On 28 November 2025, an expert and academic seminar entitled “International Cooperation on Climate Change: Current Status and Prospects” was held in Tashkent. The event was jointly organized by the Institute for Macroeconomic and Regional Studies (IMRS) and the National Research University “Higher School of Economics” (HSE University).

The seminar focused on pressing climate challenges faced by Central Asian countries, as well as on issues of sustainable development and international cooperation in this area. Particular attention was given to the impact of climate change on socio-economic processes and to possible joint approaches aimed at strengthening the environmental sustainability of the region.

Experts presented analytical materials and assessments on current trends within the global climate agenda, emphasizing the importance of exchanging experience in the implementation of Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) principles.

The event was attended by Lobar Umarova, Chief Research Fellow of the Institute for Strategic and Regional Studies under the President of the Republic of Uzbekistan (ISRS), who shared her expert views on the ongoing reforms in water resources management in Uzbekistan.

L.Umarova highlighted the significance of Uzbekistan’s efforts to enhance international cooperation in the water sector, including the country’s active participation in dialogue platforms and projects focused on the joint management of transboundary water resources in the context of climate change.

It was noted that Uzbekistan maintains constructive dialogue at both bilateral and multilateral levels, which helps create favorable conditions for harmonizing regional approaches to water and climate policies.

Participants underscored the importance of accumulated experience in the rational use of water resources and the necessity of continuing coordinated efforts among Central Asian countries. According to the ISRS expert, effective interstate cooperation plays a decisive role in ensuring water security and sustainable development in the region.

Following the seminar, the parties reaffirmed their interest in further developing academic and expert cooperation between organizations of Uzbekistan and Russia. It was proposed to continue joint research in the areas of climate finance mobilization, transition to a low-carbon economy, and enhancing the resilience of Uzbekistan’s economy to climate change.