Mirziyoyev proposes World Climate Capitals Alliance at COP29

On November 12, President Shavkat Mirziyoyev of Uzbekistan delivered a speech at the World Leaders' Summit during the 29th session of the Conference of the Parties to the UN Climate Change Convention (COP29) in Baku, Azerbaijan. The summit brought together heads of states, government leaders, and representatives from over 80 countries, as well as prestigious international organizations and financial institutions.

At the outset of his speech, President Mirziyoyev extended his congratulations to Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev for successfully organizing the summit, highlighting Azerbaijan’s active role in promoting international cooperation to address climate challenges. He acknowledged that climate change has emerged as the most significant global threat today, contributing to the intensification of geopolitical tensions. He emphasized that issues like poverty, food and energy security, and the availability of drinking water and other resources are becoming increasingly urgent.

Mirziyoyev noted that Central Asia is acutely feeling the impact of climate change, which hinders efforts to improve the quality of life for its population and the implementation of national development strategies. He referred to the Paris Agreement’s core goal of limiting global temperature rise to 1.5–2 degrees Celsius in the 21st century, underscoring its importance for the region’s sustainable future.

In response to these challenges, Uzbekistan is carrying out large-scale reforms aimed at achieving carbon neutrality. By 2030, the country plans to reduce its greenhouse gas emissions by one-third, with a long-term commitment to reach carbon neutrality by 2050. Additionally, Uzbekistan aims for 40% of its energy to come from "green" sources. The country is developing electric vehicle production clusters, investing in "green" hydrogen, and building solar and wind energy hubs as part of its strategy. The government is also working to expand green spaces through the "Green Space" program.

Mirziyoyev shared that Uzbekistan is collaborating with neighboring countries to implement a regional climate strategy. As part of this, a multilateral agreement on "green" energy supply to Europe is set to be signed. 

In his address, President Mirziyoyev proposed several initiatives aimed at addressing the global climate crisis and supporting vulnerable nations. He suggested the creation of an international center for assessing the losses and damages caused by climate change. This center would facilitate the expansion of technical and financial support from developed countries, multilateral institutions, and conventions, helping developing nations better understand and manage the climate risks they face.

Mirziyoyev also highlighted the importance of developing unified approaches to reducing environmental pollution, ensuring sustainable biodiversity, and managing transboundary water resources. He proposed, under the auspices of the United Nations, the development of a declaration to strengthen the integrity and ecological safety of river ecosystems.

Another initiative included the establishment of a regional bank of genetic resources and the creation of an innovative UN agro-industry hub for landlocked countries, aimed at enhancing the climate resilience of crops. In Uzbekistan, this initiative would focus on developing more climate-resilient plant varieties.

Perhaps most notably, Mirziyoyev proposed the establishment of the World Climate Capitals Alliance, which would aim to foster cooperation among cities and megalopolises affected by climate change. The alliance would focus on the transfer of knowledge, best practices, and solutions for sustainable urban development. He suggested that the first forum of this alliance be held in Tashkent to discuss strategies for creating comfortable living conditions in cities facing climate challenges.

In conclusion, Mirziyoyev invited representatives of the COP29 countries to participate in a global festival of digital "green" initiatives, which will take place in Aralboyi on May 15 next year, in celebration of International Climate Day. He closed his speech by reiterating Uzbekistan's commitment to open dialogue and practical partnerships for sustainable development and long-term "green" prosperity.