Kazakhstan and Uzbekistan to Launch Joint “Clean Air” Programme
Kazakh President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev has officially backed the «Clean Air» initiative proposed by his Uzbek counterpart Shavkat Mirziyoyev. According to the Akorda presidential press service Tokayev has suggested merging their environmental efforts to tackle the region’s growing ecological crisis together.
During their recent talks Tokayev highlighted that severe air pollution is a pressing issue that extends far beyond Tashkent. He pointed out that major Kazakh urban centres are also suffering with Almaty recently ranking among the most polluted cities in the world. The Kazakh leader stressed that the implementation of urgent environmental measures can no longer be delayed.
To combat the smog Tokayev proposed executing the «Clean Air» programme as a united front operating under the direct patronage of both heads of state and their respective governments. He emphasised that a high-profile cross-border project of this magnitude would compel local authorities and private businesses to take their ecological responsibilities and nature conservation efforts far more seriously.
Economic roadmaps and cultural exchange
Beyond the shared environmental concerns the two presidents used the meeting to reaffirm their mutual commitment to deepening bilateral economic ties. Both sides agreed to instruct their governments to intensify negotiations and establish concrete statistical targets for trade and industrial output.
To ensure these goals are met the leaders agreed to draft a comprehensive roadmap outlining the future trajectory of their commercial and economic partnership.
The high-level discussions also focused heavily on the importance of strengthening humanitarian connections.
Mirziyoyev and Tokayev pledged to dedicate resources to expanding regional tourism, fostering regular cultural exchanges and developing new joint initiatives designed to bring the citizens of both nations closer together.
