OSCE conference fosters co-operation on Central Asia environment

TASHKENT, 31 October 2007 - Technology transfers and strengthening co-operation between the public and private sectors to tackle Central Asia's environmental issues was the focus of an international conference organized by the OSCE that ended today in Tashkent.

"We were again reminded that addressing the challenges posed by land degradation and water scarcity require strong commitment of all the stakeholders involved - governments and business - that dialogue and regional co-operation are crucial" said Jose Luis Rodriguez de Colmenares y Tascon, representative of the Spanish OSCE Chairmanship, in his closing remarks at the conference.

Spain, which holds the Chairmanship of the OSCE this year, has focused on exchange of best practices and technology with Uzbekistan and its neighboring countries.

The two-day conference, called "Main Challenges for Providing Environmental Security and Sustainable Development in the Region of Central Asia: Degradation of Land and Pollution of Soil", was organized by the OSCE Spanish Chairmanship and the Office of the Co-ordinator of OSCE Economic and Environmental Activities, with support of the Ministry of Agriculture and Water Resources of Uzbekistan.

The meeting is a follow-up event to the 15th OSCE Economic and Environmental Forum.

"This conference should not remain a standalone event but follow-up activities should be considered and implemented," said Rodriguez de Colmenares y Tascon. "Technology transfers can benefit the environment and underpin economic development at the same time but in order to succeed, an appropriate and functional institutional environment and the right incentives have to be in place."

Bernard Snoy, Co-ordinator of OSCE Economic and Environmental Activities, added:

"Sharing of information and know how between countries, but also strengthened cooperation between governmental agencies, scientific community and the investors are essential to fully tackle these complex problems. With regard to technology transfers towards the Central Asian region, the OSCE could further encourage contacts between stakeholders and also pay due attention to capacity building, education and training components."