In Stockholm, a meeting was held between Javlon Vakhabov, Director of the International Institute for Central Asia (IICA), and Dr. Roman Vakulchuk, Head of the Climate and Energy Research Group at the Norwegian Institute of International Affairs (NUPI).

The parties discussed prospects for strengthening scientific and expert cooperation in the region’s sustainable development, energy transition, and climate policy.

Dr. Vakulchuk emphasized that Central Asia holds significant reserves of resources such as chromium, manganese, lead, and zinc, key components for producing solar panels, wind turbines, and batteries. He noted that the region could become an essential link in the global strategy to ensure sustainable supplies of these materials, especially amid rising demand driven by the worldwide energy transition.

Mr. Vakhabov, in turn, emphasized the importance of attracting investments into infrastructure projects to develop the green economy and reduce the carbon footprint. The parties expressed interest in further developing cooperation between IICA and NUPI, including conducting joint research, holding expert seminars, and exchanging analytical materials.

It was noted that such collaboration could contribute to shaping effective strategies for sustainable development and the energy transition in Central Asia.

G. Khonnazarov, UzA