NEW YORK: Saida Mirziyoyeva, the eldest daughter of Uzbek President Shavkat Mirziyoev, addressed the UN Conference on Water Issues in New York, raising critical issues concerning the Aral Sea crisis. The Governments of the Republic of Tajikistan, the Kingdom of the Netherlands, and all UN entities co-hosted the conference.
Mirziyoyeva began by acknowledging the United Nations‘ adoption of the 17 Sustainable Development Goals in 2015 to build a better future for everyone. Uzbekistan remains committed to achieving these goals and is taking initiatives to revitalize the Aral Sea region while preserving water and ecosystems.
In her address, Mrs. Mirziyoyeva highlighted the devastating effects of the desiccation of the Aral Sea, calling it “the largest environmental catastrophe of our time.” She reminded the audience that the crisis of the Aral Sea is a stark reminder of the consequences of human environmental neglect. However, she expressed optimism that the region could still become a symbol of hope and renewal.
Mirziyoyeva shared her country’s efforts in addressing the negative impacts of the Aral Sea’s desiccation. She mentioned Uzbekistan’s Multi-Partner Human Security Trust Fund for the Aral Sea region, which has funded over $14 million in projects.
Uzbekistan set ambitious goal to turn Aral Sea into garden
She stated that Uzbekistan had set an ambitious goal to turn the dried-up floor of the Aral Sea into a garden, and almost one and a half million hectares are already covered with greenery. The country is working tirelessly on this task because they understand the value of time in fighting environmental catastrophes.
Mirziyoyeva emphasized the importance of supporting women in the Aral Sea region, who are most vulnerable to environmental, economic, or political disturbance. Uzbekistan has invested not only in experts from various relevant fields but also in the creative powers of artists and designers.
She announced the launch of the Aral Cultural Summit, which will focus on preserving biocultural and linguistic diversity. The summit will unite artists with local farmers, creating sustainable ties in the field of design for cultivating new plants and designing a strategic plan for the next ten years.
Mirziyoyeva invited everyone to embrace the sea of change on the horizon and support Uzbekistan’s efforts to address the Aral Sea crisis.
