Speech by Mr. Rajesh Uike, Ambassador of the Republic of India to the Republic of Tajikistan in the International Scientific and Practical Conference entitled: “Green Economy in the context of climate change: Transformation for sustainable development” Dedicated to the International Year of Glaciers’ Preservation – 2025 Organized by the Research Institute for Sustainable Development and Green Economy of the International University of Tourism and Entrepreneurship of Tajikistan, in coordination with the Executive Office of the President of the Republic of Tajikistan
(May 15, 2025)
Your Excellency Rector of the International University of Tourism and Entrepreneurship of Tajikistan, Doctor of Economics, Professor Asrorzoda Ubaidullo Sattor, Hon’ble Director of the Research Institute for Sustainable Development and Green Economy, prof. Sharofzoda Farhod Razzoq, Excellencies, Ladies and Gentlemen,
It is an honour to address this important conference at a critical time for our planet and our collective future. I commend the International University of Tourism and Entrepreneurship of Tajikistan, its Research Institute for Sustainable Development and Green Economy, and the Executive Office of the President of the Republic of Tajikistan for organizing this timely and essential forum.
The year 2025, designated by the United Nations as the International Year of Glaciers’ Preservation, is a powerful recognition of the urgent need to address the retreat of glaciers — one of the most visible indicators of global climate change. Tajikistan, home to over 13,000 glaciers and often called the water tower of Central Asia, has rightly taken the lead in raising awareness and mobilizing action on this issue of global concern.
The theme of this conference — “Green Economy in the Context of Climate Change” — resonates deeply with the priorities of the Government of India. We believe that the green economy is not merely an alternative, but the imperative path for inclusive and sustainable development. India’s commitments under the Paris Agreement, our National Hydrogen Mission, and the ambitious “Lifestyle for Environment” (LiFE) initiative launched by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, reflect our integrated approach to economic growth, environmental stewardship, and global cooperation.
In a world marked by increasing ecological fragility, international cooperation is not optional — it is essential. The Himalayas and the Pamirs are connected not just by geography, but by shared environmental destinies. India stands ready to deepen its collaboration with Tajikistan and other regional partners on climate research, renewable energy, water management, and mountain ecosystem resilience.
Let us also recognize the crucial role of youth, academia, and innovation in shaping the transformation we seek. Conferences like this one inspire the exchange of ideas, foster scientific collaboration, and most importantly, build the foundations of a green future.
In closing, I reiterate India’s solidarity with Tajikistan in its leadership on glacier preservation, and our commitment to a development path that is green, inclusive, and resilient. Let us work together to ensure that the mountains continue to feed our rivers, sustain our people, and inspire future generations.
Thank you!
