Central Asian nations launch new scientific initiative on water diplomacy

ASHGABAT, Turkmenistan (MNTV) — Representatives from Central Asian countries recently convened online to address regional water policy challenges, focusing on the International Water Management Institute’s (IWMI) proposed project, “Scientific-Political Dialogue on Water Diplomacy in Central Asia: Promoting Knowledge-Based Scientific Diplomacy.” Barbara Janusz-Pawletta, head of IWMI’s Uzbekistan office, introduced the initiative, which seeks to enhance scientific and technical cooperation in water resource management.

Scheduled for implementation from 2025 to 2029, the project aims to create a sustainable platform for regional collaboration on critical water-related issues, including climate change impacts, water quality, and the ecological health of river systems. By fostering a science-policy dialogue, the initiative aligns with Central Asia’s priorities in sustainable development and environmental protection.

The project plans to engage national research institutes, water management authorities, and strategic policy institutions from all Central Asian countries. This collaborative approach is expected to strengthen regional cooperation and ensure long-term water security in the Aral Sea basin. By integrating scientific research with policy-making, the initiative aims to promote sustainable water diplomacy and resilience against shared environmental challenges.

This effort builds upon previous initiatives, such as the Blue Peace Central Asia program, which has been working to improve transboundary water cooperation among Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, and Uzbekistan. These programs collectively aim to foster equitable and effective management of shared water resources, benefiting all nations involved. 

The recent online meeting provided a platform for experts to exchange perspectives on the project’s potential impact, emphasizing the importance of integrating scientific research into policy-making to address the region’s water challenges effectively.

By consolidating expertise across scientific and political domains, the IWMI project represents a significant step toward sustainable water diplomacy, fostering good-neighborly relations and resilience against shared environmental challenges.