How can the Karakalpakstan region leverage its post-Aral Sea transformation—balancing environmental challenges with new economic opportunities?

This was the guiding question of the conference held at November 20, 2025 at the University of World Economy and Diplomacy (UWED), co-organized with the French Development Agency (AFD). The event marked the second joint initiative between the two institutions.

More than 200 participants attended, including students, researchers, NGOs, international organizations, French companies, and representatives of key Uzbek institutions.

The conference was honored by the presence and opening remarks of:

·  Mr. Sodyq Safoev, the First Deputy Chairman of the Senate of the Oliy Majlis and Rector of UWED

·  Mr. Walid Fouque, Ambassador of France to Uzbekistan

·  Mr. Olivier Grandvoinet, Director of AFD in Uzbekistan

The event opened with a screening of the documentary “Amu Darya, River to a Missing Sea,” highlighting the human dimension of the Aral Sea crisis.

A dynamic panel brought together specialists from science, economics, youth activism, and international cooperation:

·  Dr. Dilfuza Egamberdieva – Deputy Director of ISCAD, expert in soil microbiology and sustainable agriculture

·  Ms. Gulnara Joldosbaeva – Youth climate advocate and environmental activist

·  Mr. Davletiyar Djiemuratov – Expert in Artemia aquaculture and local economic development

·  Ms. Turayeva Suriya– Professor, Department of International Economics, UWED

·  Ms. Anne Chetaille – Project Manager, AFD Paris Headquarters

The discussion emphasized the need for integrated solutions across health, agriculture, biodiversity, climate resilience, and sustainable livelihoods.

AFD presented two major initiatives currently underway:

· 28,000 hectares of afforestation and agroforestry to restore degraded lands and strengthen ecosystem resilience

· Modernization of the Suenli irrigation scheme, in partnership with the Ministry of Water Resources, to improve water use efficiency and support climate-resilient agriculture

The conference highlighted the essential role of young researchers, innovators, and activists in shaping the future of the Aral Sea region through science-based action and policy engagement.

AFD and UWED expressed their appreciation for the strong collaboration between the institutions and extended thanks to all participants for contributing to a meaningful and forward-looking discussion.