AGP Executive Report

Eco Expo Central Asia 2026: Uzbekistan kicked off a major green investment and technology fair in Samarkand (June 2–4), with the Environment Authority joining sessions on financing green growth, climate adaptation, biodiversity and water-saving solutions. Biosafety & biodiversity: Uzbekistan launched a national biosafety initiative under the Cartagena Protocol, funded by the GEF, aiming to strengthen risk assessment, monitoring and lab capacity to protect biodiversity. GEF momentum: Tashkent Zoo took part in the 8th GEF Assembly in Samarkand, highlighting conservation and public ecological education. Water & climate resilience: A GEF Council update in Samarkand approved new resilience funding (over $67m) for vulnerable countries to cut flood and coastal risks and bolster food and water security. Aral Sea context: A new explainer revisits how terminal-lake collapse—linked to water diversion—has devastated ecosystems, including the Aral Sea region, underscoring today’s water crisis stakes. Regional dialogue: Uzbekistan’s second Termez Dialogue (June 4–6) will include a “shared sustainable development agenda,” with discussions on transit, trade and regional cooperation.

Eco Expo Central Asia 2026: Samarkand opened Eco Expo Central Asia 2026 on June 2, running through June 4, with participation from 100+ countries and major UN and IUCN leaders; the event is framed as a “green technological bridge” linking climate, water, biodiversity, clean tech, green finance and Aral Sea priorities. Biosafety & Biodiversity: Uzbekistan launched a national biosafety initiative under the Cartagena Protocol, financed by the GEF, aiming to strengthen biosafety policy, inter-agency coordination, lab capacity, and risk assessment to protect biodiversity. GEF Momentum in Samarkand: Uzbekistan’s Environment Authority and Tashkent Zoo took part in the 8th GEF Assembly, while experts urged better whole-of-government coordination so environmental funding delivers lasting results. Water & Resilience Funding: At the GEF Council meeting, new resilience funding was approved for vulnerable countries, including projects targeting flood/coastal risks and food and water security. Regional Connectivity: Uzbekistan will host the second Termez Dialogue on June 4–6, with discussions spanning connectivity, security, climate change and cooperation with Afghanistan. Agriculture Support: Uzbekistan donated certified seeds to Afghanistan to boost food security and rural livelihoods, including cotton, rice, and vegetable/melon varieties.

GEF Funding Push in Samarkand: Uzbekistan hosted the 71st GEF Council as delegates reviewed a $3.9bn replenishment package for 2026–2030, with calls to strengthen safeguards so communities, Indigenous Peoples, and smaller partners aren’t left behind while pollution, biodiversity loss, and climate risks stay central. Water Diplomacy in Dushanbe: OSCE, UNU-INWEH and CAREC wrapped a seminar on cooperation over shared waters, stressing trust-building through shared data and inclusive policy, alongside a women parliamentarians meeting focused on advancing the water agenda. Salinization Warning: A water expert warned that saltwater intrusion and salinization could threaten food security and trigger migration pressures, linking water management directly to agriculture resilience. Uzbekistan Waste Cleanup: Uzbekistan removed over 70,000 tons of household waste across 14,400 mahallas, using tens of thousands of workers and specialized equipment to improve sanitation and prevent environmental hazards. Green Energy Corridor Talk: Uzbekistan’s energy minister said cooperation with Azerbaijan on the Central Asia–Azerbaijan Green Energy Corridor is key to exporting clean electricity to Europe, alongside targets for renewable capacity growth. Transboundary Weather Concerns: Kyrgyz experts voiced worries about Kazakhstan’s rain-making “cloud-seeding” and urged negotiations and regional agenda-setting before artificial rain becomes a precedent. Aral Sea Agriculture Innovation: ICBA and Uzbekistan launched a co-op to boost Aral Sea region agriculture with green innovation. Local Governance Check: Tashkent authorities denied claims that Sergeli car market would be demolished, saying renovation and modernization are underway instead.

GEF in Samarkand: The 71st Global Environment Facility Council opened in Uzbekistan’s Samarkand, with delegates reviewing a $3.9B replenishment for 2026–2030 and pushing stronger safeguards so local communities and Indigenous groups aren’t left behind. Waste Cleanup Drive: Uzbekistan removed over 70,000 tons of household waste across 14,400 mahallas in late May, using 33,000 workers and thousands of sanitation units to improve public health and environmental safety. Water Diplomacy in Dushanbe: OSCE, UNU-INWEH and CAREC wrapped a seminar on cooperation over shared waters, stressing inclusive negotiation and data-sharing for transboundary trust. Pasture Restoration in Khatlon: Tajikistan’s resilient landscapes project reported improved winter grazing conditions in Shahritus, Qubodiyon and Nosiri Khusrav, citing rotational grazing and pasture user unions boosting forage productivity. Forestry & Desertification: Uzbekistan and Japan’s OISCA signed an MoU to expand reforestation and sustainable forest management, targeting desertification impacts. Green Energy Corridor Talk: Uzbekistan and Azerbaijan reiterated plans to strengthen the Central Asia–Azerbaijan Green Energy Corridor, aiming for large-scale renewable growth and clean electricity exports.

GEF in Samarkand: Uzbekistan kicked off the Eighth Global Environment Facility (GEF) Assembly in Samarkand, with the 71st GEF Council meeting also underway as donors and developing countries debate how to scale climate and biodiversity finance toward 2030. GEF-8 funding push: The GEF Council approved a final $144.3m disbursement for GEF-8, backing 16 projects—from protecting migratory bird flyways and improving Central Asia water management to blended finance for renewable power and storage in Uzbekistan. Water diplomacy: Kyrgyzstan called for compensation mechanisms and stronger regional cooperation as glacier melt accelerates and water supplies decline across Central Asia. Local environment governance: Uzbekistan’s environmental agenda is also reflected in the Samarkand talks, where officials stress more accessible, equitable pathways to environmental funding. Aral-era agriculture innovation: ICBA and Uzbekistan launched a co-op to boost Aral Sea region agriculture and green innovation. Clean energy context: A UAE renewables analysis highlights how solar plus storage is becoming a resilience strategy, not just a climate fix.

GEF Funding Boost in Samarkand: The 71st Global Environment Facility Council approved a final $144.3m disbursement under GEF-8 and backed a 16-project plan aimed at 2030 goals, including biodiversity work, ocean ecosystem protection, and Central Asia water management, with Uzbekistan-linked renewable power support via blended finance. Water Security in Central Asia: Kyrgyzstan called for compensation mechanisms for shared water and energy resources as glacier melt accelerates, warning that without glaciers there will be no river water—and no life in valley communities. GEF Council Meeting Focus: The Samarkand gathering, ahead of the Eighth GEF Assembly and Eco Expo Central Asia 2026, will shape climate and environment funding priorities for 2026–2030, with delegates weighing how to expand access to environmental finance. Climate Adaptation Research: A regional webinar highlighted how rainfall shortages and climate shocks are hitting household incomes and food security across Central Asia, stressing the need to turn research into practical protection for vulnerable groups. Termez Dialogue on Resilience: Uzbekistan will host the second Termez Dialogue on connectivity (June 4–6), with sessions including climate adaptation and environmental resilience.

GEF & Eco Expo Build-Up: GEF acting CEO Claude Gascon arrived in Samarkand ahead of the 8th Global Environment Facility Assembly and Eco Expo Central Asia 2026, with Uzbekistan’s ecology and climate committee hosting the delegation and setting the stage for talks on climate, the green economy, and sustainable development. Climate Risk Research: An ADB webinar in the Asian Impact series discussed how rainfall shortages and other climate shocks are hitting household welfare across Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, and Uzbekistan, with a focus on low-income and female-headed families and the need to turn climate data into practical protection. Aral Sea Green Farming Deal: Uzbekistan and ICBA signed a cooperation agreement for the Aral Sea region targeting climate change, water scarcity, and soil salinization, plus a farmer accelerator program supported by an Abu Dhabi Fund for Development grant. Green Industry via Skills: Uzbekistan held talks on shifting to a green economy by embedding green competencies into TVET and higher education, aligning policy across labor and climate areas, and feeding results into a national roadmap under CAREC. Energy Transition Push: JinkoSolar agreed to supply 1 GW of solar modules to Uzbekistan for distributed generation and large-scale plants, as the country accelerates renewable energy despite heat and sandstorm challenges. Sustainable Telecom: ZTE and Ucell rolled out an AI-RAN network in Uzbekistan that improves energy efficiency by optimizing power use during low traffic while keeping service stable.

Climate & Water Risk: A new study warns Central Asia saw record glacier melting in 2025, threatening freshwater supplies for millions across Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Uzbekistan and Kazakhstan. Aral Sea Green Farming: Uzbekistan and ICBA signed an Aral Sea region cooperation deal targeting climate change, water scarcity and soil salinization, with a farmer accelerator program supported by an Abu Dhabi Fund grant. GEF & Eco Expo Prep: GEF acting chief Claude Gascon arrived in Samarkand ahead of the 8th GEF Assembly and Eco Expo Central Asia 2026, signaling stronger international focus on ecology and climate action. Green Economy Skills: Uzbekistan discussed a transition to a green economy by embedding green competencies into TVET and higher education, aiming to feed a national roadmap and CAREC cooperation. Energy Transition (Solar): JinkoSolar agreed to supply 1 GW of photovoltaic modules to Uzbekistan for distributed generation and large solar projects. Green Industry via EAEU: President Mirziyoyev proposed an EAEU “Green Transformation” program for energy-efficient industry, clean technologies and lower carbon intensity, plus AI tools and linked labor-market systems. Sustainable Telecom: ZTE and Ucell rolled out an AI-RAN energy-saving network solution in Uzbekistan, boosting energy efficiency by 10.6%. Regional Connectivity: Tashkent will host the second Termez Dialogue (June 4–6) on peace, connectivity and sustainability.

Climate resilience research: A CAREC/Asian Development Bank webinar used household panel data (2021–2023) plus satellite weather to show how rainfall shortages and other climate shocks hit incomes, food security, and hardship in Central Asia—especially for low-income and female-headed households. Glacier melt alarm: A new study warns Central Asia saw its worst glacier mass loss on record in 2025, with about 30 cubic kilometers of ice lost, threatening freshwater supplies for millions and worsening the regional climate crisis. Water diplomacy tensions: A high-level water meeting in Dushanbe highlighted both cooperation on reservoir releases and growing friction over upstream/downstream responsibilities as glacier-fed water stress intensifies. Green industry push: Uzbekistan proposed an EAEU “Green Transformation” program to boost energy efficiency, clean technologies, and lower carbon intensity, including a joint portfolio of green projects and AI-enabled modernization. Aral Sea green agriculture: Uzbekistan and ICBA signed an agreement to tackle climate change, water scarcity, and soil salinization in the Aral Sea region, backed by a farmer accelerator program. Renewables deal: JinkoSolar will supply 1 GW of solar modules to Uzbekistan for distributed generation and large plants, as the country expands its energy mix. Green skills for jobs: Uzbekistan discussed transitioning to a green economy by embedding green competencies into TVET and higher education, aligned with labor-market and climate policy through CAREC cooperation. Eco Expo leadership: GEF chief Claude Gascon arrived in Samarkand ahead of GEF Assembly and Eco Expo Central Asia 2026, signaling Uzbekistan’s growing role in global environmental talks. Energy-saving telecom: ZTE and Ucell deployed an AI-RAN network to cut energy use while keeping service quality, improving energy efficiency by 10.6%.

Glacier Alarm for Central Asia: A new international study says Central Asia saw its “most extreme mass-loss year on record” in 2025, losing about 30 cubic kilometers of ice and threatening freshwater supplies for millions across Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Uzbekistan and Kazakhstan. Water Security Tensions: At a high-level water conference in Dushanbe, countries traded cooperation claims while Kyrgyzstan pressed for compensation mechanisms to fund reservoir upkeep and glacier protection. Tashkent’s Green-Linked Infrastructure Push: Tashkent signed over US$3.5 billion in China deals covering transport, public spaces, environmental services and industry, including BRT lanes and drainage upgrades. New Airport, With Environmental Steps: Uzbekistan’s “New Tashkent” airport talks continue for a 20 million passengers/year plan, with an environmental and social impact assessment already completed and work starting on relocating canals and power networks. Tourism Goes Digital: Uzbekistan is expanding promotion via Asian online travel platforms, including Trip.com and Fliggy, to boost arrivals from China and beyond. Clean Tech in Telecom: Ucell and ZTE rolled out an AI energy-saving network solution across Uzbekistan, aiming to cut electricity use and emissions.

Tashkent–China Deals: Tashkent signed US$3.5 billion in investment and export agreements with Chinese partners in Xi’an, covering road and BRT lanes, transport and social infrastructure, multi-storey housing in renovation zones, and drainage and irrigation upgrades—using an EPC+F model with long-term city payments. New Airport Push: Negotiations continue for the “New Tashkent” international airport aimed at 20 million passengers a year, with an environmental and social impact assessment already completed and work started on relocating canals, collectors and power lines. Water Security Tensions: At a major water conference in Dushanbe, Kyrgyzstan urged compensation mechanisms for upstream costs tied to reservoirs, hydraulic infrastructure and glacier preservation, warning that water stress could become a regional security issue. Digital Tourism Boost: Uzbekistan is expanding its tourism reach via Asian online platforms, including deals to promote destinations through Trip.com and Fliggy, citing rising Chinese interest and package sales. Clean Tech in the Air: ERA signed a contract to deliver a Wide Area Multilateration system for Kyrgyzstan’s southern airspace, reflecting continued investment in safer, more reliable regional aviation infrastructure. Energy Efficiency Tech: Ucell and ZTE rolled out an AI-powered network energy-saving solution across Uzbekistan, reporting a 10.6% improvement in energy efficiency. Policy Updates from June 1: New regulations will take effect from 1 June, including measures touching environmental protection and public procurement, alongside changes in pharmaceuticals and digital transformation.

Satellite Connectivity: Viasat, Uzbekistan’s Ministry of Digital Technologies, UZ-SAT and Uztelecom showcased the country’s first direct-to-device satellite messaging demo, sending native SMS between Android phones via satellite—aimed at bringing always-on connectivity to remote regions. Energy Efficiency in Telecom: Ucell and ZTE rolled out an AI-powered RAN energy-saving system across Uzbekistan’s network, boosting the energy efficiency ratio by 10.6% to cut power use and emissions. Green Energy Cooperation: Uzbekistan and China signed a green energy science and innovation cooperation memo in Xi’an, targeting renewable energy tech, joint research and investment. Transport & Air Quality Risks: President Mirziyoyev reviewed major transport infrastructure plans, including an alternative Tashkent–Samarkand highway; meanwhile Tashkent faces possible short-term dust storms that could raise PM10, with residents urged to limit outdoor time. Water & Land Governance: FAO wrapped up a Land Code revision support project in Uzbekistan, delivering policy recommendations for agricultural land governance. Regional Water Stress: Kyrgyzstan called for compensation mechanisms to help fund water infrastructure and glacier preservation as glaciers melt. Sustainable Aviation Fuel: ENOC signed an MoU with Allied Biofuels to explore long-term SAF and e-SAF supply and distribution, with production planned in Uzbekistan.

Air Quality Alert: Tashkent may see short-term dust storms on May 27, with PM10 levels temporarily rising as winds from the west strengthen; residents are urged to limit outdoor time and use protective masks if needed. Water & Climate Diplomacy: Kyrgyzstan is pushing for regional compensation mechanisms to fund water infrastructure upkeep and glacier preservation, warning that melting glaciers threaten Central Asia’s river flows. Green Energy Cooperation: Uzbekistan and China signed a cooperation memo in Xi’an to boost renewable energy science and joint research, aiming to speed up green economy projects. Aviation Decarbonisation: ENOC signed an MoU with Allied Biofuels to explore SAF and e-SAF supply and distribution, with production planned from an Uzbekistan facility. Land & Farming Governance: FAO wrapped up a project in Tashkent supporting Uzbekistan’s Land Code revision, focusing on agricultural land governance and policy recommendations. Transport Infrastructure: President Mirziyoyev reviewed plans for major transport upgrades, including an alternative Tashkent–Samarkand highway and expanded civil aviation modernization. Small Business Reform: Uzbekistan plans to raise the small business tax threshold from 1bn to 5bn soums from June 1, easing growth for firms. Aral Sea Restoration: Kazakhstan reported progress on Aral Sea bed afforestation as a key strategy to stabilize exposed soils and curb toxic dust spread.

Carbon Registry Rollout: The Democratic Republic of Congo has named Lumiere as its sovereign carbon registry, with a full unveiling planned at the GEF Assembly in Samarkand on 1–6 June—moving from COP30 promises to an operational build. World Cup Logistics: Uzbekistan’s team will base in Atlanta for FIFA World Cup 2026, using the Atlanta United training center in Marietta as the tournament’s 48-team, three-country setup ramps up. Green Energy Deals: Uzbekistan and China are expanding renewable-energy cooperation after a Xi’an memorandum linking Uzbek research and China Datang partners to joint green tech and investment. Water & Air Watch: Uzbekistan is pushing water-saving infrastructure nationwide, while Tashkent faces possible short-term dust storms on 27 May that could temporarily worsen air quality. Business & Reform: A key small-business tax proposal would raise the threshold for switching to the general tax regime from 1bn to 5bn soums from 1 June.

Transport & Trade Rewiring: Uzbekistan is pushing a new transport push—President Mirziyoyev reviewed large-scale infrastructure plans including an alternative Tashkent–Samarkand highway (282 km) and wider civil aviation development, while Tashkent also eyes a 100-km toll ring road and a paid expressway to the planned airport. Small Business Reset: New tax proposals would raise the switch to the general tax regime from 1bn to 5bn soums from June 1, 2026, plus a simplified VAT option for catering, trade and services. Water Security: FAO wrapped up Uzbekistan’s Land Code reform support, and the government is accelerating water-saving works—concreting canals and riverbeds to cut water use and reduce flood risk. Clean Air Alerts: Tashkent may see short-term dust storms and higher PM10 on May 27, with precautions urged. Energy & Climate Tech: Uzbekistan and China expanded green energy cooperation in Xi’an, while ENOC and Allied Biofuels advanced sustainable aviation fuel plans tied to production in Uzbekistan. Business Deal: UzChasys’ 70% state stake was sold via e-auksion for 332.96bn soums.

Urban Utilities Push: Tashkent and Tianjin have signed new cooperation documents to overhaul drainage and sewage, with talks also covering wastewater treatment upgrades and water reuse. Transport Expansion: Tashkent is advancing plans for a ~100 km toll ring road plus a paid expressway to the planned new international airport, with Chinese firm CRCC discussing broader urban renewal work. Water Efficiency Drive: President Mirziyoyev chaired measures to improve water resource use, citing large-scale canal and riverbed concreting and water-saving irrigation reforms. Agri Value-Chain Boost: ICBA and Uzbekistan’s Agency for Innovative Development launched a Farmers’ and Agro-Entrepreneurs Accelerator in Nukus, Karakalpakstan, supported by the Abu Dhabi Fund for Development. Clean Air Campaign: Uzbekistan will hold a nationwide “Car-Free Day” environmental push, restricting official vehicle use to cut emissions. Business & Industry Links: Tashkent region agreed on 36 investment projects with China; Samarkand discussed modern and biodegradable packaging with Chinese companies. Sports Spotlight: India’s Pranati Nayak won silver in vault at the FIG World Challenge Cup in Tashkent.