The specific objectives were:
1. To raise awareness of EU's policies, principles and values in Uzbekistan, notably in relation to the protection of the environment and climate action in the Aral Sea basin.
This was expected to be done through the organisation of a study visit to the Aral Sea region in order to:
i) disseminate information about the work being done by the Government and MPHSTF in the Aral Sea region;
ii) demonstrate a successful case that proves it possible to achieve significant and long-lasting results with limited funds;
iii) pave the way for future green investments and support to the region.
2. Provide assistance to the government of Uzbekistan in its efforts to mitigate negative effects of the Aral Sea disaster to the environment and population of Karakalpakstan.
3. Contribute to improvement of the ecosystem and sustainable life in the saline lands of the dried bottom of the Aral Sea by planting of 27 000 trees that are resistant to the climatic conditions of the region, such as ash, elm, catalpa, willow, saxaul, kandym, and others.