Uzbekistan to Launch Agro-Innovation Hub for Central Asia and the Caucasus

Uzbekistan is set to establish a groundbreaking Agro-Innovation Hub aimed at fostering scientific collaboration and sustainable agricultural development across Central Asia and the Caucasus, marking a significant step forward in regional cooperation and food security.

During the Third United Nations Conference on Landlocked Developing Countries, Uzbekistan’s Agriculture Minister Ibrokhim Abdurakhmonov held a key meeting with UN Under Secretary-General Rabab Fatima to review progress on commitments made at the international forum titled “Landlocked Developing Countries: Food Security and Sustainable Development Goals,” held in Tashkent in September 2024, The Caspian Post reports per Uzbek media.

This hub aims to promote ongoing dialogue and scientific collaboration to address challenges posed by limited access to maritime trade routes.

Fatima highlighted that the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) is currently reviewing Uzbekistan’s concept, with plans to establish two such hubs-one in Africa and one in Uzbekistan. Further details on cooperation and development of the hubs will be explored during the ongoing conference.

Additionally, Uzbekistan’s Agriculture Ministry has set up a dedicated Secretariat to coordinate activities related to food security and sustainable development goals for landlocked developing countries.

Both sides agreed on accelerating the practical steps needed to implement the Agro-Innovation Hub initiative, marking a significant stride toward regional agricultural innovation and cooperation.