The event is attended by representatives of 186 GEF member countries, international organizations, financial institutions, environmental agencies, civil society and the private sector.

Within a few days, the governing bodies of the GEF will consider the allocation of more than $ 200 million in environmental and climate projects, as well as discuss programmatic areas of cooperation for the period 2026-2030. The meetings of the Councils of the GEF, LDCF/SCCF and GBFF are dedicated to accelerating the achievement of global environmental goals under the 2030 Agenda.

The meeting was opened by Aziz Abdukhakimov, Adviser to the President of the Republic of Uzbekistan on Environmental Issues, Chairman of the National Committee on Ecology and Climate Change, and Claude Gascon, Director General and Director of Strategy and Operations at the Global Environment Facility.

Aziz Abdukhakimov noted that hosting the GEF Assembly and related events in Samarkand is a great honor for Uzbekistan.

"For centuries, Samarkand has connected people, cultures and ideas from different continents. Today, the city is once again becoming a point of unification for global cooperation in addressing common environmental challenges," he stressed.

The Chairman also noted that the theme of the current Assembly - "The last leap by 2030" - is especially relevant in the context of the intensifying environmental crisis and the shortening time to achieve international commitments in the field of environmental protection.

During the speech, it was emphasized that Uzbekistan highly appreciates the long-term partnership with the GEF. Over the years of cooperation, the foundation has supported the country in preserving biodiversity, including protecting snow leopards, restoring ecosystems in the Aral Sea region, increasing climate resilience, and improving sustainable land and waste management. To date, the GEF project portfolio in Uzbekistan includes 13 projects totaling USD 56 million. Additionally, a portfolio of five new projects worth over $30 million has been formed.

During the meetings of the Council, participants will consider projects for the conservation of oceans and biodiversity, the development of sustainable infrastructure, adaptation to climate change and the introduction of mixed financing mechanisms. In particular, it is planned to discuss initiatives in the field of renewable energy and energy storage systems, including for Uzbekistan.

In addition, the GEF-9 programmatic strategy is expected to be approved, as well as new support mechanisms for least developed countries and small island States.

Special attention will be paid to the role of civil society and local communities in achieving environmental goals. On the eve of the Assembly, a Forum of civil Society organizations of the GEF will also be held in Samarkand.

The official opening of the Eighth GEF Assembly will take place in Samarkand on June 4.