Since the mid-19th century, the water level in Issyk-Kul has decreased by almost 14 meters, which corresponds to a loss of about 85 billion cubic meters of water. This was reported by Bakyt Torobaev, the Minister of Agriculture of Kyrgyzstan, during his speech at the "Sustainable Impact Forum" as part of the World Government Summit taking place in Dubai, according to the ministry's press service.
According to Torobaev, there is also a sharp reduction in the number of rivers flowing into the lake. This is linked to glacial melting, changes in the hydrological regime, and increased water consumption.
He emphasized that Issyk-Kul represents a unique ecosystem of regional significance and is an important socio-economic and natural resource for the country. The decrease in water level could lead to serious ecological and socio-economic problems, such as threats to biodiversity, tourism potential, and the well-being of the local population.
The minister stressed that the protection of Issyk-Kul should become part of the international agenda on climate and water resources. He called on the global community to expand partnerships in sustainable water resource management, integrate issues of climate, water, and ecosystems, and support joint initiatives for the protection of unique natural sites.
Kyrgyzstan expressed its readiness to be a reliable partner in the protection of water ecosystems and the formation of a sustainable water future.
