On April 5, 2025, the Samarkand Climate Forum hosted the second regional consultation on preparations for the Regional Climate Summit scheduled for 2026 in Astana. The event was an important milestone in the process of harmonizing positions and strengthening regional cooperation among Central Asian countries.
The participants were welcomed by Minister of Ecology and Natural Resources of the Republic of Kazakhstan Yerlan Nysanbayev, Minister of Natural Resources, Ecology and Technical Supervision of the Kyrgyz Republic Meder Mashiev, Chairman of the Committee for Environmental Protection under the Government of the Republic of Tajikistan Bakhodur Sheralizoda, Deputy Director General of FAO, Regional Representative for Europe and Central Asia Viorel Gutu, as well as They were joined by Mongolia's Minister of Environment and Climate Change Saldan Odontuya., who expressed support for strengthening coordination between the countries of the region.
The discussion was held in a lively and constructive atmosphere. Representatives of government agencies, international organizations (ISCD, GIZ, FAO, EBRD, ADB, IWMI), and expert community shared their opinions.
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One of the key proposals was the formation of a working group that would include representatives of Central Asian countries and Mongolia. This group will be engaged in preparations for the summit, including the development of a common climate agenda, clarification of priorities and synchronization of actions within the framework of international commitments.
Mergen Kepbanov, Director of the CAREC Project Office in Turkmenistan, emphasized that such a meeting is not just a technical stage of preparation - it is an important step confirming the readiness of the countries of the region for a joint future. “These consultations help to bring positions closer and strengthen trust between the countries of the region. We see that there is a common understanding of priorities and a willingness to work together, which creates the basis for confidence that the 2026 climate summit will be an important stage in developing new solutions at the regional level” , he said.
The meeting concluded with the formulation of steps for further interaction. All participants expressed their readiness to continue the dialog based on the common aspiration for sustainable development and climate resilience in the region.
Additional information:
Mergen Kepbanov: Director of CAREC Project Office in Turkmenistan, turkmenistan@carececo.org