The Ministry of Ecology, Environmental Protection, and Climate Change of the Republic of Uzbekistan held a meeting with representatives of Ishigaki Company Ltd., a manufacturer of industrial filtration and waste-drying equipment.

Issues of waste management and recycling, the use of advanced Japanese technologies, and the implementation of joint projects in the circular economy and environmental protection were discussed at the meeting. Representatives of Ishigaki Company Ltd. spoke about their activities and noted that the company is a leader in the production of equipment for filtration, water treatment, waste drying, and urban wastewater treatment plants.

The Japanese side expressed great interest in Uzbekistan’s economic growth, infrastructure development, environmental protection, and mining industry reforms, and its willingness to implement joint business projects in Uzbekistan and participate in initiatives aimed at improving the quality of people’s lives.

Minister of Ecology Aziz Abdukhakimov noted that Uzbekistan is working on waste management and the introduction of green technologies. Fourteen projects are underway in this area, including a $114 million program to dispose of medical waste. In addition, a network of Waste-to-Energy enterprises has been established, and a green tariff system has been implemented. Projects are being implemented with the European Union for the reclamation of uranium deposits and with ACWA Power for the disposal of hazardous waste, and initiatives are being developed with EPSE OY for the treatment of industrial wastewater.

Mr. Abdukhakimov stressed that issues of ecology and the rational use of natural resources, in the context of climate change and increased anthropogenic pressure, are a priority. Studying international experience, especially the introduction of Japanese environmental technologies, is of great importance. He proposed signing a Memorandum of Cooperation between the Agency for Waste Management and Development of Circular Economy and Ishigaki Company Ltd. It is planned to exchange specialists, conduct an environmental audit, establish a joint research program, and adapt Japanese technologies to Uzbekistan’s conditions.

The parties agreed to conduct preliminary studies and examinations. Based on their results, a pilot project will be launched.

The participants expressed confidence that this cooperation will become a significant step in promoting the circular economy, green technologies, and sustainable development in Uzbekistan.

Sh.Mamaturopova, UzA