On 25 December of the current year, at the initiative of the Committee for Environmental Protection under the Government of the Republic of Tajikistan, a scientific and practical conference entitled “The Romit Biosphere Reserve: Opportunities for Sustainable Development, Science, and Ecotourism” was held at the Hilton Hotel in Dushanbe. This event was implemented with the support of development partners, including the OSCE Programme Office in Dushanbe, the German Agency for International Cooperation (GIZ), HELVETAS Swiss Intercooperation, as well as the Research Institute for Sustainable Development and Green Economy of the International University of Tourism and Entrepreneurship of Tajikistan.
The conference commenced with an opening speech by the Deputy Chairman of the Committee for Environmental Protection under the Government of the Republic of Tajikistan, Rahmonzoda Loik. The conference was attended by scientists, experts, representatives of ministries and agencies, national and international scientific and public organizations, students, and environmental volunteers. The speakers delivered presentations and reports on important issues of environmental protection, sustainable use of natural resources, sustainable development, scientific research, and the promotion of ecological tourism within the territory of the Romit Biosphere Reserve.
During the presentations, the role of the Romit Biosphere Reserve as a unique natural area of international significance was emphasized. Opportunities for its scientific, environmental, and tourism-related use were examined, with due regard to the principles of sustainable development. In addition, issues of biodiversity conservation, strengthening interagency cooperation, engaging local communities, and developing ecotourism as an important component of the “green” economy were addressed.
Participants noted that the organization of such events is of particular importance for the exchange of experience, the presentation of scientific research findings, and the identification of priority areas for further activities in the field of environmental protection and sustainable use of natural resources.
In conclusion, it was emphasized that the outcomes of the conference may serve as a favorable basis for the development of practical recommendations and the strengthening of cooperation aimed at the further development of the Romit Biosphere Reserve.
