Within the framework of the International Climate Forum in the UAE, the Minister of Ecology, Environmental Protection, and Climate Change of the Republic of Uzbekistan, Aziz Abdukhakimov, met with Dr. Tarifa Al-Zaabi, the Director-General of the International Center for Biosaline Agriculture (ICBA) in the UAE.

Dr. Tarifa Al-Zaabi has extensive experience in developing services and strategies in higher education institutions through management, innovation implementation, research, and capacity building. She actively participates in a range of international events aimed at transforming the agrotechnological sector and enhancing food security. Since 2020, she has been the Director-General of the ICBA.

During the meeting, which took place at the "Uzbekistan" pavilion at the Dubai Expo exhibition, special attention was given to further strengthening mutual cooperation.

"The Government of Uzbekistan, under the leadership of President Shavkat Mirziyoyev, has prioritized climate issues. We attach great importance to finding scientific, innovative, and 'green' solutions to environmental problems. The establishment of the International Innovation Center for the Aral Sea region is a testament to our commitment," said Aziz Abdukhakimov. "Cooperation with the International Center for Biosaline Agriculture in the UAE provides us with an opportunity to exchange experiences, effectively utilize innovative methods to address environmental issues, and jointly implement various prospective projects," added the minister.

During the session, the creation of a GenBank (a DNA and RNA database) at the International Innovation Center for the Aral Sea region under the Ministry of Ecology, Environmental Protection, and Climate Change of the Republic of Uzbekistan was discussed. This initiative aims to conduct scientific research on the development of drought-resistant and water crisis-tolerant agricultural crops that can be grown in the arid climate of Uzbekistan and the Aral Sea region. The training program for farmers in the Aral Sea region also discussed launching a joint experimental project to establish a greenhouse for water resource management.

Attention was also given to effective cooperation in conducting training for the staff of the International Innovation Center for the Aral Sea region, land preservation and restoration, combating desertification, and supporting scientific research.

At the end of the meeting, Aziz Abdukhakimov invited Tarifa Al-Zaabi to Uzbekistan to discuss the next stages of cooperation and familiarize herself with strategic facilities.