Uzbekistan Minister Strengthens Environmental Ties with UAE

The Minister of Ecology, Environmental Protection, and Climate Change of Uzbekistan, Aziz Abdulkhakimov, paid an important visit to the Zayed International Foundation for the Environment in Dubai on Wednesday. The visit aimed to strengthen cooperation between Uzbekistan and the United Arab Emirates in environmental protection, sustainable development, and climate change mitigation.

Abdulkhakimov was accompanied by his advisor, Alisher Salomov, and the Ambassador of Uzbekistan to the UAE, Abdulaziz Akkulov. They were warmly welcomed by the Chairman of the Zayed International Foundation for the Environment, Dr. Mohamed Ahmed bin Fahad. Both parties expressed their appreciation for each other’s work in promoting environmental sustainability and protecting natural ecosystems.

Sharing of Environmental Goals and Projects

During the meeting, Minister Abdulkhakimov introduced the various projects and programs currently being implemented by the Ministry of Environment of Uzbekistan. He highlighted several key areas of focus, including biodiversity conservation, combating desertification, and addressing the challenges posed by climate change.

He explained how Uzbekistan is taking serious steps toward achieving sustainable development goals. The country’s government has launched multiple initiatives to protect its natural resources, reduce pollution, and promote renewable energy sources. These efforts are part of Uzbekistan’s broader strategy to build a green and sustainable future.

Zayed Foundation’s Role in Global Environmental Action

Dr. Mohamed Ahmed bin Fahad welcomed the Uzbek delegation and praised their ongoing environmental initiatives. He highlighted the role of the Zayed International Foundation for the Environment in promoting environmental awareness and sustainability, not only in the UAE but also across the world.

He emphasized that the foundation, named after the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, stands as a global model of environmental leadership. The foundation supports innovative programs, recognizes environmental excellence, and fosters international cooperation to protect the planet’s resources.

To honor the occasion, Dr. Bin Fahad presented the minister with a trophy and a collection of the foundation’s publications. This gesture symbolized their shared vision of collaboration and mutual respect in advancing global environmental goals.

Focus on Global Cooperation and Climate Solutions

The meeting focused on the importance of international cooperation in addressing today’s major environmental challenges. Both sides agreed that countries must work together to find solutions to climate change, desertification, and wildlife protection.

Dr. Bin Fahad reaffirmed the foundation’s readiness to expand partnerships with other countries. He stated that sharing knowledge and experience is essential to develop effective solutions for environmental issues. Similarly, Minister Abdulkhakimov expressed Uzbekistan’s commitment to participating in joint projects that could benefit not only the region but the entire world.

Upcoming International Environmental Events

During the visit, Minister Abdulkhakimov extended two important invitations to Dr. Bin Fahad. The first was to attend the High-Level Segment of CITES COP20, which will take place in November 2025 in Samarkand, Uzbekistan. This global event will mark the 50th anniversary of CITES, focusing on monitoring, funding, and action for regulated wildlife trade.

He also invited the chairman to participate in the Eco Expo Central Asia, which is scheduled to be held between May and June 2026. The event will promote eco-innovation and encourage dialogue among international environmental experts, organizations, and businesses.

Both invitations were seen as a sign of Uzbekistan’s growing leadership role in international environmental efforts and its desire to build stronger global partnerships for sustainability.

Strengthening Bilateral Environmental Relations

The visit by the Uzbek minister underscored the growing environmental partnership between Uzbekistan and the UAE. Both countries share a vision of a cleaner, more sustainable planet and have taken concrete steps toward addressing climate and biodiversity challenges.

This collaboration reflects the shared belief that protecting the environment is a universal responsibility. The discussions and future events will help build lasting cooperation between the two nations, bringing together expertise, innovation, and resources to safeguard the planet for future generations.

Through this visit, Uzbekistan and the UAE have reaffirmed their commitment to promoting global sustainability, reducing environmental risks, and fostering cooperation in environmental protection and climate action.