It has been reported that since the mid-19th century, the water level in Lake Issyk-Kul has decreased by almost 14 meters, which corresponds to a reduction in the total water volume of approximately 85 billion cubic meters. This was stated by the Minister of Agriculture of the Kyrgyz Republic, Bakyt Torobaev, during his speech at the "Sustainable Impact Forum," held as part of the World Government Summit in Dubai, according to the information from the ministry's press service.
Torobaev also noted that the number of rivers flowing into the lake has significantly decreased, which is related to glacier melting, changes in the hydrological regime, and increased water consumption.
He emphasized that Issyk-Kul represents a unique regional-scale ecosystem and is an important socio-economic and natural resource for Kyrgyzstan. Further decline in the water level could lead to serious ecological and socio-economic problems, including threats to biodiversity, tourism appeal, and the well-being of local residents.
The minister stressed the need to include the issues of preserving Issyk-Kul in the global agenda on climate and water resources. He called on the international community to expand cooperation in sustainable water resource management and to integrate climate, water supply, and ecosystem issues, as well as to support joint initiatives for the protection of unique natural sites.
Kyrgyzstan expressed its readiness to become a reliable partner in the protection of water ecosystems and the formation of a sustainable water future.
