During the round table, the main challenges facing the country's water sector were identified and discussed, along with the reforms being implemented by the government. Participants reviewed plans and strategic approaches for attracting investments to the water sector in the medium and long term.
Despite Kyrgyzstan's significant water resources, the available volumes remain limited, which affects the development of agriculture, energy, and drinking water supply systems.
The country's water resources include:
– annual river runoff of about 50 billion cubic meters;
– groundwater reserves of 14 billion cubic meters;
– nearly 10,000 glaciers;
– over 45,000 rivers, with a total length of about 168,000 kilometers.
According to international organizations, the water stress level in Kyrgyzstan has reached 3.28, indicating a high risk approaching a "pre-crisis" state.
Almaz Zheenaliev, Deputy Minister of Water Resources, Agriculture, and Processing Industry, in his speech, talked about the reforms aimed at modernizing the water sector:
“We are consistently working on improving the legislative framework. Several key documents have already been developed and adopted in this direction: the National Water Strategy until 2040; the National Development Program until 2030; a new edition of the Water Code; the Presidential Decree "On Measures for the Further Development of the Agro-Industrial Complex of the Kyrgyz Republic." In addition, we are actively promoting the climate agenda.”
According to Zheenaliev, the reform, including the construction of reservoirs, modernization of irrigation, digitalization, and the creation of basin authorities, creates a unified approach to enhancing water security in the country.
During the discussions, emphasis was placed on attracting investments in the irrigation sector and water resource management. Participants noted that investments should be directed towards the construction and modernization of reservoirs, reconstruction of irrigation canals, implementation of water-saving technologies, digitalization of water accounting, development of infrastructure for climate change adaptation, and training specialists in water management.
In conclusion, the participants of the round table emphasized that government and international partners share a common position regarding the priorities for the development of the water sector. Joint efforts will help strengthen the economy's resilience to climate risks and ensure water and food security in Kyrgyzstan.
