International Conference on “Towards Regional Initiatives for Sustainable and Climate Resilient Water Supply and Sanitation Services in Central Asia” has kicked off in Tashkent.

International Conference on “Towards Regional Initiatives for Sustainable and Climate Resilient Water Supply and Sanitation Services in Central Asia” has kicked off in Tashkent.

The conference, organized by the Ministry of Housing and Communal Services of the Republic of Uzbekistan together with the World Bank, is funded by the Central Asia Water & Energy Program (CAWEP) and the Global Facility for Disaster Reduction and Recovery (GFDRR).

The event, with participation of authorized representatives of relevant ministries and agencies of the country, about 100 participants from various countries of the world, including heads of communal services, scientific experts, representatives of state organizations and the private sector of Central Asian countries, is dedicated to discussing issues of stable water supply and sanitation systems that are resistant to climate change.

The impact of climate change on water security, water supply and sanitation services in Central Asia was analyzed. The process of assessment, planning and development of water supply and sanitation services that are resistant to climate change were studied. Prospects for further expansion of regional cooperation on water resources management were also considered.

At the event, experts from Bulgaria, Portugal, South Africa and Israel, the World Bank Group, the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development, and International Secretariat for Water shared international experience that can be applied in Central Asia. Information was provided on national practices and private sector participation. Issues of improving the effectiveness of reforms and national capacity were discussed.

Following the conference, a plan of further measures will be worked out for development of cooperation between government organizations operating in water supply, sanitation and communal services in Central Asia, supporting long-term initiatives, and solving problems in the region.