He emphasized that in conditions of water scarcity, the effective use of resources becomes one of the most important tasks for Central Asia.
According to the diplomat, intergovernmental connections have been established, allowing for regular meetings of the joint commission on water issues.
The parties are working on issues related to the distribution of water resources in transboundary rivers, preparation for the growing season, increasing the efficiency of water use, and adapting to climate change. Regional coordination of the operation modes of reservoirs and hydraulic structures is also being carried out.
This activity is conducted in a trilateral format, which includes Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, and Uzbekistan, allowing for the regulation of the entire water-energy system of the region.
Niyazkhodjaev specifically noted the significance of the hydropower project Kambar-Ata HPP-1, which is considered key for regional cooperation.
He also reported on the joint efforts of the parties in the repair of water facilities and hydraulic structures. "When there is a need for the repair of canals or hydraulic structures, we officially contact the Kyrgyz side, provide a list of necessary equipment and specialists. After coordination, they come and carry out the required work," he added.
The ambassador spoke about the measures being taken in Uzbekistan to conserve water resources. From 2020 to 2024, more than 60 trillion sums from the budget and $622 million in foreign investments have been allocated for the development of water-saving technologies.
If in 2020 water-saving technologies were used on only 4% of irrigated lands, by 2026 this figure is expected to reach 60%, which will amount to about 2.6 million hectares.
"These measures allow for an annual saving of about 2.5 billion cubic meters of water," emphasized Niyazkhodjaev.
Additionally, the country is modernizing its water resource management system: some facilities have been transferred to private management, and automation of hydroposts and digital monitoring are being implemented.
In 2024, a new program for water resource management and the development of the irrigation sector until 2028 was adopted, within which it is planned to expand the use of water-saving technologies to 3.5 million hectares, which will account for about 80% of irrigated lands.
A reduction in water losses is also expected due to an increase in the share of concrete channels and a decrease in energy consumption at pumping stations.
Special attention is also being paid to training personnel for the water management sector: Uzbekistan plans to create a training center for 200 places to prepare specialists in this field.
