Mukhtar Babayev highlights Central Asia's growing environmental role

The ancient Silk Road city of Samarkand is hosting Eco Expo Central Asia 2026 and the 8th GEF Assembly, bringing together governments, international organizations, financial institutions and experts to advance cooperation on climate action, biodiversity, water security, land restoration and sustainable development.

Mukhtar Babayev, COP29 President and Representative of the President of the Republic of Azerbaijan on Climate Issues, wrote this on X.

According to him, Central Asia is becoming increasingly important on the global environmental agenda, especially on issues related to glaciers, mountain ecosystems, desertification, transboundary water cooperation and climate resilience.

He noted that this week's discussions come at an important time for maintaining momentum after COP29 and strengthening focus on implementation, financing and practical delivery across the climate and sustainable development agendas.

Babayev said he looks forward to productive exchanges and stronger partnerships throughout the week.