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At Eco Expo Central Asia 2025, Uzbekistan unveiled two major environmental initiatives that reinforce its commitment to sustainability and climate resilience:
Expansion of ecological recovery in Karakalpakstan, the region devastated by the Aral Sea crisis.
Launch of a national green certification system to support small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in adopting sustainable practices.
Transforming Karakalpakstan into a Sustainable Model
More than 2 million hectares of vegetation have already been planted on the dried seabed of the Aral Sea. This afforestation has reduced toxic dust storms, improved soil conditions, and revived biodiversity.
Now entering a new phase, Uzbekistan will promote:
“Our goal is to transform Karakalpakstan from an environmental disaster zone into a model of sustainable development,” said Aziz Abdukhakimov, Minister of Ecology, Environmental Protection and Climate Change.
A dedicated pavilion at the Expo showcased these innovations and called for new international partnerships.
National Green Certification for SMEs
Uzbekistan also announced a green certification programme to incentivize businesses to adopt eco-friendly operations. The system will:
“Many businesses still view environmental standards as a burden. This initiative will shift that perception,” Abdukhakimov said.
Global Recognition
UN Resident Coordinator Sabine Mahl commended Uzbekistan’s efforts, calling them a model for a just transition that integrates environmental recovery with social inclusion and economic opportunity.
With more than 30 countries and 20 international organisations represented, Eco Expo Central Asia 2025 highlighted Uzbekistan’s leadership in ecological restoration and green economic transformation.
The U.S.-Israeli war with Iran loomed over U.S. President Donald Trump's visit to China, as signs emerged that the conflict is causing a shift in alliances across the Middle East.
When Donald Trump boarded Air Force One for Beijing on Tuesday, he brought two cabinet members whose presence in China would have seemed unlikely a year ago, highlighting an unusual moment in U.S.–China relations.
The Eurovision Song Contest opened in Vienna on Tuesday amid heightened political tensions, as Israel competed in the first semi-final despite a boycott by five European broadcasters over the war in Gaza.
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