During President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev’s state visit to Uzbekistan to attend the 7th Consultative Meeting of Central Asian Leaders, the Second Meeting of the Kazakhstan–Uzbekistan High-Level Intergovernmental Council was held in Tashkent. At its conclusion, Kazakhstan’s Minister of Water Resources and Irrigation, Nurzhan Nurzhigitov, and Uzbekistan’s Minister of Water Economy, Shavkat Khamrayev, signed an intergovernmental agreement on the joint management and sustainable use of transboundary water resources, according to a statement by the Government of Kazakhstan.
The agreement establishes cooperative mechanisms for managing shared rivers and canals that supply water to populations and agricultural regions in both countries. It includes provisions for coordinated operation of shared water infrastructure, joint inspections, and preventive measures to avoid emergencies.
The two sides also agreed to develop an automated system for real-time monitoring and data exchange on water allocation and withdrawal at border sections. This system will enhance oversight of water use and strengthen trust between the respective agencies.
The document outlines joint efforts to modernize water infrastructure, reduce water losses, introduce water-saving technologies, and improve the condition of irrigated lands. Special attention is given to coordinated responses to floods, droughts, and other natural emergencies.
To implement the agreement, a Kazakhstan–Uzbekistan Intergovernmental Commission will be established, holding meetings twice a year—alternating between the two countries.
“This document is the result of years of joint work since 2017,” said Minister Nurzhigitov. “It builds on international commitments, including the 1992 Central Asian agreement on transboundary water cooperation and relevant UN conventions. The signing strengthens water security, supports agriculture, and makes a significant contribution to water diplomacy in the region.”
CentralasianLIGHT.org
November 17, 2025