Uzbekistan and UN Strengthen Cooperation on Climate Change, Counter-Terrorism, and Connectivity
In a recent development, the United Nations (UN) and Uzbekistan have come together to reinforce their collaboration in addressing pressing issues such as climate change, counter-terrorism, and connectivity. This move aims to improve peace, security, and development in the region.
During their visit to Tashkent, Miroslav Jenča, the Assistant Secretary-General for Europe, Central Asia, and the Americas, along with Kaha Imnadze, the Special Representative of the UN Secretary-General for Central Asia, Head of the UN Regional Centre for Preventive Diplomacy in Central Asia (UNRCCA), held significant meetings with high-ranking Uzbek officials, including President Shavkat Mirziyoyev, Chairperson of the Senate Tanzila Narbaeva, and Foreign Minister Bakhtiyor Saidov. They also engaged with the Regional Anti-Terrorism Structure of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization, civil society representatives, and the UN country team.
The discussions revolved around strengthening cooperation between the UN, specifically UNRCCA, and Uzbekistan to tackle challenges linked to climate change, transboundary water management, terrorism and extremism prevention, connectivity, the situation in Afghanistan, and other issues relevant to peace, security, and development. The officials expressed their support for UNRCCA’s initiatives in addressing the water-security nexus and enhancing regional counter-terrorism efforts. They also emphasized the importance of involving more women and youth in preventive diplomacy, aligning with Uzbekistan’s priorities of empowering women in decision-making processes and offering quality education and employment opportunities to young people.
As a significant milestone in regional cooperation, President Mirziyoyev announced the resumption of the Consultative Meetings of the Central Asian Leaders and the introduction of the Samarkand spirit to promote stability and prosperity in the region. This concept was initially outlined in the Communiqué of the International Conference on Security and Sustainable Development in Central Asia, which took place in Samarkand in November 2017 with the support of UNRCCA.
This strengthened partnership between Uzbekistan and the UN signifies their commitment to addressing critical regional issues. By pooling their resources and expertise, they aim to combat climate change, promote stability, and foster economic development in Central Asia. This collaboration reflects the global concern for tackling pressing challenges and working towards a secure and prosperous future for the region.
In conclusion, the partnership between Uzbekistan and the UN to address climate change, counter-terrorism, and connectivity marks a crucial step in promoting peace, security, and development in Central Asia. The discussions held between high-level officials have laid the groundwork for enhanced cooperation and a shared commitment to tackling regional challenges. With the resumption of Central Asian Leaders’ Meetings and the introduction of the Samarkand spirit, Uzbekistan aims to foster stability and prosperity in the region. This collaboration exemplifies the joint efforts of the UN and Uzbekistan in addressing critical issues and building a secure and prosperous future for Central Asia.
