According to the regional hokimiyat, the delegation met with Egypt’s Minister of Water Resources and Irrigation Hani Sewilam to discuss practical areas of bilateral cooperation.

As mentioned during the meeting, the Qizilqum Desert covers much of Navoi region. Therefore, sustainable water resource management is essential when developing new lands, especially in Kanimekh, Tomdi, and Uchquduq districts. Egypt’s experience is particularly relevant to Navoi, given its vast deserts and extensive expertise in land development under water-scarce conditions, groundwater exploration, efficient well operation, and modern irrigation techniques.

During the talks, several practical proposals were put forward to adapt this experience to the conditions in Navoi region. In particular, the parties considered selecting a promising desert site in the region and conducting a comprehensive hydrogeological and economic assessment with the participation of Egyptian specialists.

The parties also discussed involving Egyptian companies in groundwater exploration, drilling new wells, and developing desert areas.

As part of the cooperation, the parties proposed establishing practical collaboration between Egypt’s National Water Research Center and relevant scientific institutions in Uzbekistan, arranging specialist exchanges, and conducting joint research.

When assessing the efficiency of water resource use, the importance of comprehensively studying water levels in existing wells, the degree of mineralization, and the energy consumed in their operation was emphasized. In particular, calculating the actual cost of one cubic meter of water will make it possible to identify specific measures to improve the efficiency of water and energy use.

The operation of wells using solar energy and the introduction of modern water-saving irrigation technologies were also among the key topics of the talks. These approaches not only help conserve water in desert areas with limited water resources but also help optimize energy costs.

Following the meeting, a proposal was made to select Navoi region as one of the initial pilot sites for implementing projects in collaboration with Egypt’s National Water Research Center. It was agreed to facilitate expert exchanges, develop a detailed project, and sustain ongoing cooperation.