The National Kurultai in Kazakhstan emphasized important aspects of regional water and environmental policy
At the recent National Kurultai, President of Kazakhstan Kassym-Jomart Tokayev focused on critical issues of water and environmental security, calling them key factors for ensuring sustainable development in Central Asia. He noted that water diplomacy is a key tool for cooperation among the countries of the region, which have already signed agreements on the joint use of transboundary water resources.
In his address, Tokayev emphasized the need to reach consensus among neighboring states on key water and environmental objects, such as the Caspian Sea, the Aral Sea, Lake Balkhash, and the Irtysh River. He also highlighted Kazakhstan's active role in international environmental initiatives, including the proposal to create an International Water Organization.
Additionally, an International Environmental Summit is scheduled to take place in Astana in April, where the issue of the Aral Sea will be discussed at the level of heads of state. This underscores the importance of water issues as a common concern that transcends national interests.
Zholbors Zhorobekov, a Doctor of Political Science and professor, commenting on the president's words, noted their significance for all of Central Asia.
The expert emphasized that Kassym-Jomart Tokayev is one of the most prepared figures in the region and even at a broader Eurasian level, which is reflected in the depth and logic of his statements. According to him, the water issue has long ceased to be solely an internal affair of states.
"The main sources of water resources are located in the mountainous regions of Kyrgyzstan and Tajikistan; however, the consequences of water scarcity also affect Uzbekistan and Kazakhstan. Therefore, water resources should be viewed as a common problem, the solution to which requires joint efforts," Zhorobekov noted.
He added that without coordinated actions and agreed approaches, the region risks facing exacerbated environmental and socio-economic problems. The expert supported the idea of the need for more rational use of water resources, including a review of agricultural structures, reducing the cultivation of water-intensive crops, and implementing effective technologies such as drip irrigation.
The Aral Sea, in Zhorobek's opinion, also deserves special attention. Even small signs of its recovery show that with political will and joint efforts, positive changes can be achieved.
Overall, the expert believes that Kassym-Jomart Tokayev's speech illustrates an understanding of the interdependence of Central Asian countries and emphasizes the importance of transitioning from individual solutions to a systematic regional dialogue, which is necessary for ensuring sustainable development in the future.
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