BAKU, Azerbaijan, June 24. Uzbekistan’s
Ministry of Agriculture and the United Nations Development
Programme (UNDP) have reviewed progress on joint initiatives aimed
at improving livelihoods, strengthening environmental
sustainability, and promoting modern agricultural practices in the
Aral Sea region.


This was reflected in the statement published by the Ministry of
Agriculture of Uzbekistan.


The discussions took place during a meeting between Deputy
Minister of Agriculture Alisher Shukurov and representatives of
UNDP Uzbekistan, where the two sides assessed the results of
ongoing cooperation and explored future areas of partnership.


A key focus of the meeting was the implementation of the project
titled “Enhancing the Resilience and Supporting the Green and
Inclusive Development of the Most Vulnerable Populations in the
Aral Sea Region.” Officials highlighted significant improvements to
water supply infrastructure in the Kegeyli and Karaozak districts
of the Republic of Karakalpakstan. As a result, nearly 3,000 rural
residents have gained access to safe and reliable drinking
water.


Beyond infrastructure development, the project has also
contributed to improving agricultural productivity. Three
agricultural cooperatives in pilot areas received technical
assistance to introduce resource-efficient farming technologies and
expand employment opportunities. According to officials, the
cooperatives now provide agricultural services to more than 70
farms annually and operate across over 3,000 hectares of land.







The parties also discussed preparations for the project’s second
phase, planned for 2027–2031, as well as potential new initiatives
aimed at addressing environmental challenges and supporting
sustainable rural development.


The cooperation reflects Uzbekistan’s broader efforts to
mitigate the social and environmental impacts of the Aral Sea
crisis while advancing green economic growth. Officials noted that
future collaboration will continue to focus on improving living
standards in rural communities, promoting efficient use of water
and land resources, and expanding the adoption of modern
agricultural practices.


"At the end of the meeting, the parties highly evaluated the
results achieved to date, the sustainable development of rural
areas, agreed to further expand joint projects aimed at sustainable
rural development, increasing employment, and the wide-scale
implementation of green economy principles." the ministry said in
the statement.