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Nordic Environmental Dialogue Platform: “Kyrgyzstan — the Land of Mountains and Snow Leopards”
December 15 , 2025
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An important scientific and educational event on this topic was held at Nordic International University in cooperation with the Embassy of the Kyrgyz Republic in Uzbekistan.
Organized in connection with International Mountain Day and International Snow Leopard Day, the event featured broad discussions on pressing issues related to the ecological sustainability of Central Asia.
The conference provided an in-depth analysis of key topics such as the protection of mountain ecosystems, sustainability of water resources, glacier retreat, and the conservation of the snow leopard—considered a symbol of the region’s biodiversity.
The meeting, hosted by Nordic International University, was attended by representatives of the Embassy of the Kyrgyz Republic, scientists from the International Water Management Institute (IWMI), faculty members, students, and members of the general public.
At the beginning of the event, a photo exhibition titled “Mountains — Our Shared Heritage” was presented, along with video materials showcasing the mountains of Kyrgyzstan, Ala-Too landscapes, Issyk-Kul Lake, and the region’s unique mountain flora and fauna.
Ecological awareness among young people and participants was enhanced through infographics and informational booklets.
During the opening ceremony, the Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Kyrgyz Republic to Uzbekistan, Duyshonkul Chotonov, spoke in detail about Kyrgyzstan’s international environmental initiatives within the UN framework, including the declaration of 2002 as the International Year of Mountains, December 11 as International Mountain Day, and the Bishkek Global Mountain Summit initiatives. He particularly emphasized the importance of the Bishkek Declaration and regional cooperation in addressing glacier melting, water security, and the protection of the snow leopard population.
At the event, the Rector of Nordic International University, Professor Sherzod Mustafakulov, emphasized that mountains are not only a geographical feature but also a strategic ecological resource that defines life across Central Asia. He highlighted the university’s commitment to ecological sustainability as a priority in education and scientific research, as well as the importance of international dialogue and cooperation in this field.
In addition, Dr. Iskandar Abdullaev, Senior Researcher at IWMI, delivered an analytical presentation titled “Mountains, Water, and Ecosystems.” The presentation scientifically addressed glacier retreat, threats to water resources, the ecological significance of mountain regions, and sustainable water management in Central Asia. A Q&A session and lively discussion followed.
During the conference, Ambassador Duyshonkul Chotonov presented a Certificate of Appreciation to Rector Sherzod Mustafakulov in recognition of his active participation and significant contribution to promoting initiatives aimed at protecting mountain ecosystems and ensuring their sustainable development, as well as for supporting events dedicated to International Mountain Day that strengthen friendship and cooperation.
This event became an important platform for dialogue, contributing to the strengthening of ecological, scientific, and cultural-diplomatic cooperation between Kyrgyzstan and Uzbekistan, raising environmental awareness among youth, and fostering a deeper sense of responsibility for preserving Central Asia’s shared natural heritage.
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The meeting featured an analytical lecture followed by an interactive Q&A session and open dialogue with students. This engagement not only enriched participants’ historical knowledge but also encouraged independent and critical thinking.
Students from the university’s History and Journalism programs actively participated in the roundtable discussion.
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During the visit, a substantive exchange of ideas took place with the esteemed guest — an international expert possessing extensive experience in journalism and educational management. The discussions focused on key global education trends, contemporary governance approaches, and emerging models of academic development, while also outlining prospective avenues for collaboration.
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As a result of the meeting, mutual understandings were reached on expanding international scientific and analytical platforms, paving the way for deeper institutional cooperation.
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The delegation was led by Anna Gutkowska-Zając, Regional Director for Eurasia and Central Asia at Educational Testing Service (ETS).
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A more comprehensive insight and extended perspectives can be found in the April 10 issue of Xalq so‘zi.