementation of the Yashil Makon initiative. The project includes the development of a master plan, the introduction of innovative financial solutions and the creation of new sources of income for the population.
“Support for the Yaşil Makon initiative is at the heart of the UN’s cooperation with the Government of Uzbekistan. We are confident that together this initiative will set a benchmark for greening and sustainable development throughout the region. This is a significant contribution to the global sustainable development agenda, and we are proud to be part of this process,” said Akiko Fujii during the opening.
The project will use innovative approaches to ensure long-term sustainability and optimization of the Yashil Makon initiative. During the event, pilot sites for afforestation in the Surkhandarya region were presented, as well as sites for the creation of plant nurseries that will serve as the basis for the restoration of green areas.
“According to the project, the master plan will indicate which trees and in what territory should be planted, which seedlings are resistant to drought, the climate conditions of the region, salty soil and other factors. We will also create nurseries in the Surkhandarya region to employ needy and low-income families. In addition, further improvement of the Yashil Makon project platform is planned,” said Olim Khakimov, head of the Department of Forest Policy, Biodiversity and Ecotourism of the Ministry of Ecology.
Also during the seminar, participants discussed innovative approaches to using rainwater to create green spaces (parks) in cities and desert areas.
At the end of the meeting, the participants expressed confidence that the implementation of the Yashil Makon initiative will be an important step in solving global environmental problems and will contribute to improving the environmental situation not only in Uzbekistan but also in the region. The project’s master plan and new financial solutions based on international experience will ensure the sustainability of the initiative and create a basis for long-term development of green infrastructure.
