Detailed programme

According to the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP), more than 50 per cent of glaciers in Central Asia could disappear by 2050, threatening water and food security for more than 64 million people in the region.  Mountain and glacier freshwater are key for food security and nutrition, especially in rural mountain communities, among the most food insecure. Climate change further exacerbates this vulnerability: changes in glacier and snow melt rates affect the timing and volume of runoff, reducing water availability for agriculture in both mountains and downstream lowlands. 

In addition, increasing natural disasters such as floods, landslides and droughts are having a serious impact on mountain ecosystems and hampering the development of vulnerable mountain communities. The impacts of a changing climate on human mobility are adversely affecting livelihoods that are reliant on the ecosystem services provided by mountains.  Sustainable agriculture, water management and agri-food systems can help adapt to the climate crisis and increase livelihood resilience.

This forum will discuss the main water and climate adaptation strategies in agriculture and agrifood systems, best practices and innovations in Central Asia. It will examine how to build synergies and alliances between water, land and climate agendas in agri-food systems transformation and how to explore opportunities to integrate glacier preservation into broader efforts to address global water and food security challenges. Additionally, it will explore the role of youth-led initiatives and the integration of local and traditional knowledge systems with science take to guide policies for sustainable mountain development.

CO-ORGANIZERS

Food and Agricultural Organization (FAO)

World Food Programme (WFP)

HIGH LEVEL PANEL (9:00 -10:00)

Promoting Resilience in Mountain and Glacier Ecosystems

Zhimin Wu, Director, Forestry Division, FAO

Adham Musallam, WFP Representative in Tajikistan

H.E. Yerlan Nyssanbayev, Minister for Ecology and Natural Resources and GEF Political Focal Point, Kazakhstan

H.E. Meder Mashiev, Minister of Natural Resources, Ecology and Technical Supervision of the Kyrgyz Republic

H.E. Khusrav Noziri, Ambassador, Assistant Director-General of Islamic Organization for Food Security  

Anvari Nigina, Deputy Minister of Agriculture of the Republic of Tajikistan

Isfandiyor Shukurzoda, First Deputy Chairman of the Committee of Environmental Protection under the Government of the Republic of Tajikistan

Latifzoda Hotamsho Latif, First Deputy Chairman of the Committee of Emergency Situations and Civil Defense under the Government of the Republic

Jakhongir Talipov, Head of International Department, Ministry of Natural Resources of the Republic of Uzbekistan

Moderator: Aghasi Harutyunyan, FAO Representative a.i. in the Republic of Tajikistan

PANEL (10:00-11:30)

Approach to Mountains and Glaciers for Water, Food Security and Livelihoods

Sara Manuelli, Forestry Officer, FAO/Mountain Partnership

Carolina Rizzi Starr, Agricultural Officer, FAO Regional Office for Europe and Central Asia

Oleg Guchgeldiev, FAO Representative in Kyrgyzstan, and Matraim Yusupov, Expert on Upscaling Water Saving Technologies in Kyrgyzstan, FAO Kyrgyzstan

Ilhom Safarov, Programme Policy Officer, WFP

Albert Orwa, WFP Tajikistan

Moderator: Aghasi Harutyunyan, FAO Representative a.i. in the Republic of Tajikistan

ROUND TABLE DISCUSSION (11:30-12:30)

Partnership for Healthy Mountains: Mobilizing collaboration and cooperation for Climate Resilience in Mountain and Glacier Ecosystems

H.E. Bakyt Dzhusupov, Ambassador, Co-ordinator of OSCE Economic and Environmental Activities, Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe (OSCE)

Abou Amani, Director of the Water Sciences Division and Secretary of the Intergovernmental Hydrological Programme, UNESCO

Sulagna Mishra, Scientific Officer, Services / Hydrology, Water and Cryosphere:  Advancing tools and data for glaciers preservation, WMO

Martina Purwins, Regional Climate Resilience Advisor, Welt Hunger Hilfe (WHH)

Shakeb Nabi, Country Director for Nepal, WHH

Tashi Lhazom, Mountain Youth and IYGP champion for youth, Nepal

Moderator: Sara Manuelli, Mountain Partnership

KEY MESSAGES AND CLOSING REMARKS (12:30-13:00)

Nigina Anvari, Deputy Minister of Agriculture of the Republic of Tajikistan

Isfandiyor Shukurzoda, First Deputy Chairman of the Committee of Environmental Protection under the Government of the Republic of Tajikistan

Zhimin Wu, Director, Forestry Division, FAO

Adham Musallam, WFP Representative in Tajikistan

LUNCH (13:00-14:00)

RAPPORTEUR:

Zhimin Wu, Director, Forestry Division, FAO 

CONTACT PERSONS:

Khurshed Kholov, khurshed.kholov@fao.org

Aghasi Harutyunyan, aghasi.harutyunyan@fao.org

Abdujabbor Khakimov, abdujabbor.khakimov@fao.org

Glaciers are crucial for regulating the global climate and providing freshwater that is essential for billions of people. At the same time, glacial melting has multiple impacts on children. Rapid glacial melt causes floods, overwhelming water systems and sanitation infrastructure. Over time, shrinking glaciers lead to severe water shortages, fueling competition for resources. Contaminated and inconsistent water sources heighten the risk of waterborne diseases that disproportionately affect children.

The Children and Youth Glacier Preservation Forum will serve as an essential platform for young people to engage with the critical issue of glacier preservation. The Forum aims to bring together youth from Tajikistan and beyond, using satellite technology to connect participants from across the globe and provide them with the opportunity to share their ideas and solutions for safeguarding glaciers.

By focusing on the next generation, the objective of this Forum will be to advocate for integrating child-centered strategies into national climate and disaster risk reduction (DRR) policies. It will emphasize the importance of empowering children to meaningfully participate in climate dialogue and decision-making processes.  The Forum will call for increased climate financing for children, inspiring them to take responsibility and play a leading role in shaping a sustainable future.

CO-ORGANIZERS

United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF)

Committee for Environmental Protection under the Government of the Republic of Tajikistan

OPENING SESSION I (09:00-09:20)

Welcome remarks and setting up context

Catherine Russell, Executive Director of UNICEF

H.E. Ziyozoda Sulaimon, Deputy Prime Minister of the Government of the Republic of Tajikistan

Mafalda Duarte, Executive Director of Green Climate Fund

Anis Toshiro, President of the Youth for Water and Climate Network

Children Live Performance: Voices of Melting Glaciers

SESSION II (09:30-09:40)

Multi-Ministerial Pledge on Children & Youth Engagement in Glacier Preservation and Climate Action

SESSION III (09:40-10:00)

Climate Action for the Next Generation: Crafting Child-Sensitive NDC 3.0

Orzu Odinaev, Expert on Climate and DRR, Visual presentation format

SESSION IV (10:00-10:45)

Youth Action for Climate and Glacier Preservation

Susmita Mishra, Echoes from the Unheard Glaciers: Youth Voices from the Roof of the World, Nepal 

Yuqing Luo, Machine Learning-Based Chronostratigraphy of Tibetan Plateau Ice Cores

Shukurgeldi Myradov, Melting Ice, Rising Voices: Lessons from Austria and Beyond and How Young People Safeguard Glaciers and Water Futures
Namita Paudel, Spatial-Distribution Patterns and Environmental Drivers of Microbial Communities in the Trans-Himalayan Gandaki River

Mahmudov Sharif, Youth Engagement in Climate and Water Initiatives: Perspectives from Tajikistan

SESSION V (10:45-11:45)

Table Discussion Format

1.      Climate-Resilient Cities and Villages: What Role Do Young People Play in Urban & Rural Adaptation?

2.      Climate Education and Green skills for the Future: What Skills Do We Need to Tackle Climate Change?

3.      Green Jobs, Green Futures: What Pathways are Open for Youth in the Green Economy?

4.      Climate Action from the Ground Up: How Can Children and Youth Push for Policy Change?

5.      Financing the Future: How Can We Make Climate Financing Work for Children?

6.      Protecting the planet: How Can Technology and Innovation Help in climate adaptation

7.      Youth & Green Entrepreneurship: Creating Sustainable Solutions for Glacier and Climate Preservation

8.      From Awareness to Action: How Can We Mobilize Communities to Protect Glaciers?

9.      Media Matters: How Can Youth Use Media to Influence Climate Action?

10.  Youth in Climate Science: How Can Research Drive Real-World Change?

RAPPORTEUR:

Anis Tohirov, President of the Youth for Water and Climate Network

CONTACT PERSONS

Eri Dwivedi, UNICEF, edwivedi@unicef.org

Usnoro Dodikhudoeva, UNICEF, udodikhudoeva@unicef.org

Farukh Kosimov, UNICEF, fkasimov@unicef.org

Zebuniso Muminzoda, tajikistan@carececo.org

Central Asia is a region where glaciers and the cryosphere play a crucial role in ensuring water resources, maintaining ecosystem balance, and regulating climate processes. However, rapid global climate changes are significantly impacting these fragile natural systems, creating new challenges for the management of water and natural resources. The region encompasses some of the world's largest mountain systems—Tian Shan, Pamir, Hindukush, and Altay—home to numerous glaciers. These glaciers serve as the primary sources for the major rivers of the region, including the Amu Darya, Syr Darya, Zarafshon, Yaksart, and others, thereby playing a key role in water supply, agriculture, and sustainable development in Central Asian countries.

The Regional Forum on Glaciers and the Cryosphere in Central Asia serves as a significant platform for bringing together leading scientists, experts, government representatives, and international organizations. The primary objective of the Forum is to conduct a comprehensive analysis of glacier conditions, monitor changes in the cryosphere, and develop adaptation strategies in response to evolving climate conditions.

This forum facilitates the exchange of advanced knowledge, scientific research, and best practices in the conservation and sustainable use of natural resources. It also aims to strengthen intergovernmental cooperation in the sustainable management of glaciers and water resources.  Discussions, expert assessments, and recommendations formulated during the Forum will enable Central Asian countries to develop comprehensive approaches and strategic solutions for effective cryosphere management. This, in turn, will ensure the long-term sustainability of ecosystems, water availability, and economic development in the face of a changing climate.

CO-ORGANIZERS

Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit (GIZ)

Swiss Agency for Development and Cooperation (SDC)

Hydromet of Central Asian countries

OPENING SESSION (09:30-10:30)

H.E. Sulaimon Ziyozoda, Deputy Prime Minister of the Government of the Republic of Tajikistan

H.E. Bakhodur Sheralizoda, Chairman of the Committee for Environmental Protection under the Government of the Republic of Tajikistan

Rustam Latifzoda, Representative of the Parliament of the Republic of Tajikistan

Abdullo Kurbonzoda, Director of the Agency for Hydrometeorology under the Committee for Environmental Protection under the Government of the Republic of Tajikistan

York Schuegraf, Deputy Head of Mission, German Embassy in Tajikistan

Lisa Gampp, Swiss Agency for Development and Cooperation

Mathias Ulrich, German Environment Agency

Petteri Taalas, Director of the Institute of Meteorology of Finland

Celeste Saulo, Secretary-General, World Meteorological Organization (WMO)

Lidia Brito, Assistant Director-General for Natural Sciences, UNESCO

Victor Lutenco, Head of the International Organization for Migration Office in Tajikistan

COFFEE BREAK & GROUP PHOTO (10:30 – 11:00)

SESSIONS 1 & 2 (11:00 – 12:20)

LUNCH BREAK (12:20 – 13:20)

SESSIONS 3 & 4 (13:20 – 14:40)

DISCUSSION (14:40 – 15:00)

General discussion acceptance of the final document

Moderator: Jamila Baidulloeva, Deputy Director, Agency for Hydrometeorology under the Committee for Environmental Protection under the Government of the Republic of Tajikistan

COFFEE BREAK (15:00)

RAPPORTEUR:

Caroline Milow, GIZ Project Manager - Green Central Asia II, Climate sensitive water resources management in Central Asia

CONTACT PERSONS:

Umed Komilov, umed.komilov@giz.de

Mehroj Rajabov, mehrojiddin.rajabov@gmail.com

In December 2022, the UN General Assembly declared 2025 as the International Year of Glaciers’ Preservation (IYGP 2025) and 21 March as the annual World Day for Glaciers, following the initiative of the Republic of Tajikistan under resolution A/RES/77/158. The resolution invited UNESCO and WMO to facilitate the implementation of the resolution by organizing activities and developing proposals to support Member States. Building on the momentum of the International Year of Glaciers’ Preservation 2025, and at the initiative of Tajikistan and France, on August 13, 2024, the United Nations General Assembly adopted Resolution 78/321, declaring 2025-2034 as the Decade of Action for Cryospheric Sciences. This resolution calls for accelerated efforts to address challenges associated with melting glaciers and changes to the cryosphere through scientific research, monitoring, policy, and advocacy.

The High-Level International Conference on Glaciers’ Preservation provides a unique opportunity to discuss the way forward for the Decade of Action for Cryospheric Sciences 2025-2034. The outcomes of the brainstorming session held in Paris will be presented and discussed during this forum, linking the objectives of the year to the Decade, and the outlook to the future. The Forum aims to raise global awareness about the critical role of glaciers, snow, and ice in the climate system and hydrological cycle, echoing the IYGP 2025's focus on advocacy, policy change, and sustainable measures for glacier preservation.

CO-ORGANIZERS

United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO)

Government of Tajikistan

Government of France 

HIGH-LEVEL OPENING SESSION (14:00-14:30)

Moderator: Sino Tahirzoda, Director of the National Centre for Implementation of the Paris Agreement under the Committee for Environmental Protection under the Government of the Republic of Tajikistan

OPENING REMARKS

H.E. Elsa Pignol, The Ambassador of France to Tajikistan

Lidia Brito, Assistant Director-General for Natural Sciences, UNESCO

Loiq Rahmonzoda, Deputy Chairman of the Committee for Environmental Protection under the Government of the Republic of Tajikistan

KEYNOTE SPEAKER

John Pomeroy, Professor, UNESCO Co-Chair for the International Year of Glaciers’ Preservation 2025 and member of the International Advisory Board for IYGP 2025

PANEL I (14:30 – 15:30)

Status of Cryospheric Science and Monitoring, Education and Capacity Building & Future Outlook

Izabella Koziell, Deputy Director General, ICIMOD

Sulagna Mishra, Scientific Officer in the Hydrology, Water and Cryosphere, WMO

Bolot Moldobekov, Co-Director, Central-Asian Institute for applied Geosciences (CAIAG)

Yuliya Vystavna, Research scientist at the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA)

Shakil Ahmad Romshoo, Principal Investigator, Centre of Excellence for Glacial Studies in the Western Himalaya

Elena Osipova, Programme Specialist, UNESCO

Moderator: Ruth Nguma, Associate Programme Specialist, UNESCO

COFFEE BREAK & GROUP PHOTO (15:30 – 15:50)

PANEL II: (15:50 – 16:35)

Socio-Economic Impacts and Resilience Building

Dipesh Chapagain, Senior Research Associate, Global Mountain Safeguard Research (GLOMOS)

Sabih Ud Din, Cryosphere Specialist, National Institute of Disaster Management, Pakistan

Evan Miles, Academic Associate, University of Zurich

Shattyk Tastemirova, Head of Adaptation to Climate Change Unit, Ministry of Ecology, Geology and Natural Resources of the Republic of Kazakhstan

Moderator: Elena Osipova, Programme Specialist, UNESCO

PANEL III: (16:35 – 17:20)

Policy, Advocacy, Campaign, and Financing

Pam Pearson, Director, International Cryosphere Climate Initiative (ICCI)

Yasmin Siddiqi, Director, Agriculture, Food, Nature, and Rural Development, ADB

Bapon Fakhruddin, Lead Climate & Hydrology Specialist, Green Climate Fund (GCF)

Sara Manuelli, Mountain Partnership Secretariat at FAO

Ansgar Fellendorf, Climate change and mountain specialist, Biodiversity, People and Landscapes Unit, Ecosystems Division, UNEP

Moderator: Abou Amani, Director, Water Sciences Division and Secretary of the Intergovernmental Hydrological Programme (IHP), UNESCO

NEXT STEPS & CLOSING REMARKS (17:20 – 17:30)

RAPPORTEUR:

Ruth Katui Nguma, Associate Programme Specialist, UNESCO

CONTACT PERSONS:

Elena Osipova, e.osipova@unesco.org

Ruth Nguma, rk.nguma@unesco.org

The countries of Central Asia rely on cryospheric components such as glaciers, snow, and permafrost for water resources, and therefore, the mountain systems of the Tien Shan and Pamir constitute the water reservoirs for the entire region. Unchecked glacier melting and continued retreat could lead to an increased frequency of natural disasters such as floods and landslides, followed by prolonged droughts that threaten livelihoods and economic stability. Therefore, immediate and coordinated actions are required to develop strategies that integrate glacier preservation into broader climate adaptation frameworks.

This forum promotes glacier preservation through water cooperation across borders, sectors, and generations by bringing stakeholders together to raise their different viewpoints and proactively co-create solutions that build resilient societies – government agencies (Environmental Ministries), academia, women and youth, the private and finance sectors.

The Forum will consist of two sessions.  The first session will convene high-level policymakers, particularly Ministers of Environment Protection, to discuss national strategies and policies for glacier preservation, climate adaptation, and water cooperation. The second session will focus on networking and partnerships to bridge conservation efforts with community engagement, particularly involving youth, women, academic society, and private sector.

CO-ORGANIZERS

Committee for Environmental Protection under the Government of the Republic of Tajikistan (CEP)

Regional Environmental Centre for Central Asia (CAREC)

REGISTRATION (13:30 – 14:00)

OPENING SESSION (14:00 – 14:25)

Moderator: Stefan Uhlenbrook, Director Hydrology, Water and Cryosphere program, WMO 

OPENING REMARKS

H.E. Bahodur Sheralizoda, Chairman of the Committee for Environmental Protection under the Government of the Republic of Tajikistan 

Zafar Makhmudov, Executive Director of CAREC

KEYNOTE SPEAKERS

Celeste Saulo, Secretary- General, World Meteorological Organization (WMO)

Grethel Aguilar, Director- General, International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN)

SESSION 1 (14:25 – 15:00)

Ministerial Dialogue on Climate Resilience, Glacier Preservation, and Water Cooperation

H.E. Yerlan Nyssanbayev, Minister of Ecology and Natural Resources of the Republic of Kazakhstan

H.E. Meder Mashiev, Minister of Natural Resources, Ecology, and Technical Supervision of the Kyrgyz Republic

H.E. Bahodur Sheralizoda, Chairman of the Committee for Environmental Protection under the Government of the Republic of Tajikistan

H.E. Charygeldi Babanyyazov, Minister of Environmental Protection of Turkmenistan

H.E. Aziz Abdukhakimov, Minister of Ecology, Environmental Protection, and Climate Change of the Republic of Uzbekistan

Yasmin Siddiqi, Director of Agriculture, Food, Nature and Rural Development sector, Asian Development Bank

GROUP PHOTO & COFFEE BREAK (15:00 – 15:30)

SESSION 2 (15:30 – 17:30)

Strengthening stakeholders’ partnerships for Glaciers Preservation, Climate Adaptation, and Community Engagement in Regional Water Cooperation

Moderator: Barbara Janusz- Pawletta, Head of Regional Representative International Water Management Institute (IWMI) Office for Central Asia

OPENING STATEMENTS

Batyr Mamedov, Executive Director of CAREC

H.E. Bakyt Dzhusupov, Ambassador, Coordinator of Economic and Environmental Activities, OSCE

PRESENTATIONS

Brief presentation of the Blue Peace Central Asia (BPCA)

Barbara Janusz-Pawletta, Head of Regional Representative International Water Management Institute (IWMI) Office for Central Asia

The Role of Business in Water Cooperation

Zarina Sultonova, Public Affairs and Communications Officer, the Coca-Cola Foundation 

The Regional Strategy on Climate Change Adaptation in Central Asia

Vladimir Grebnev, Regional Climate Change Specialist, CAREC

INTERACTIVE BUS STOP SESSION

Facilitated by: Women in Water Management Network

Patrizia Albrecht, OSCE Youth Network

Shohida Tulieva, OSCE Youth Network

Irina Yugay, CAREC, Academic Network

Marhabo Yodalieva, IWMI

CLOSING REMARKS

Summary of key messages and follow-up actions by Rapporteur

RAPPORTEUR

Nilay Dogulu, Consultant, Hydrology, Water Resources and Cryosphere Division- Services Department, WMO

CONTACT PERSONS

Zebuniso Muminzoda, Country Director in Tajikistan, tajikistan@carececo.org

Irina Yugay, Water Initiative Support Programme Manager a.i., wisspecialist@carececo.org

Glaciers play a crucial role in sustaining water, food, energy and ecosystem security in Central Asia. However, accelerating glacial retreat due to climate change threatens long-term water availability, impacting agricultural productivity, energy generation, and ecosystem stability. Given the transboundary nature of major glacier-fed rivers such as the Amu Darya and Syr Darya, enhanced cooperation among the countries, sectors, policymakers and researchers is essential to address the interconnected challenges of water availability, food security, energy sustainability, and ecological preservation and to ensure sustainable resource management and climate resilience. Ongoing efforts in science, diplomacy, and regional cooperation provide valuable opportunities to enhance resilience. The Water-Energy-Food-Ecosystems (WEFE) Nexus offers a powerful integrative framework to strengthen collaboration across sectors and borders. 

Building on these insights, this high-level Regional Forum will bring together policymakers, practitioners, and researchers to jointly explore actionable strategies and innovative solutions for transboundary cooperation and climate adaptation in glacier-dependent basins.  This forum will serve as a platform for advancing regional science-policy dialogue, policy alignment, cross-sectoral engagement and innovative solutions to enhance climate resilience and sustainable development across Central Asia’s glacier-dependent river basins. Stakeholders will share best practices, explore policy and investment opportunities, enable science-policy dialogue to develop effective adaptation strategies for glacier-dependent basins.

CO-ORGANIZERS

Interstate Commission for Water Coordination (ICWC)

Swiss Agency for Development and Cooperation (SDC) - CROMO-Adapt, Blue Peace

Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD)

International Water Management Institute (IWMI)

World Bank – The Central Asia Water and Energy Program (CAWEP)

German Agency for International Cooperation (GIZ) Green Central Asia

United Nations Economic Commission for Europe (UNECE)

United Nations Centre for Preventive Diplomacy (UNRCCA)

REGISTRATION (08:30-9:00)

OPENING SESSION (09:00-11:00)

High-level Opening Statements and Scene Setting:

Water, Food, Energy, and Environmental Security in Central Asia: Challenges and Opportunities

H.E. Daler Shofakir Juma, Minister of Energy and Water Resources, Republic of Tajikistan

H.E. Nurjan Nurjigitov, Minister of Water Resources and Irrigation, Republic of Kazakhstan

H.E. Bakyt Torobaev, Minister of Water Resources, Agriculture and Processing Industry, Kyrgyz Republic

H.E. Durdi Gendjiyev, Chairman of the State Committee for Water Management, Turkmenistan

H.E. Shavkat Khamraev, Minister of Water Resources, Republic of Uzbekistan

Kaha Imnadze, Special Representative of the Secretary-General for Central Asia, UNRCCA

H.E. Christian Frutiger, Ambassador, Assistant Director General, Head of Thematic Cooperation, SDC

Askhat Orazbai, Chairman, Executive Committee of the International Fund for Saving the Aral Sea

Mark Smith, Director General, IWMI

Marco Kainer, Director of the Environmental Division of the UNECE

Natalia Alonso Cano, Chief of the Regional Office for Europe and Central Asia, UNDRR

Caroline Milow, GIZ Programme Manager at the Green Central Asia Project

Moderator: Dinara Ziganshina, Scientific Information Centre of the Interstate Commission for Water Coordination of Central Asia (SIC ICWC)

LAUNCH EVENT

Launch of Blue Peace Central Asia 2.0 in Tajikistan: 

The signing ceremony of the MoU between Tajikistan and Switzerland

GROUP PHOTO & BREAK (11:00-11:30)

SESSION I: (11:30 – 12:40)

Strengthening Transboundary Governance and Policy Coordination

Serik Bekmaganbetov, Deputy Chair of EC IFAS

Alexander Belokurov, Environmental Affairs Officer, UNECE

Charity Watson, Advisor on Climate, Peace and Security for the UN Assistance Mission in Afghanistan

Sergey Vinogradov, International Expert of UNRCCA (online)

Moderator: Philipp Saprykin, Deputy Head, UNRCCA

LUNCH BREAK (13:00 – 14:00)

SESSION 2: (14:00 – 15:30)

Science-Policy Interface for WEFE Nexus

Tomas Saks, Senior researcher, University of Fribourg, Switzerland

Joel Fiddes, SLF Researcher/ Mountainfutures GmbH

Zulfiya Yarullina, Senior Expert, SIC ICWC  

Dave Gochis, Airborne Snow Observatories (CAWEP/World Bank) 

Zafar Gafurov and Iskandar Abdullaev, IWMI

Sara Marjani Zadeh, FAO Sub-Regional Office for Central Asia

Mark Mulligan, King’s College London

Elena Osipova, UNESCO Almaty Regional Office

Moderator: Iskandar Abdullaev, IWMI

BREAK (15:30 – 15:50)

SESSION 3: (15:50 – 17:00)

Climate-Resilient Solutions and Innovative Financing for WEFE Nexus

Takayoshi Kato, Environmental Economist, Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD)

Aleix Serrat-Capdevila, Senior Water Resources Management Specialist, World Bank

James Dalton, Global Water and Wetlands Team Lead, IUCN 

Co-Moderators:

Thierry Umberht, Swiss Agency for Development and Cooperation, Bern, Switzerland

Ekaterina Strikeleva, Consultant, World Bank

CLOSING SESSION – The Way Forward & Key Recommendations (17:00 – 17:30)

RAPPORTEUR

Dinara Ziganshina, Scientific Information Centre of the Interstate Commission for Water Coordination of Central Asia (SIC ICWC)

CONTACT PERSON

Dinara Ziganshina, SIC ICWC, dinara.ziganshina@gmail.com

The cryosphere—glaciers, snow, and frozen ground—serves as a vital freshwater source, especially in Central Asia, where irrigated agriculture consumes nearly 90 per cent of available water. Climate change is accelerating glacier melt in this region, leading to more frequent mudflows, landslides, and flash floods, which threaten local communities. With Central Asia’s population projected to grow by 37 per cent by 2050, pressure on water resources will increase. Although water availability may peak temporarily, a sharp decline is expected afterward, increasing risks to food, energy, and environment.

Understanding the water cycle in high-altitude areas is critical for sustainable water management. This includes assessing how rainfall, glacier melt, and snowpack contribute to water supply. Tajikistan, generating about 60 per cent of Central Asia’s water resources, plays a key role in regional water resources management and actively collaborates with Central Asian countries and international organizations.

The Forum will highlight the global challenges posed by climate change, focusing on its accelerated impact on glaciers in the Central Asia region. It will discuss the implications of glacier retreat on water availability, natural hazards, and regional stability, emphasizing the urgent need for scientific monitoring, adaptation strategies, and international cooperation to address these challenges. It will explore how cryosphere monitoring is integrated into water allocation decision-making across different countries in Central Asia and beyond. A technical session will take a deep dive into the role of cryosphere monitoring, hydrological tools, and institutional cooperation in ensuring climate resilience and water availability in Central Asia.

CO-ORGANIZERS

Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit (GIZ)

Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe (OSCE)

Ministry of Energy and Water Resources of the Republic of Tajikistan

European Union

German Federal Government

HIGH-LEVEL OPENING SESSION (09:00-09:30)

Water, Food, Energy, and Environmental Security in Central Asia: Challenges and Opportunities

Jamshed Shoimzoda, First Deputy Minister of Energy and Water Resources, Republic of Tajikistan

H.E. Raimundas Karoblis, Head of Delegation, Ambassador of the Delegation of the European Union to Tajikistan

H.E. Bakyt Dzhusupov, Ambassador, Office of the Co-ordinator of OSCE Economic and Environmental Activities (OCEEA), OSCE

H.E. York Schuegraf, Ambassador of Germany to Tajikistan

Sabine Olthof, GIZ Country Director in Tajikistan

KEYNOTE PRESENTATION (09:30-10:00)

Willy Kempel, Ambassador of OSCE to Tajikistan, Transboundary Water Diplomacy in Central Asia

Esteban Boj Garcia, Project Manager, GIZ

Moderator: Esteban Boj Garcia, Project Manager, GIZ

PANEL SESSION: 10:00 – 10:30

Role of Cryosphere Research in Water Allocation Decision-Making in Central Asia

Daler Abdurazoqzoda, Head of the Main Department of Energy and Water Policy of the Ministry of Energy and Water Resources of the Republic of Tajikistan.

Gulomjon Umirzakov, Deputy Director, Hydrometeorological Research Institute of Uzbekistan

Qianggong Zhang, Representative of ICIMOD

Stepanov Alexandr, Representative of European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD)

Moderator: Sharif Mahmudov, Advisor for Integrated Water Resources Management

Q&A DISCUSSION (10:30 – 10:45)

TECHNICAL SESSION (10:45 – 11:50)

Ensuring Climate Resilience and Sustainable Water Management Through Science-Based Policies and Regional Cooperation

Stepanov Alexandr, Representative of EBRD

Ari Weiss, Country Coordinator, IMPACT Initiatives

Behruz Ilnazarov, Climate Risk Management in Central Asia National coordinator

Kanstantsin Tsitou, GFA Consulting Group

Idibeg Mahmayusufzoda, Head of the Information and Analytical Center of the Ministry of Energy and Water Resources of Tajikistan.

Moderator: Esteban Boj Garcia, Project Manager, GIZ

CLOSING SESSION (11:50 – 12:00)

Remarks for the Conference Declaration

Jamshed Shoimzoda, First Deputy Minister of Energy and Water Resources, Republic of Tajikistan

Wulf-Hendrik Goretzky, GIZ IRDP/TRIGGER Project Director

Bakhriniso Narzullaeva, National Environmental Officer, Environmental Legislation and Policy, OSCE Programme Office in Dushanbe

RAPPORTEUR

Esteban Boj Garcia, Project Manager, GIZ

CONTACT PERSONS

Bakhrinisso Narzullaeva, OSCE Programme Office in Dushanbe, Bakhriniso.Narzullaeva@osce.org

Sharif Mahmudov, GIZ Tajikistan, sharif.mahmudov@giz.de

The Women Forum on Glaciers Preservation is held within the framework of the Fifth Global Initiative of Tajikistan with the support of the international community, in accordance with the United Nations General Assembly resolution on declaring 2025 the International Year of Glaciers’ Preservation. The Forum is timed to coincide with the official opening of Tajikistan's chairmanship of the Central Asian Women's Dialogue in 2025.

The Forum will bring women together to discuss their role in addressing key environmental and climate challenges, including the accelerated melting of glaciers and changing water resources.  It should be noted that about 60 per cent of water resources in Central Asia originate in the territory of Tajikistan. In the context of global warming, it is women who play an important role in environmental conservation and sustainable development.

The Forum will initiate a platform for women's cooperation on glacier melting, environmental protection and sustainable development to share knowledge, strengthen partnerships and jointly develop solutions.  It will support and expand the network of women leaders active in water management, climate initiatives and environmental sustainability.

CO-ORGANIZERS

United Nations Regional Centre for Preventive Diplomacy for Central Asia (UNRCCA)

Committee on Women and Family Affairs under the Government of the Republic of Tajikistan

Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Tajikistan

Ministry of Finance of the Republic of Tajikistan

Academy of Sciences of Tajikistan

UN Women

United Nations Food and Population Agency (UNFPA)

REGISTRATION (08:00-09:00)

OPENING CEREMONY (09:00-09:50)

Official Announcement of Tajikistan's Chairmanship of the Central Asia Women's Dialogue

WELCOMING REMARKS

H.E. Mansuri Dilrabo, Deputy Prime Minister of the Republic of Tajikistan

Representative of the Majlisi Namoyandagon of the Majlisi Oli of the Republic of Tajikistan

Kakha Imnadze, Special Representative of the UN Secretary-General for Central Asia, Head of the UN Regional Centre for Preventive Diplomacy for Central Asia (UNRCCA)

Yasmin Siddiqi, Director of Agriculture, Food, Nature, and Rural Development sector, ADB

Shapak Unzila, Member of the Committee on Legislation and Judicial and Legal Reform, Deputy of the Majilis of the Parliament of the Republic of Kazakhstan

Jyldyz Sadyrbaeva, Deputy Mayor of the Jogorku Kenesh of the Kyrgyz Republic

Orzigul Kozikhonova, Chairperson of the Senate Committee on Youth, Women, Culture and Sport of the Oliy Majlis

Moderator: H.E. Bunafsha Fayziddinzoda, Chairperson of the Committee on Women and Family Affairs under the Government of the Republic of Tajikistan

PANEL SESSION 1 (09:50 – 11:00)

Role of Women in Prevention and Adaptation to Climate Change

Elisa Fernandez, Deputy Regional Director, UN Women Regional Office for Europe and Central Asia

Experts from Dialogue countries:

Koishibayeva Ainash, Head of Press Service of the Ministry of Ecology and Natural Resources of the Republic of Kazakhstan

Lurova Leyla Khiyanovna, Deputy Chairman of the Committee on International Affairs, Defense, Security and Migration of the Jogorku Kenesh of the Kyrgyz Republic

Moderator: Abdulhamid Kayumov, Professor, climatologist, Doctor of Medical Sciences, Corresponding Member of the Engineering Academy of Tajikistan, Centre for Glacier Research of the National Academy of Sciences of Tajikistan

PANEL SESSION 2 (11:00 – 12:10)

Successful Women's Initiatives in Glacier Conservation

Dilorom Kayumova, Chairwoman of the Association of Women Studying Glaciers, Centre for Glacier Studies, Academy of Sciences of Tajikistan

Experts from Dialogue countries:

Saule Sabieva, Director of Climate Policy Department of the Republic of Kazakhstan

MODERATOR

Ela Ionescu, Partnerships and Resource Mobilisation Specialist, UN Women Regional Office for Europe and Central Asia.

MEETING RESULTS (12:10 – 12:30)

LUNCH BREAK (13:00 – 14:00)

RAPPORTEUR

Javohir Akobirova, Head of Department of Gender Development and International Relations, Committee on Women and Family Affairs under the Government of the Republic of Tajikistan

CONTACT PERSON

Javohir Akobirova, Head of Department of Gender Development and International Relations, Committee on Women and Family Affairs under the Government of the Republic of Tajikistan, a.javohir@mail.ru

CO-ORGANIZERS

The National Academy of Sciences of Tajikistan

Mountain Societies Research Institute

University of Central Asia

WELCOME REMARKS

Kobiljon Khushvakhtzoda, President of the National Academy of Sciences of Tajikistan

Gerry Christopher, Rector of the University of Central Asia

KEYNOTE SPEECHES

Nazrialo Sheralizoda, Director, Centre for Glacier Research, NAST

Martin Hoelzle, Professor, Department of Geosciences, University of Fribourg, Switzerland

Kenji Tanaka, Professor, Disaster Prevention Research Institute, Kyoto University

Hofiz Navruzshoev, Research Fellow at the Mountain Societies Research Institute, University of Central Asia, and the Senior researcher at the Center for Glacier Research, NAST

SESSION 1: Cryosphere Degradation and its Impacts

Martina Barandun, Senior Researcher, Department of Geoscience, University of Fribourg, Switzerland

Khusrav Kabutov, Head of the Glacier Monitoring, Glaciology, Cryosphere and GIS-Technology Department of the Centre for Glacier Research, NAST

Sanjar Sadyrov, Research Fellow at the Mountain Societies Research Institute, University of Central Asia

SESSION 2: Glacial and periglacial hazards

Alisho Shomakhmadov, Leading researcher of the Centre for Glacier Research, NAST

Vitaly Zaginaev, Research Fellow at the Mountain Societies Research Institute, University of Central Asia

SESSION 3: Field research and innovative methods

Munzifa Davlatova, Researcher, Center for Glacier Research, NAST

Arnaud Caiserman, Associate Director of the Mountain Societies Research Institute, University of Central Asia

Adolat Davlyatova, Researcher, Center for Glacier Research, NAST

SIDE EVENT CHAIRS

Nazrialo Sheralizoda, Director of the Centre for Glacier Research, National Academy of Sciences of Tajikistan

Arnaud Caiserman, Senior Research Fellow, Mountain Societies Research Institute, University of Central Asia

CONTACT PERSONS

Farrukh Homidov, Centre for Glacier Research of the National Academy of Sciences of Tajikistan, homidzodaf@gmail.com

Hofiz Navruzshoev, Mountain Societies Research Institute, University of Central Asia, hofiz.navruzshoev@ucentralasia.org

ORGANIZER

Bremen Overseas Research & Development Association (BORDA)

SESSION 1 (09:30-10:30)

WELCOME NOTE

Dr. Navruz Jafarov, Deputy Head of the State Sanitary and Epidemiological Surveillance Service (SESS), Ministry of Health and Social Protection of the Republic of Tajikistan (MoHSP)

PARTICIPANTS INTRODUCTIONS

PRESENTATION

BORDA Introduction, Observation in Sughd region, WASH & Climate change, Types of Sanitation Solutions, Financing Decentralised Sanitation Solutions (DSS)

Pavan Kumar Reddy, Country Director, BORDA Tajikistan

ROUNDTABLE DISCUSSION- Scaling up DSS challenges and opportunities

Moderator: Pavan Kumar Reddy, Country Director, BORDA Tajikistan

SESSION 2 (10:40-11:10)

PANEL DISCUSSION

Dr. Navruz Jafarov, Deputy Head of the Department of SESS, MoHSP, Government of the Republic of Tajikistan

Olivier Normad, Director, The International Secretariat for Water (ISW), Tajikistan

Saidmurod Qalandarov, Chief Engineer, State Unitary Enterprise, Dushanbe Vodokanal

Rajabali Rasulov, the Deputy of the Committee of Housing and Communal Services under the Government of the Republic of Tajikistan

Moderator: Makhfirat Abdulloeva, Deputy Project Manager, ISW

DISCUSSION TOPICS

·       WASH, glacier preservation, and climate change interlinked in the context of Tajikistan

·       Role of applied research in advancing sustainable sanitation solutions

·       Opportunities for innovative financing mechanisms to support sanitation service delivery

·       High-level assessment of the current work of NGOs in the WASH sector in Tajikistan

·       DSS implementation with limited water and energy access

CONTACT PERSONS

Khizrdod Nazarov, Admin and HR Assistant, BORDA Tajikistan, nazarov@borda-wesca.org 

Ramziya Mardonova, Junior Project Manager, BORDA Tajikistan, mardonova@borda-wesca.org

CO-ORGANIZERS

United Nations Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific (ESCAP)

United Nations Resident Coordinator’s Office for Tajikistan

Agency for Hydrometeorology of Tajikistan

Committee of Emergency Situations and Civil Defense of Tajikistan

North EurAsia Climate Centre (NEACC)

The Asian and Pacific Centre for the Development of Disaster Information Management (APDIM)

REGISTRATION AND TEATIME (09:30-10:00)

OPENING SESSION (10:00 -10:10)

Armida Salsiah Alisjahbana, Executive Secretary, ESCAP (TBC)

Rajabali Rahmonali, Colonel General  Chairman, Committee for Emergency Situations and Civil Defense under the Government of the Republic of Tajikistan (TBC)

Kristine Tovmasyan, Head of United Nations Resident Coordinator Office for Tajikistan

Moderator: Elena Pronina, Disaster Risk Consultant Consultant, ESCAP

SESSION 1 - Climate change and its associated Risks in Central Asia (10:10-10:40)

Elena Pronina, Disaster Risk Consultant, ESCAP

Aleksandr Aleynikov, Senior Researcher, IGCE

Letizia Rossano, Director, APDIM

Sulagna Mishra, Scientific Officer, WMO

SESSION 2 - Tools and Techniques for Climate Adaptation in Central Asia (10:40-11:25)

Valentina Khan, Executive Director, North EurAsia Climate Centre, WMO

Sanjay Srivastava, Chief, Disaster Risk Reduction, ESCAP

General Jamshed Kamolzoda, Head of the Main Department for Protection of Population and Territories, Committee of Emergency Situations and Civil Defense, Tajikistan

Representative from the government of Kazakhstan

Representative from the government of Kyrgyzstan

SESSION 3 - Regional Collaboration (11:25-11:55)

Elena Arefieva, Head Researcher, All-Russian Scientific Research Institute for Civil Defence and Emergencies of the EMERCOM of Russia

Diana Aripkhanova, Project Officer, UNESCO

CLOSING REMARKS (11:55-12:00)

Sattar Saidov, Head of the Climate Change Research Center, Agency for Hydrometeorology of Tajikistan

Sanjay Srivastava, Chief, Disaster Risk Reduction Section, ESCAP

CONTACT PERSON

Ms. Elena Pronina, Disaster Risk Consultant Consultant, ESCAP, elena.pronina@un.org

CO-ORGANIZERS

National Academy of Sciences of Tajikistan

Xinjiang Institute of Ecology and Geography, CAS.

Research Center for Ecology and Environment of Central Asia (Dushanbe)

State Scientific Institution «Center for Research of Glaciers»

Institute of Water Problems, Hydropower and Ecology 

OPENING REMARKS (10:00 -10:30)

Kobiljon Khushvakhtzoda– President of the National Academy of Sciences of Tajikistan

Yuanming Zhang, General Director of the Xinjiang Institute of Ecology and Geography, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Foreign Member of the National Academy of Sciences of Tajikistan

KEY REPORTS (10:30-11:10)

Abdulhamid Kayumov, Senior Scientific Researcher, Glacier Research Center of the National Academy of Sciences of Tajikistan

Ninglian Wang, Professor, Northwest University, China

GROUP PHOTO & COFFEE BREAK (11:10-11:30)

PANEL SESSION (11:30-13:00)

The Role of Glaciers in the Regulation of Water Resources and Water Issues in Central Asia

Anvar Khomidov, Head of Department, Glacier Research Center of the NAST

Yaning Chen, Professor, Xinjiang Institute of Ecology and Geography of the Chinese Academy of Sciences

Jafar Niyazov, Head of the Laboratory, Institute of Water Problems, Hydropower and Ecology of the NAST

Weili Duan, Deputy Director, Xinjiang Institute of Ecology and Geography of the Chinese Academy of Sciences

Ryskul Usubaliev, Senior Researcher, Central Asian Institute of Applied Earth Research, Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan

Jamshed Abdushukurov, Senior Research Fellow, Institute of Water Problems, Hydropower and Ecology of the NAST

Moderator: Zhang Yuanming, General Director of the Xinjiang Institute of Ecology and Geography, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Foreign Member of the National Academy of Sciences of Tajikistan

LUNCH BREAK – Hall of the National Library of Tajikistan (13:00-14:00)

PANEL SESSION (14:00-15:30)

Climate Change Impacts on Glaciers and Nival Ecosystems

Kurbon Nomvar, Head of Department, Institute of Water Problems, Hydropower and Ecology of the NAST

Ningsheng Chen, Professor, Yangtze University, China

Yaoming Ma, Professor, Institute for Tibetan Plateau Research, Chinese Academy of Sciences

Xiangbin Cui, Deputy Director, Center for Ice, Snow and Climate at the Polar Research Institute of China

Sitora Mirzokhonova, Senior Researcher, Institute of Water Problems, Hydropower and Ecology of the NAST

Ghulam Rasul, Advisor, China-Pakistan Joint Research Center, Islamabad

Moderator: Aminjon Gulahmadzoda 

COFFEE BREAK (15:30-15:50)

PANEL SESSION (15:50-17:05)

Modern Methods of Glacier Monitoring

Mustafo Safarov, Special Research Assistant, Xinjiang Institute of Ecology and Geography of the Chinese Academy of Sciences

Feiteng Wang, Professor, Northwest Institute of Eco-Environment and Resources, Chinese Academy of Sciences

Abror Ghafurov, Regional Coordinator, GFZ Helmholtz Center for Geosciences, Potsdam, Germany

Alexey Dudashvili, Secretary, Candidate of Geological and Mineralogical Sciences, Tien Shan Geological Society of Kyrgyzstan

Maksim Petrov, Head of the Department of Glaciology, Institute of Geology and Geophysics named after Kh. M. Abdullaev, University of Geosciences of Uzbekistan

Moderator: Yaoming Li

OPEN DISCUSSION AND DEVELOPMENT OF RECOMMENDATIONS (17:05-17:30)

CONCLUSION (17:30)

CONTACT PERSONS

Nazrialo Sheralizoda, Director of the State Scientific Institution "Center for Research of Glacier”, nazrialo@mail.ru

Majid Gulayozov, Executive Director of the Scientific Research Center for Ecology and Environment of Central Asia, Dushanbe, majid1983@mail.ru

CO-ORGANIZERS

IYGP Task Force 2

International Centre for Integrated Mountain Development (ICIMOD)

The Asia-Pacific Water Forum (APWF)

United Nations Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific (ESCAP)

Clean Air Fund (CAF)

UNESCO Chair in Mountain Water Sustainability

The Small Earth Nepal (SEN) 

WELCOME AND OPENING REMARKS (10:00 -10:10)

Anshuman Varma, Environment Affairs Officer, Environment and Development Policy Section, Environment and Development Division, ESCAP

Shahbaz Khan, APWF Vice Governing Council Chair c/o Director of the UNESCO Office in Beijing and UNESCO Representative to the Democratic People's Republic of Korea, Japan, Mongolia, People's Republic of China, and the Republic of Korea (online)

KEYNOTE PRESENTATION

Izabella Koziell, Deputy Director General, ICIMOD

HIGH-LEVEL PANEL DISCUSSION (10:10-11:05)

From Science to Solutions: Scaling Regional Action

Qianggong Zhang, Strategic Group Lead, Climate and Environmental Risks, ICIMOD

Sampriti Mukherjee, Super Pollutants Portfolio - Focusing on impacts of black carbon emissions on glacier melting and Cryosphere warming, Clean Air Fund

Sanjay Shrivastava, Chief, Disaster Risk Reduction, ESCAP

Anamika Barua, Professor, Indian Institute of Technology, Guwahati, India (online)

Bushra Nishat, Environmental Specialist, World Bank, Bangladesh (online)

Susa Manandhar, Small Earth Nepal (Youth representative) (online)

MODERATORS

Faisal Mueen Qamer, ICIMOD (on-line)

Anshuman Varma, Environment Affairs Officer, Environment and Development Policy Section, Environment and Development Division, ESCAP

INTERACTIVE Q&A SESSION WITH AUDIENCE (11:05-11:20)

Invite comments from participants representing civil society, development agencies, and academia

CLOSING REFLECTIONS AND RECOMMENDATIONS (11:20-11:30)

Summary of key takeaways and Wrap-up remarks

Highlight next steps and pathways for integrating outcomes into global and regional agendas

Shahbaz Khan, APWF Vice Governing Council Chair c/o Director of the UNESCO Office in Beijing and UNESCO Representative to the Democratic People's Republic of Korea, Japan, Mongolia, People's Republic of China, and the Republic of Korea (online)

CONTACT PERSON[KAN1] 

Yumiko Asayama, Chief Manager, Asia-Pacific Water Forum, asayama@waterforum.jp

Anshuman Varma, Environment Affairs Officer, Environment and Development Policy Section, Environment and Development Division, ESCAP, varmaa@un.org

Sampriti Mukherjee, Senior Analyst, Super Pollutants, Clean Air Fund, smukherjee@cleanairfund.org

CO-ORGANIZERS

Embassy of the Russian Federation in the Republic of Tajikistan

Lomonosov Moscow State University in Dushanbe (Dushanbe, Tajikistan)

OPENING REMARKS (10:00 -10:10)

Rustam Gafur Ghanizoda, Executive Director of the Branch of Lomonosov Moscow State University in Dushanbe, Doctor of Economic Sciences

Representative of the Embassy of the Russian Federation in the Republic of Tajikistan

Moderator: Mirzo Saidov, Doctor of Geological and Mineralogical Sciences, Professor at the Branch of Lomonosov Moscow State University in Dushanbe.

PANELISTS (10:20 -13:00)

Ansor Niyazov, Candidate of Geological and Mineralogical Sciences, Leading Researcher of the Geography and Remote Sensing Department of the National Academy of Sciences of Tajikistan.

Uktam Murtazoev, Professor of the Physical Geography Department of the Tajik Tajik State University named after S. Aini

Vaisiddin Yatim Saidzoda, Candidate of Chemical Sciences, Deputy Director for Science and Education of the State Scientific Institution, Glacier Study Center of the National Academy of Sciences of Tajikistan.

Khanafiyа Mukhamadrajab, Journalist at “Ilm va Tabiat” (Science and Nature TV), Tajikistan.

Zebuniso Muminzoda, Country Director of the Regional Environmental Centre for Central Asia (CAREC) in Tajikistan.

Khudoydod Kudratov, Head of the Information Department of the Hydrometeorology Agency of the Committee for Environmental Protection under the Government of the Republic of Tajikistan.

Farid Salikhov, Doctor of Geological and Mineralogical Sciences, Associate Professor at the Branch of Lomonosov Moscow State University in Dushanbe.

Kholnazar Mukhabatov, Doctor of Geographical Sciences, President of the Geographical Society of Tajikistan, Professor at the S. Ayni Tajik State Pedagogical University.

CONTACT PERSON

Khosiyat Komilova, tel: 992 98 562 2323

CO-ORGANIZERS

National Academy of Sciences of Tajikistan

International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA)

State Scientific Institution “Glacier Research Center of the NAST”

Agency for Chemical, Biological, Radiological, and Nuclear Safety of the Academy of Sciences of Tajikistan

WELCOME REMARKS (13:30 -13:40)

Ilhom Amonzoda, Vice-President, National Academy of Sciences of Tajikistan (NAST)

Yulia Vystavnaya, Representative, International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA)

Ilhom Mirsaidzoda, Director, Agency for Chemical, Biological, Radiological, and Nuclear Safety, NAST

Nazrialo Sheralizoda, Director, Glacier Research Center, NAST

PRESENTATIONS (15:10-15:25)

Yulia Vystavnaya, Professor of Hydrogeology, Institute of Hydrology, Slovak Academy of Sciences

Maria Shahgedanova, Professor of Climatology, Walker Institute for Climate System Research, University of Reading, United Kingdom

Ladislav Holko, IAEA Expert in Isotope Hydrology

Farzona Mukhidinnovа, Researcher, Agency for Chemical, Biological, Radiological, and Nuclear Safety of the Academy of Sciences of Tajikistan, Department of Research and Quality Assurance

Dilorom Kayumova, Leading Researcher, Laboratory of “Water Quality, Isotopes, and Sanitation,” State Scientific Institution “Glacier Research Center of NAST”

 Q&A DISCUSSION (14:40-14:50)

CONCLUSION AND ADOPTION OF THE RESOLUTION (14:50-15:00)

CONTACT PERSON

Dilorom Kayumova, Leading Researcher, Laboratory of “Water Quality, Isotopes, and Sanitation,” State Scientific Institution “Glacier Research Center of NAST”, diliorom@yahoo.com

CO-ORGANIZERS

The Conference on Interaction and Confidence-Building Measures in Asia (CICA) Chairmanship of

the Republic of Azerbaijan with the support of the CICA Secretariat

WELCOMING REMARKS (14:00 -14:15)

H.E. Alimirzamin Askerov, Ambassador of the Republic of Azerbaijan to the Republic of Tajikistan

Isfandiyor Shukurzoda, First Deputy Chairman of the Committee for Environmental Protection under the Government of the Republic of Tajikistan

Zhang Ling, CICA Deputy Secretary General

Moderator: Kamran Seyfullayev, Second Secretary of Regional Security Department of the MFA of the Republic of Azerbaijan

KEYNOTE SPEAKERS (14:15-14:30)

Shahin Shahyarov, Acting Director of Analysis and Strategic Studies Department of the MFA

of the Republic of Azerbaijan, Senior Representative of COP29 Presidency

Ugur Turan, Expert in the environmental dimension of the CICA Secretariat

OPEN DISCUSSION (14:30-15:15)

Lutfi Akca, President of Turkish Water Institute (SUEN)

Buyannemekh Boris, Director General of Monitoring, Evaluation and Internal auditing department of the Ministry of Environment and Climate Change of Mongolia

Winai Wangpimool, Director of Foreign Affairs Division of the Mekong River Commission Secretariat for sustainable development of Thailand

Fariza Abduova, Head of Division for Multilateral Cooperation, Department of International Cooperation, Ministry for Ecology and Natural Resources of Kazakhstan (online)

Kong Zhe, Deputy Division Director, Foreign Environmental Cooperation Center, Ministry of Ecology and Environment of China (online)

INTERNATIONAL ORGANIZATIONS

Anshuman Varma, Economic Affairs Officer, Environment and Development Division, ESCAP

Bakytzhan Arystanbek, Project manager at Islamic Organization for Food Security (IOFS)

Margulan Ibraimov, a referent of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization Secretariat (SCO)

Q&A SESSION (15:15-15:25)

CLOSING REMARKS (15:25-15:30)

Key take-away messages by the Moderator, Kamran Seyfullayev, Second Secretary of Regional Security Department of the MFA of the Republic of Azerbaijan

 CONTACT PERSONS

Ugur Turan, CICA Secretariat, ugur.turan@s-cica.org

Narbota Tursynkhan, Personal Assistant to the CICA Deputy Secretary General, narbota@s-cica.org

CO-ORGANIZERS

Federal Republic of Germany

Welt Hunger Hilfe (WHH)

Youth Ecological Center of Tajikistan (YEC)

The Little Earth (LE)

Tajikistan Nature Foundation (TNF)

United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP)

MODERATORS

Qumriya Vafodorova, Welt Hunger Hilfe (WHH)

Yuri Skochilov, Youth Ecological Center of Tajikistan (YEC)

Anisa Abibuloeva, The Little Earth (LE)

WELCOME REMARKS (14:00 -14:10)

Committee for Environmental Protection under the Government of the Republic of Tajikistan

H.E York Schuegraf, Ambassador of Germany to Tajikistan

Blanka Roberts, WHH Country Director in Tajikistan

PRESENTATION & VIDEO (14:10 -14:35)

Yuri Skochilov, Director, “Youth Ecological Center”, head of Tajik Climate Change Network, Dushanbe  

PANEL DISCUSSION (14:35-15:35)

Community-Driven Adaptation: Global Strategies

Anara Alymkulova, Executive Director, Institute of Sustainable Development Strategy Public Fund, Kyrgyzstan

Bulat Yessekin, Coordinator, The Central Asian Platform on Water and Climate Change, Kazakhstan

Mirzonazar Mirzoev, Director of NGO, Tajikistan Nature Foundation (TNF)

Nargis Kasimova, Chairman of Ecology Public Association, Uzbekistan

Salamat Jumabaeva, Manager, CAMP «Alatoo», Kyrgyzstan

Q&A DISCUSSION & VIDEO (15:35-15:50) 

PANEL DISCUSSION (15:50-16:45)

Empowering Gender & Youth in the Climate Crisis: Civil Society's Role in Glacier Preservation & Adaptation

Begimay Baatyrbekova, Director of NGO «Zherdin Bapdary», Kyrgyzstan

Alla Kuvatova, Director of NGO “Gender and Development”, Tajikistan

Ahmad Akramov, Project coordinator of NGO “Youth Ecological Center”, Dushanbe

Ikrom Mamadov, Director of “Youth Group on Protection of Environment" (YGPE), Khujand

Anton Timoshenko, Project coordinator of NGO “Little Earth”, Dushanbe

Q&A DISCUSSION (16:45-16:55)

CLOSING REMARKS (16:50-17:00)

CO-ORGANIZERS

Hanns Seidel Foundation Korea

Central Asian Conservation Network

Ramsar Regional Initiative for Central Asia

Independent Evaluation Unit, Green Climate Fund

East Asian-Australasian Flyway Partnership (EAAFP)

MODERATOR

Hyun-Ah Choi, Hanns Seidel Foundation Korea

SELF-INTRODUCTIONS (14:00 -14:05)

PRESENTATIONS (14:05 -14:45)

Andreas Reumann, Head, Independent Evaluation Unit, Green Climate Fund

Maksim Mitropolskiy, CEPA focal point of Ramsar Convention in the Republic of Uzbekistan, Ramsar Regional Initiative for Central Asia

Khurshed Alimov, Co-chair, Central Asian Conservation Network, Tajikistan

Minjae Baek, EAAFP Secretariat

Jeremie Berlioux, Director of the Nature Foundation, Kyrgyzstan (pre-recorded)

SPECIAL REVIEW (14:45-15:00)

Review of information and recommendations from the Ramsar Convention Secretariat

Musonda Mumba, Secretary General of the Convention on Wetlands

DISCUSSION, Q&A AND CLOSING (15:00)

General discussion and closing remarks by Hyun-Ah Choi, Hanns Seidel Foundation Korea

CO-ORGANIZERS

Central Asia Youth for Water (CAY4W)

Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit (GIZ)

GFA Consulting Group GmbH

HELVETAS Intercooperation gGmbH

European Union (EU)

German Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ)

WELCOMING SPEECHES (14:00 -14:10)

Sabine Olthof - GIZ Country Director in Tajikistan

Isabel Uriz Hernandez - Representative of the European Union Delegation in Tajikistan

SDC Representative

WELCOME AND KICK-OFF QUIZ: How much do you know about glaciers (14:10 -14:20)

Moderator: Kunduz Adylbekova, CAY4W and CAPA

SESSION I (14:20-15:00)

From legacy to innovation: Intergenerational, sustainable solutions for glacier protection and climate adaptation

Anisa Abibulloeva, IRDP/TRIGGER, Water Output, GFA Consulting Group

Amanbek Kerimbekov, CAY4W

Abdimalik Egemberdiev, Kyrgyz Jaiyty, CAPA

Martina Barandun, Adventure of Science

Anvar Khomidov, Center for the Study of Glaciers of the National Academy of Sciences of Tajikistan

Moderator: Samar Kanatov, CAY4W

SESSION II (15:00-15:30)

Bridging the gap: intergenerational dialogue on challenges & solutions on glacier and water issues

What are the challenges affecting the gap between youth, grassroots action and academia-led glacier science activities? - TBC

Samar Kanatov, GIZ Kyrgyzstan and CAY4W

How can Central Asian academia benefit youth and grassroots action on glacier and water issues? - TBC, Academy of Sciences of Tajikistan

Kanstantsin Tsitou, IRDP/TRIGGER, Water Output, GFA Consulting Group

Moderator: Kunduz Adylbekova, CAY4W and CAPA

CLOSING REMARKS AND KEY TAKE-AWAYS (15:30-15:45)

Kunduz Adylbekova, CAY4W and CAPA

 CONTACT PERSON

Sara Scardavilli, International Secretariat for Water, sscardavilli@sie-isw.org

CO-ORGANIZERS

UNEP-hosted Climate and Clean Air Coalition (CCAC)

Clean Air Fund

WELCOME AND OPENING REMARKS (14:00 -14:05)

Kristin Campbell, Programme Specialist (Governance, Strategy) - Climate and Clean Air Coalition

PRESENTATION (14:05-14:15)

Global impact of black carbon emissions on cryosphere regions

Sampriti Mukherjee, Senior Analyst, Super Pollutants Portfolio, Clean Air Fund

PANEL DISCUSSION (14:15-15:10)

Impact of super pollutants on glacier melting and cryosphere warming in different regions

KEYOTE SPEAKERS 

Rolf Rødven, Executive Secretary, Arctic Monitoring and Assessment Program (AMAP)

Umed Vahobov, Programme Specialist/Team Leader on Climate Change, Energy, and Environment, UNDP Tajikistan

Pam Pearson, Executive Director, International Cryosphere Climate Initiative (ICCI)

Ganesh Paudel, Member Secretary, President Chure Terai-Madhesh Conservation Development Board, Government of Nepal

Chris Dickinson, Senior Climate Change Specialist, Asian Development Bank

Interactive discussion on policy and solutions

Moderator: Kristin Campbell, CCAC

INTERACTIVE Q&A SESSION WITH AUDIENCE (15:10-15:20)

Moderator: Kristin Campbell, CCAC 

CLOSING REFLECTIONS AND RECOMMENDATIONS (15:20-15:30)

Qianggong Zhang, Strategic Group Lead, Climate and Environmental Risks, ICIMOD

CONTACT PERSON

Sampriti Mukherjee, Position Senior Analyst – Super Pollutants, Clean Air Fund, smukherjee@cleanairfund.org

ORGANIZER

Swiss Cooperation Office Tajikistan

SOFT OPENING OF THE EXHIBITION (14:00)

Open and free for public

Self-guided tours through the exhibition installations   

Explanations provided by local artists and scientists to visitors in Russian and Tajik

OFFICIAL OPENING (17:30)

Opening remarks by Ambassador and Assistant Director General of SDC, H.E. Christian Frutiger

Guided tour for visitors (in English)

Exchange with participants, scientists and artists

CONCEPT

The concept of the current exhibition consists of a responsive artistic reflection against selected scientific data on glaciers. The composed concept is dedicated to Dushanbe High-level International Conference devoted to the IYGP 2025. The title of the exhibition, “Song of the Glacier,” refers to the tradition of the Central Asian region of lamenting the departing individual and the connection with nature. The exhibition will be interactive, attractive, using multimedia tools and contemporary art forms.

It is structured around three main lines: from regions to countries, from countries to localities, and from localities to individuals. The exhibition symbolizes various memories of glaciers – vast masses (the sound of wind, voices, sounds of time, air bubbles, traces of disasters, changes to the planet, and climatic cycles). Thus, the loss of glaciers is perceived as a loss of knowledge about the world, our nature, and the planet. The glacier holds the past, and as it disappears, we lose knowledge of our planet. From the perspective of the main message, the exhibition is not focused on the horrors of glacier melting, however more on the positive processes that society could contribute to slow down the ecological disaster. The viewer journeys through the exhibition, engaging their senses of sight, touch, and sound.

The goal of the exhibition is to positively influence attitude of people towards the issues of glacier disappearance, seeking social support and involvement through rethinking the narrative of the memory of countries, localities, and individuals among the youth. Synergized scientific, documentary, and artistic processes will contribute to raise awareness about glacier melting and human actions.

CONTACT PERSONS

Muattarkhon Bashirova, Officer for Cultural Affairs, muattarkhon.bashirova@eda.admin.ch

Svetlana Jumaeva, Senior NPO for Climate Change and DRR, svetlana.jumaeva@eda.admin.ch

Paul Waldmann, Programme Officer, paul.waldmann@eda.admin.ch

Pascal Walther, Regional Programme Officer for DRR and Rapid Response, pascal.walther@eda.admin.ch

CO-ORGANIZERS

University of Electronic Science and Technology of China

Institute of Water Problems, Hydropower and Ecology of the National Academy of Sciences of Tajikistan

Zhejiang University of Technology

Northwest Institute of Eco-Environment and Resources, Chinese Academy of Sciences

WELCOMING SPEECHES (14:00 -14:10)

Aminjon Gulakhmadov, Director/Professor, Institute of Water Problems, Hydropower and Ecology of the National Academy of Sciences of Tajikistan

Liu Hailong, Professor, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China

WELCOME AND KICK-OFF QUIZ (14:10 -14:20)

How much do you know about water resource monitoring?

MODERATOR

Yaoming Li, Xinjiang Institute of Ecology and Geography, Chinese Academy of Sciences

Aminjon Gulakhmadov, Director/Professor, Institute of Water Problems, Hydropower and Ecology of the National Academy of Sciences of Tajikistan

SESSION (14:20-15:00)

Aminjon Gulakhmadov, Director/Professor, Institute of Water Problems, Hydropower and Ecology of the National Academy of Sciences of Tajikistan, “Hydrological analysis of Tajikistan”

Chunhai Xu, Vice-director/Professor, Northwest Institute of Eco-Environment and Resources, Chinese Academy of Sciences, “Glacier protection and monitoring programs”

Hailong Liu, Professor, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, “Monitoring methods for water resources Internet of Things”

Tie Liu, Professor, Zhejiang University of Technology, “Optimizing the allocation of water resources”

DISCUSSION

14:20 to 15:00 - Discuss on the technical issues of water resource monitoring in arid areas

15:00 to 15:40 - Discussing on how to sustainably utilize water resources in arid regions

OPEN DISCUSSION WITH AUDIENCE (15:30-15:45)

CONTACT PERSON

penggao@uestc.edu.cn

CO-ORGANIZERS

ECUMENE Global Forum

Key Discussion Questions:

·       What strategies and technologies can help to achieve the goals of economic development, freshwater preservation, water scarcity prevention and adaptation to climate change?

·       What mechanisms can involve business, NGOs and citizens in preservation and rehabilitation of water resources, including glaciers and degraded waters?

·       How to set up cooperation between countries, industry and science to manage transboundary resources?

Welcome speech: Faizullo Mashrab Kurbonalievich – Rector of the Russian-Tajik (Slavonic) University;

Opening remarks: Semyon Grigoriev – Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Russian Federation to the Republic of Tajikistan.

Moderator: Evgeny Khilinskiy – Vice President, Gazprombank (Joint-Stock Company)

Speakers:

1.      Abdullayev Rustam Abdumanonovich – Head of the Department of Water and Energy Policy, Science and Technology Development, Ministry of Energy and Water Resources of the Republic of Tajikistan;

2.      Amonzoda Ilhom Temur – Vice President of the National Academy of Sciences of Tajikistan;

3.      Vyacheslav Fetisov – UN Goodwill Ambassador, Chairman of the Central Council of the All-Russian Society for Nature Protection, Russia (online);

4.     Pirli Kepbanov – Director of the National Institute of Deserts, Flora and Fauna of Turkmenistan;

5.      Hwirin Kim ‒ Head of hydrological and water resources division (hwr),WMO (online);

6.      Yulia Shirokova – Project Manager, Research Institute of Irrigation and Water Problems, Laboratory of Soil Research and Reclamation Processes, Uzbekistan;

7.      Natalia Tornkvist – President of ‘Revival of Nature’ Charitable Foundation, Member of the Public Council of the Federal Service for Supervision of Natural Resources Management, Russia (online);

8.      Abil Vezirov – Advisor of the Head of the Federal Water Resources Agency, Russia;

9.      Yosuke Tomizawa – Senior Program Manager, UN DESA;

10.   Sergey Zhuravlev – Director, State Hydrological Institute, Russia.

CO-ORGANIZERS

The International Organization for Migration (IOM)

Ministry of Labor, Migration, and Employment of Population of the Republic of Tajikistan

WELCOME REMARKS (15:00 -15:10)

H.E. Soleha Khomahmadzoda, Minister of Labor, Migration, and Employment of Population, Republic of Tajikistan

Victor Lutenco, Chief of Mission, International Organization for Migration, Tajikistan

PRESENTATION - Migration, Climate Change, and Migration (15:10-15:25)

Soumyadeep Banerjee, Regional Technical Specialist on Climate Action and Mobility, Climate Action Division, Regional Office for Europe and Central Asia, International Organization for Migration

PANEL DISCUSSION (15:25-16:15)

Bahrom Samadov, Head of the Department of Migration of Population, Ministry of Labour, Migration, and Employment of Population, Government of the Republic of Tajikistan

Sattor Saidov, Head of the Center for the Study of Climate Change and Ozone Layer, Agency for

Hydrometeorology of the Committee of Environmental Protection, Government of the Republic of Tajikistan

Victor Lutenco, Chief of Mission, International Organization for Migration

Sana Zia, Senior Social Development Specialist, Global Department for Social Development, Planet Department Europe and Central Asia Region, World Bank

Manizha Rahmonzoda, Masters student of Kazakh German University, Regional administration of IFAID, Kulob City

Moderator: Stefania Corrado, Advocacy and Communications Expert, Mountain Partnership Secretariat at the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations

Q&A DISCUSSION (16:15-16:25)

CLOSING REMARKS (16:25-16:30)

Victor Lutenco, Chief of Mission, International Organization for Migration, Tajikistan

CONTACT PERSONS

Mohira Fayzulloeva, National Project Officer, International Organization for Migration, mfayzulloeva@iom.int

CO-ORGANIZERS

ECUMENE Global Forum 

This side event aims to explore how carbon markets can serve as an effective monetization tool for environmental projects in Central Asia. In the context of the region, climate projects can have multiple positive effects, such as improvement of food security and water balance, adaptation to climate change. Participants will discuss projects such as forest restoration, green corridor development along rivers and water bodies, sustainable land use and mountain ecosystems protection that not only contribute to climate change adaptation, but also have the potential to generate carbon assets in demand on the international market. Special attention will be paid to lessons from building carbon markets and implementing climate projects that could benefit the region. The event will convene businesses, sustainability experts and representatives of governmental to share experiences and identify solutions for strengthening Central Asia’s climate resilience.

Key Discussion Questions:

·       How can ecosystem restoration and sustainable land use projects improve regional water balance?

·       How can carbon markets finance nature-based projects? What barriers exist, and how can they be overcome?

·       How can Russia’s experience in climate projects and national carbon market development be adapted for Central Asia?

·       How can Central Asian countries enhance collaboration to advance climate initiatives?

Moderator: Evgeny Khilinskiy – Vice President, Gazprombank (Joint-Stock Company)

Speakers:

1.     Esentur Jamalov – Deputy Director of the Climate Finance Center of the Kyrgyz Republic;

2.      Zafar Makhmudov ‒ Executive Director of the Regional Environmental Centre for Central Asia (CAREC), Tajikistan;

3.      Artem Marinin – Head of Climate Solutions Block, SIBUR LLC, Russia;

4.      Sharofzoda Farkhod Razzok – Director of the Research Institute of Sustainable Development and Green Economy under the Government of Tajikistan;

5.      Alexey Spirin – Climate Advisor, En+, Russia.

CO-ORGANIZERS

Ministry of Ecology and Natural Resources of the Republic of Kazakhstan

Project Office for Central Asia on Climate Change and Green Energy

United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO)

OPENING REMARKS (16:00 -16:25)

H.E. Yerlan Nyssanbayev, Minister of Ecology and Natural Resources of the Republic of Kazakhstan

H.E. Meder Mashiev, Minister of Natural Resources, Ecology and Technical Supervision of the Kyrgyz Republic

H.E. Bakhodur Sheralizoda, Chairman of the Committee for Environmental Protection under the Government of the Republic of Tajikistan

H.E. Charygeldi Babaniyazov, Minister of Environmental Protection of Turkmenistan

H.E. Aziz Abdukhakimov, Minister of Ecology, Environmental Protection and Climate Change of the Republic of Uzbekistan

Arnold Kreilhuber, Regional Director and Representative of United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) for Europe

Lidia Brito, Assistant Director-General for Natural Sciences, UNESCO

PRESENTATION (16:25-16:30)

Climate (and water) science and what this means for the region

Celeste Saulo, Secretary-General, World Meteorological Organization (WMO)

PANEL DISCUSSION (16:30-17:20)

Scientific Potential and Gaps in the Region: Inventory and Research Foundation for Regional Climate Summit-2026

Moderator: Yerlik Karazhan, CEO of the Project Office for Central Asia on Climate Change and Green Energy, Central Asia Climate Foundation

PANELISTS:

H.E. Yerlan Nyssanbayev, Minister of Ecology and Natural Resources of the Republic of Kazakhstan

H.E. Meder Mashiev, Minister of Natural Resources, Ecology and Technical Supervision of the Kyrgyz Republic

H.E. Bakhodur Sheralizoda, Chairman of the Committee for Environmental Protection under the Government of the Republic of Tajikistan

H.E. Charygeldy Babaniyazov, Minister of Environmental Protection of Turkmenistan

H.E. Aziz Abdukhakimov, Minister of Ecology, Environmental Protection and Climate Change of the Republic of Uzbekistan

Stefan Uhlenbrook, Director of Hydrology, Water and Cryosphere program, WMO

Bapon Fakhruddin, Water Sector Lead, Green Climate Fund (GCF)

Iulii Didovets, Project Lead, Potsdam Institute for Climate Impact Research (PIK)

Barbara Janusz-Pawletta, Head of the Regional Representative Office for Central Asia, IWMI.

Talaibek Makeev, Technical advisor of the GEF-UNDP-UNESCO Cryosphere project

CONCLUSION AND RECOMMENDATIONS (17:20-17:30)

Yerlik Karazhan, CEO of the Project Office for Central Asia on Climate Change and Green Energy, Central Asia Climate Foundation

CONTACT PERSON

Yerlik Karazhan, CEO of the Project Office for Central Asia on Climate Change and Green Energy, Central Asia Climate Foundation

Conference participants are invited to immerse themselves in the rich cultural heritage of the Tajik people during the Glacier Festival:

Buses will transport participants from designated hotels and the National Library to the Glacier Festival venue in Navruzgoh Park.  Buses will depart from designated hotels at 18h30. Buses will return participants to the designated hotels after the programme concludes.