On 7–11 September 2026, Dr. Saida Safaeva, Head of the Center for Sustainable Development, participated in Baku Climate Action Week 2026. In her remarks, she addressed climate resilience in the Caspian region, drawing on Uzbekistan’s experience in responding to the environmental and socio-economic consequences of the Aral Sea crisis.

Dr. Safaeva emphasised that declining water levels should be understood as a challenge with implications extending beyond ecosystems to public health, livelihoods and infrastructure. While recognising the differences between the Aral and Caspian seas, she highlighted the relevance of the Aral Sea experience for strengthening early action, shared monitoring and regional cooperation.

Particular attention was given to opportunities for cooperation between Uzbekistan, Kazakhstan and Azerbaijan. Referring to Sustainable Development Goal 17, “Partnerships for the Goals”, Dr. Safaeva underlined the importance of bringing together governments, researchers, international organisations, financial institutions and the private sector to connect environmental priorities with broader development objectives.

Her remarks also explored the relationship between environmental resilience and regional connectivity, including the Middle Corridor. She stressed that the Caspian Sea’s long-term sustainability matters for coastal communities and ecosystems, as well as for trade, resilient supply chains and the transport of materials supporting the green and digital transitions.