On February 17, 2025, a meeting was held between the First Deputy Director of ISRS Akramjon Nematov and the Head of the Regional Office of the International Water Management Institute (IWMI) in Central Asia Barbara Janusz-Pawletta, Deputy Head of Mission of the Embassy of Switzerland in Uzbekistan Andrin Fink and the Regional Advisor on Water Resources and Climate Change of the Swiss Agency for Development and Cooperation (SDC) Lisa Marina Gumpp.

The parties discussed prospects for strengthening mutual cooperation, primarily on water resources and overcoming climate challenges in Central Asia.

 In particular, it was noted that in order to improve coordination of efforts in the region, a water and climate dialogue has already been launched, the  Central Asian University of environmental studies and climate change (Green University) has been created, and the regional program "Green Agenda" and strategy for adaptation to climate change have been adopted.

The interlocutors acknowledged that these steps create a solid foundation for further cooperation. Particular attention was paid to the fact that in the context of growing environmental threats, holding the Global Climate Forum in Uzbekistan this year at the initiative of President Shavkat Mirziyoyev is of particular importance. It was emphasized that organizing this event demonstrates the importance of combining efforts to find solutions in the fight against global challenges. The forum will become a key platform for discussing and developing strategies aimed at ensuring sustainable development of the region.

The meeting participants also focused on strengthening cooperation in areas of mutual interest. Interest was expressed in organizing joint events aimed at strengthening regional cooperation in the field of adaptation to climate change and developing cooperation in the water sector.

In this context, taking advantage of the opportunity, representatives of IWMI and SDC presented the regional project "Blue Peace Central Asia", implemented by the International Water Management Institute (IWMI) with the financial support of the Swiss Agency for Development and Cooperation (SDC).

The Blue Peace Initiative, launched by Switzerland in 2010, has been active in Central Asia since 2017 as part of a special regional program. It combines water diplomacy, regional water cooperation projects, capacity building for water experts, and youth engagement. The initiative’s geographic scope includes five Central Asian countries and Afghanistan.

The new phase of the Blue Peace Central Asia initiative is designed for five years – from May 2025 to September 2029. The project covers three key areas: improving water quality, adapting to changing climate conditions, and integrating water and energy resources.