Kazakhstan is progressing in its efforts to preserve the Aral Sea
The ecological crisis in the Aral Sea basin manifests as dwindling and polluted water sources, land degradation, desertification, loss of forests and biodiversity, and the emergence of the vast Aralkum desert covering over 54,000 square kilometers.
In the face of these challenges, it is crucial for Central Asian States to establish new mechanisms for regional cooperation. Kazakhstan's chairmanship in the International Fund for Saving the Aral Sea (IFAS) aims to enhance collaboration on the integrated management and conservation of water resources, tackle environmental concerns, address socio-economic aspects, and promote elements of a green economy across Central Asian countries.
Enhancing regional cooperation with international development partners, UN agencies, financial institutions, and the donor community is paramount. It is crucial to step up efforts within the framework of internationally recognized environmental conventions, action plans, declarations, and joint statements. Kazakhstan pledges to implement the directives and agreements from the IFAS Summit held last year, as well as previously established agreements, to ensure consistency in Central Asia's actions toward achieving the global Sustainable Development Goals and fostering its unity as a region.
