From 31 May to 6 June 2026, Samarkand will host the 8th Assembly of the Global Environment Facility (GEF) — one of the most significant international events in environmental protection and climate governance. Hosting the Assembly underscores Uzbekistan’s growing role in the global environmental framework.
The Assembly will bring together representatives from more than 180 countries, international organizations, financial institutions, academia, and civil society. Key discussions will focus on climate change, biodiversity conservation, land degradation, sustainable water management, and the transition to a green economy.
Strengthening International Standing
For Uzbekistan, hosting the Assembly represents a strategic opportunity to reinforce its position as an active contributor to global environmental policy. In recent years, the country has advanced major initiatives aimed at restoring the Aral Sea region ecosystem, afforesting the dried seabed, expanding renewable energy, and enhancing climate adaptation.
The forum will provide an international platform to showcase these achievements and broaden strategic partnerships.
Expanding Access to Climate Finance
The Global Environment Facility is one of the world’s leading environmental funding mechanisms. Holding the Assembly in Samarkand creates favorable conditions for mobilizing grants and launching new investment initiatives.
This will support national projects in sustainable agriculture, water resource management, biodiversity conservation, and climate resilience.
Advancing Regional Cooperation
The Assembly is expected to facilitate bilateral meetings and agreements on transboundary environmental challenges. For Central Asia, where water, climate, and ecosystem issues transcend borders, coordinated regional action is essential.
In this context, the 8th GEF Assembly in Samarkand is not merely a diplomatic event, but a strategic opportunity for Uzbekistan to strengthen its green agenda, attract investment, and accelerate sustainable development priorities.
📌 Source: National Committee on Ecology and Climate Change of the Republic of Uzbekistan
