Uzbekistan and China strengthen cooperation in hydrometeorology and early warning systems

Uzbekistan and China strengthen cooperation in hydrometeorology and early warning systems

The Second China–Central Asia Forum on Meteorological Cooperation was held in Urumqi, China, from 21 to 23 September. The forum was attended by Farrukh Sattarov, Director of the National Climate Change Centre under the National Committee on Ecology; Doniyor Turgunov, Director of the Hydrometeorological Research Institute; as well as representatives of the hydrometeorological services of Central Asian countries and China, the World Meteorological Organization, research institutions and universities.

The Forum focused on strengthening regional cooperation in hydrometeorology, enhancing observation and early warning systems, sharing data, applying artificial intelligence and satellite technologies, and improving the forecasting of extreme weather events, sand and dust storms and other climate-related risks.

During the Central Asian Meteorological Symposium, the Uzbek side presented priority areas for cooperation with China and other countries of the region for 2026–2027.

One of the key areas discussed was the introduction of advanced digital solutions for early warning. In particular, the parties discussed the potential localisation and adaptation in Uzbekistan of MAZU, a Chinese intelligent platform that uses artificial intelligence, satellite data and other meteorological inputs to forecast hazardous weather events and generate early warnings. At the Forum, China presented its plan for introducing MAZU across Central Asian countries in 2026–2027.

Uzbekistan is considering the adaptation of the system to national conditions and hydrometeorological monitoring needs. Particular attention is expected to be given to forecasting sand and dust storms, droughts, extreme heat, heavy precipitation and floods.

Following the discussions, the parties agreed to further cooperation between Uzbek and Chinese specialists on the technical adaptation and integration of advanced early warning systems. As part of this work, the necessary technical solutions will be assessed, including requirements for server infrastructure, data exchange and integration with the national hydrometeorological system.

Another area of cooperation is the development of agrometeorology. The parties plan to explore opportunities to apply China’s experience in agricultural crop monitoring, drought and heat-stress assessment, irrigation planning and early warning of adverse weather conditions.

Particular attention was also given to scientific cooperation in desert meteorology, sand and dust storms, climate modelling and natural hazard forecasting. During the Forum, a working meeting was held with the leadership of the Institute of Desert Meteorology of the China Meteorological Administration. Following the meeting, the parties agreed to explore opportunities for developing joint research projects.

Another area of cooperation involves engagement with ZOGLAB, a Chinese company specialising in equipment for meteorological observations, environmental monitoring and the calibration of measuring instruments.

The Chinese side offered to provide Uzbekistan with a sample of monitoring equipment for testing and to explore opportunities to equip the national calibration facility with modern equipment, including a mobile calibration laboratory.

The development of advanced monitoring, forecasting and early warning systems will help improve the quality of hydrometeorological information and strengthen the country’s capacity to respond to hazardous natural phenomena and climate-related risks.

Cooperation between Uzbekistan and China in this area is aimed at further advancing technologies, promoting the exchange of expertise and data, strengthening scientific and technical capacityand enhancing the region’s resilience to the impacts of climate change.

https://gov.uz/en/eco/news/view/224589

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