President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev underscored the critical state of the Aral Sea during his address at the 5th meeting of the National Kurultai, calling the environmental recovery of the region a task for all of humanity.
Speaking in the region most directly impacted by the ecological disaster, the President highlighted the necessity of proactive “water diplomacy” and enhanced international cooperation to manage Central Asia’s dwindling water resources.
President Tokayev noted that consistent efforts over the years have yielded tangible results, specifically in the preservation of the Northern Aral Sea.
“Thanks to years of consistent work, we have been able to save the North Aral, which has been gradually recovering for several years,” Tokayev stated.
He said that a project is currently being developed to raise the Kokaral dam, the implementation of which will begin at the end of 2026. This will significantly increase the volume of water in the Small (Northern) Aral Sea.
While domestic projects are vital, the President acknowledged that Kazakhstan’s water security is inextricably linked to its neighbors. Most of the country’s major rivers, including the Syr Darya, originate outside its borders.
“The solution to many problems lies in skillful water diplomacy,” Tokayev said.
He reminded the assembly that while agreements are in place with all Central Asian neighbors, further consensus is required to protect not only the Aral but also the Caspian Sea, Lake Balkhash, and the Irtysh River.
President Tokayev reaffirmed that water is a strategic resource for Kazakhstan and called for a systemic global approach. He reiterated his proposal to establish an International Water Organization, urging that the initiative be promoted as part of the ongoing reform of the United Nations.
Key upcoming events include:
- International Environmental Summit: Scheduled for April 2026 in Astana.
- Agenda: Discussions with heads of state from the International Fund for Saving the Aral Sea (IFAS).
“We hope that the revival of the Small Aral will pave the way for further sustainable progress across the entire region,” Tokayev concluded.
The President’s remarks were part of a broader agenda at the National Kurultai, where various pillars of national development were discussed. ///nCa, 21 January 2026