Implementing the EU's policy direction in the Central Asia region, the Ministry of Agriculture is developing cooperation with Uzbekistan on forestry matters - Zeme un valsts

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Implementing the EU's policy direction in the Central Asia region, the Ministry of Agriculture is developing cooperation with Uzbekistan on forestry matters

Zemkopības ministrija | 07.07.2025

The Ministry of Agriculture has signed a memorandum of cooperation with the Forestry Agency of Uzbekistan's Ministry of Ecology, Environmental Protection and Climate Change. Its aim is to foster closer cooperation between Latvia and Uzbekistan in the field of forestry, as well as to ensure the sustainable and efficient use of forest resources.

Back in April this year, leaders of the European Union (EU) and the Central Asian states agreed at the EU–Central Asia summit to strengthen the strategic partnership between the two regions. Among other things, European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen affirmed the EU's commitment to strengthening cooperation with Central Asia, announcing an investment package of 12 billion (Global Gateway investment package) for transport, critical raw materials, digital infrastructure, water and energy projects in the Central Asia region. The Latvian–Uzbek memorandum of cooperation affirms the commitment to putting this EU–Central Asia partnership into practice through specific projects and practical action.

"Latvia is one of the most forest-rich countries in Europe, and our forestry sector is developed to a very high standard. This creates considerable potential for mutually beneficial cooperation. At the same time, it is also an excellent opportunity for Latvian businesses, researchers and industry experts to draw on the experience they have accumulated and adapt it to Uzbekistan's regional conditions," says Normunds Šmits, Parliamentary Secretary of the Ministry of Agriculture.

Cooperation will focus on developing sustainable forest management, taking into account the principles of good governance in both managed and protected forests. Measures will also be implemented to mitigate drought, soil erosion and desertification, in order to ensure the preservation of resilient forest ecosystems. Forest regeneration, afforestation and the rehabilitation of degraded areas will likewise be a priority for both sides.

In addition, close cooperation is envisaged in the transfer of technology and knowledge – in forest tree breeding and planting technologies, forest fire management, pest and disease control, and other areas related to the development of forestry.

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