Tashkent, Uzbekistan (UzDaily.com) — The Eighth Forum on the Development of Analytical Centers of CAREC has commenced in Almaty, focusing on the theme “Climate Challenge: Thinking Beyond Borders for Collective Action.”

The event gathers over 120 representatives from regional analytical centers, CAREC member countries, universities, development organizations, and media. Participants have come together to collaboratively seek solutions for escalating climate issues through coordinated regional strategies.

The Need for Unified Efforts

In his welcoming address, Kabir Djurazoda, Director of the CAREC Institute, emphasized the need for immediate and coordinated climate actions. He referenced data from the World Meteorological Organization, highlighting the significant impact of extreme weather events on the economy, particularly within the CAREC region.

Key Presentations and Strategies

Yan Inmin, Vice President of the Asian Development Bank (ADB), underscored the forum’s importance for shaping regional policy. “The Asian Development Bank consistently supports the CAREC Institute, particularly in aligning its strategies with CAREC’s goals, including the CAREC-2030 Strategy,” Mr. Yan noted.

He stressed the need for unity in addressing the growing impacts of climate change, advocating for the exchange of experiences, challenges, and successes to ensure a sustainable, resilient, and prosperous future for the CAREC region. Mr. Yan also discussed ADB initiatives to address gaps in climate financing.

“In response to identified gaps in climate financing in these countries, we are actively advancing with the CAREC Climate and Sustainable Development Project Preparation Facility (CSPPF), supported by ADB, with contributions from various multilateral and bilateral sources,” he stated.

Asel Sarsenbayeva, Chairperson of the Board of the Institute of Economic Research and member of the Board of the Ministry of National Economy of Kazakhstan, highlighted the importance of regional cooperation for sustainable development. She shared Kazakhstan’s plans to achieve carbon neutrality by 2060, increase the use of renewable energy sources, and adhere to stringent environmental, social, and governance (ESG) standards.

Discussions and Technologies

Throughout the day, the forum served as a platform for discussing key issues among experts, thought leaders, and development partners. Discussions focused on the role of innovative technologies in mitigating and adapting to climate change, emphasizing the potential of rapid technological advancements and the urgent need to create a supportive regional ecosystem for climate solutions. Dialogues centered on the role of technological innovations in addressing climate change impacts and the necessity of regional support for such solutions.

The forum also drew attention to the CAREC Network’s Research Grants Program (CTTN), showcasing presentations of research that align with the forum’s climate agenda and highlighting the crucial role of research in advancing regional climate solutions.

Local and International Cooperation

Forum participants discussed successful examples of climate adaptation in various countries, stressing the importance of involvement from governments, local communities, and NGOs in developing effective climate policies.

Discussions also emphasized the significance of South-South cooperation for discovering and implementing sustainable methods.

Conclusion and Future Plans

At the end of the first day, a call was made to continue collaborative efforts on climate issues. “Today’s discussions have laid the foundation for future joint efforts,” noted Kabir Djurazoda, thanking participants for their contributions.

The forum will continue its work, focusing on improving strategies and strengthening partnerships, as well as encouraging active participation and collaboration in developing innovative solutions for the sustainable development of the CAREC region.