Tojibaev Komiljon, a botanist from Uzbekistan, has spent nearly a decade collaborating with Chinese scientists to document the biodiversity beneath the Tianshan Mountains in the Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region. His partnership with the Xinjiang Institute of Ecology and Geography highlights how cross-border scientific cooperation is unlocking secrets of Central Asia’s ecosystems.
Since his first visit to Urumqi in 2014, Tojibaev has co-authored over 20 papers identifying rare plant species and analyzing climate resilience. \"This region is a living laboratory,\" he says, emphasizing Xinjiang’s unique role as a bridge between Asian and European flora. Researchers credit their work with advancing sustainable agricultural practices crucial for arid regions globally.
The collaboration reflects growing ties between China and Central Asian nations in science and education, with initiatives like the Belt and Road fostering joint conservation efforts. Over 3,000 plant species have been cataloged in Xinjiang alone through such partnerships, offering insights into biodiversity preservation amid climate challenges.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
