Turkmenistan, Uzbekistan Hold Fifth Joint Commission Meeting on Water Management in Khiva
Khiva, The Gulf Observer: The Fifth meeting of the Joint Turkmen-Uzbek Intergovernmental Commission on Water Management Issues was held on January 30 in the historic city of Khiva, reaffirming the two countries’ commitment to deepening cooperation in the water sector and beyond.
The Turkmen delegation was headed by Deputy Chairman of the Cabinet of Ministers of Turkmenistan T. Atahallyyev, while the Uzbek side was led by Advisor to the President of the Republic of Uzbekistan on Agricultural Development Sh. Ganiev. The meeting was attended by heads and representatives of relevant ministries, departments and state bodies of both countries responsible for water resources management, irrigation and environmental protection.
In their opening remarks, the co-chairs highlighted the high level of Turkmen-Uzbek relations, grounded in the principles of good neighbourliness, mutual trust, equality and respect for national interests. They underlined the shared intention to further expand and deepen constructive cooperation not only in water management, but also across economic, infrastructural and humanitarian spheres.
The parties stressed that sustainable and mutually beneficial cooperation in water resources management is of strategic importance for ensuring food security, promoting sustainable agricultural development and maintaining socio-economic stability in the region.
During the meeting, participants exchanged views on the introduction of modern technologies for rational and efficient water use, improving mechanisms for monitoring and accounting of water resources, and advancing human resource development in the water sector. Particular attention was given to climate change adaptation measures and the minimisation of related risks to ensure a stable and sustainable water supply.
Both sides reaffirmed their commitment to holding regular bilateral consultations, convening meetings of the intergovernmental commission, organising joint events, and further strengthening the legal and institutional framework underpinning bilateral cooperation.
The meeting was held in a constructive and business-like atmosphere, reflecting the consistent and systematic nature of the Turkmen-Uzbek strategic dialogue. At its conclusion, the parties signed the Protocol of the Fifth meeting of the Joint Turkmen-Uzbek Intergovernmental Commission on Water Management Issues.
