Exploring Financial Support for Environmental Projects in Central Asia at Tashkent Orient
High-Level Policy Dialogue on Financing Environmental Goals in Central Asia
A high-level policy dialogue took place in Tashkent on March 11 under the theme “Expanding Finance and Investment to Achieve Environmental Goals in Central Asia.” The event, organized by Uzbekistan’s Ministry of Ecology, Environmental Protection, and Climate Change, in collaboration with Germany’s Federal Ministry for the Environment, the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD), and the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD), aimed to address the pressing need for increased funding in critical environmental areas.
Central Asian countries, including Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Mongolia, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, and Uzbekistan, have made progress in attracting investment for renewable energy projects. However, there are still shortages in financing other important environmental initiatives. The dialogue brought together key stakeholders from the region, international organizations, and financial institutions to discuss challenges in financing environmental projects, with a specific focus on water, energy, land resources, biodiversity conservation, and nature-based solutions.
Participants, including government officials, ambassadors, and representatives from environmental agencies, explored ways to improve water efficiency, control pollution, and promote sustainable agriculture. Discussions also highlighted the importance of collaboration among financial institutions and the use of blended finance tools to make environmental projects more appealing to investors. One of the significant outcomes of the event was the establishment of the “Central Asia Nature Partnership,” led by the EBRD, to support environmental investments and nature-positive business strategies in the region.
The partnership aims to implement scalable projects that reduce natural resource losses, enhance biodiversity, and strengthen climate resilience across Central Asia. The dialogue in Tashkent underscored the importance of regional cooperation and innovative financing mechanisms to achieve sustainable development and address climate challenges effectively. Participants stressed the need for greater coordination at national and regional levels to drive progress in environmental conservation and climate action in Central Asia.
Overall, the high-level policy dialogue served as a vital platform for stakeholders to exchange ideas, explore new opportunities for financing environmental projects, and reinforce their commitment to advancing environmental goals in Central Asia.
(Photo: Yuz.uz)
