By: Mr. Khalid Taimur Akram, Executive Director, Pakistan Research Center for a Community with Shared Future (PRCCSF), Islamabad
The United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) has unanimously approved a groundbreaking resolution, led by Uzbekistan and supported by several nations, to address critical environmental challenges in Central Asia.
Titled “Central Asia in the Face of Environmental Challenges: Strengthening Regional Solidarity for Sustainable Development and Prosperity”, the resolution reflects a united regional commitment to combat climate change and promote sustainable development.
A Call for Regional Cooperation
Climate change poses a serious threat to Central Asia, from rising temperatures to water scarcity. The resolution acknowledges these urgent issues and highlights joint initiatives to draw global attention, particularly to the drying of the Aral Sea.
It outlines key focus areas:
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Sustainable agriculture
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Water resource management
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Energy efficiency
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Waste recycling
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Sustainable tourism
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Smart cities and modern transport systems
Support from the Global Community
The UNGA urged the UN system, international institutions, investors, and donors to continue mobilizing resources to tackle environmental threats in the region. The resolution also endorses the Green Agenda for Central Asia, a program led by regional heads of state to promote sustainable growth.
Efforts to combat desertification, drought, and dust storms were emphasized. The resolution calls for innovative technologies and best practices to protect fragile mountain ecosystems and rapidly melting glaciers.
Uzbekistan’s Leadership in Sustainability
Uzbekistan has emerged as a key player in ensuring regional peace, sustainable water use, and clean energy adoption. President Shavkat Mirziyoyev has championed reforms aimed at economic growth, cooperation, and environmental protection.
His government targets generating 30% of the nation’s electricity from renewable sources by 2030. Significant milestones include:
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Establishing the International Innovation Center of the Aral Sea Region (2018)
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Launching the State Program for the Aral Sea Region
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Initiating development programs for Karakalpakstan
Global Appeal and the Climate Forum 2024
At the UN, President Mirziyoyev warned about alarming temperature rises and shrinking glaciers in the region. He called for urgent global action and announced Uzbekistan’s plan to host the International Climate Forum 2024.
The event will serve as a platform for global cooperation, attracting climate finance and fostering strategies to mitigate risks in Central Asia.
A Step Toward a Sustainable Future
The UN’s endorsement of this resolution marks a major step toward regional solidarity and environmental resilience. By working together, Central Asian nations and global partners can pave the way for a sustainable, prosperous future for the region.
