A roundtable discussion on the current issues of rational use of water resources and preservation of glaciers in Central Asia was held online on January 19, 2022, IICA reports.

The event was organized by the International Institute for Central Asia and the National Academy of Sciences of the Republic of Tajikistan.

The roundtable discussion was attended by more than 30 specialists from leading analytical and research structures of Central Asia and Israel, as well as experts from the International Fund for Saving the Aral Sea.

The event consisted of 2 thematic sessions covering issues of rational use of water resources in Central Asia and prospects for cooperation between the countries of the region on glacier preservation.

Participants noted an increase in temperature by another 1.6-2.6 degrees, which is projected by 2030-2050, which will increase the existing water shortage, especially against the background of population growth, industrial production and agricultural development. It was emphasized that in the current unfavorable conditions for the region, the development of joint actions should contribute to improving the water management and environmental situation on the territory of all Central Asian states.

In this context, the urgency of building up close cooperation between government and academic structures of the countries of the region on water conservation and glacier preservation was emphasized.

Participants analyzed in detail the current climatic situation in the region and its negative impact on glaciers and water resources, identified priority issues requiring attention, and made proposals that would contribute to improving the water management and environmental situation on the territory of all Central Asian states.

UzA