On September 22, 2025, the 4th meeting of the Joint Coordination Committee was held within the framework of the international SATREPS-2020 project “Development of Innovative Climate Resilient Technologies for Monitoring and Controlling of Water Use Efficiency and Impact of Salinization on Crop Productivity and Livelihood in Aral Sea region”.
The project is being implemented by the Agency for Innovative Development of the Republic of Uzbekistan in cooperation with the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) and leading scientific centers of both countries. During the meeting, the results of joint research conducted by Japanese and Uzbek scientists in 2024–2025 were presented. The discussion focused on monitoring climate change, introducing new technologies for the rational use of water resources, increasing crop yields on saline soils, and applying advanced Japanese expertise in agricultural technologies.
Reports on achieved results and future prospects were presented by representatives of Kyoto, Kobe, and Mie Universities, as well as Uzbek researchers. The participants discussed new approaches to soil bioremediation, prospects for using plant genetic resources, and plans for further joint scientific work.
On behalf of the International innovation center for the Aral Sea region, Director Bakhitjan Khabibullayev delivered a welcoming address. He emphasized that the implementation of the project is important not only for the ecological restoration of the region but also for improving the living conditions of the local population, strengthening food security, and promoting sustainable socio-economic development.
Participants of the meeting noted that the project is becoming a platform for long-term international cooperation and the development of practical solutions to mitigate the consequences of climate change in the Aral Sea region. At the conclusion of the meeting, the parties agreed on work plans for 2026 and expressed readiness to further expand their partnership. [wds id="296"]