Tashkent, 18 December 2025 — A high-level delegation of the ECO Science Foundation (ECOSF) held a productive meeting with the Ministry of Agricultural Resources of the Republic of Uzbekistan to discuss opportunities for strengthening cooperation in agricultural science, technology, and innovation.

The meeting was hosted by Mr. Nuriddin Kushnazarov, Advisor to the Minister on International Cooperation, and focused on Uzbekistan’s ongoing agricultural reforms and the growing role of science and innovation in advancing sustainable agricultural development.

During the discussions, Advisor to the Ministry highlighted the comprehensive transformation of Uzbekistan’s agricultural sector, emphasizing the importance of scientific research, innovation, and modern technologies in addressing challenges related to climate change, soil degradation, water scarcity, and food security. Dr. Dilfuza Egamberdieva, Deputy Director, International Center for Strategic Development and Research in Food and Agriculture (ISCAD), Ministry of Agriculture, Uzbekistan also participated in the meeting.

Prof. Dr. Seyed Komail Tayebi introduced the mission and regional role of ECOSF, underscoring the Foundation’s mandate to promote scientific cooperation and joint research initiatives among ECO Member States. Prof. Tayebi further proposed organizing a joint conference in collaboration with Ministry of Agricultural Resources and Tashkent State Agrarian University focused on Climate Change. Mr. Kushnazarov welcomed the proposal and recommended adjusting the theme to place a stronger focus on the impacts of climate change and issues related to food security.

Dr. Ghulam Muhammad Memon, Executive Director reiterated ECOSF’s readiness to collaborate closely with Uzbekistan’s agricultural research institutions. He emphasized the relevance of regional collaboration in advancing sustainable agriculture and rural development.

Mr. Khalil Raza briefed the Ministry on ECOSF’s ongoing and planned initiatives in areas relevant to agriculture, including climate resilience, innovation-driven development, and knowledge exchange, and highlighted opportunities for Uzbek research institutions to participate more actively in ECOSF’s regional platforms.