Uzbekistan, World Bank discuss strengthening cooperation in waste management

Valerie Hickey noted that the World Bank is participating for the first time in the conference dedicated to the conservation of migratory species and expressed her pleasure at visiting Samarkand.

She also highlighted the extensive work being carried out in Uzbekistan to restore endangered wildlife species.

Reforms in the waste management sector were also acknowledged during the meeting.

"In Uzbekistan, considerable attention is paid to waste management. This means our goals align. We are pleased to collaborate with Uzbekistan in the area of municipal solid waste handling and sorting, as well as in providing state support for entrepreneurs and workers in the field," said Valerie Hickey.

In turn, Aziz Abduhakimov discussed the objectives set for the industry in the country, specifically the efficient implementation of waste management systems, the introduction of the circular economy, as well as the development of the "zero waste" principle.

"Waste is now becoming a valuable resource for the economy. We aim to construct a 'green' society that benefits us in every aspect," the minister stated.

The meeting also explored a project for establishing 6 transboundary protected areas. This initiative is expected to significantly contribute to the development of ecotourism, as well as to the protection and conservation of rare animal species.

As a result of the negotiations, an agreement was reached on cooperation to attract leading companies to Uzbekistan in the waste sector, to bring in World Bank investments to the industry, and to provide grants.