Central Asia – On November 8 a teleconference on "Water Security in Central Asia: International Legal Aspects" was held with the participation of representatives from the L.N. Gumilyov Eurasian National University (ENU) (Department of Regional Studies), the Academy of Public Administration (APA) under the President of the Republic of Tajikistan (Department of International Law), and Fergana State University (Department of Sociology). The teleconference was organized by the L.N. Gumilyov ENU jointly with the APA under the President of the Republic of Tajikistan with the support of the Regional Environmental Centre for Central Asia (CAREC).
During the meeting, the participants discussed the importance of efficient water use and transboundary water cooperation in Central Asia. Thus, the role of water diplomacy in preserving stability in the region was noted and future plans for its development were outlined.
"Without efficient use of water or other resources, acute deficit of water, food, etc. may emerge by 2050. Therefore, in the future we should come to a common understanding between our countries," said Bakhodirjon Ganiev, Doctor of Philosophy, Professor, Head of the Sociology Department of Fergana State University.
University representatives emphasized mutual respect and understanding between the countries of the region as one of the most important elements for the development of cooperation. The role of the Network of Academic Societies (NAS) in strengthening relations between the countries and solving the issue of water supply in Central Asian countries was also highlighted.
"It is the academic community that can give impetus to solving the water issue and strengthening transboundary water cooperation in the region in terms of science. Therefore, it is important to interact and cooperate within this network and strive to find a common solution for all" said Aigerim Ospanova, PhD, Professor, Head of the Regional Studies Department, Faculty of International Relations, L.N. Gumilyov ENU.
In addition, the participants shared their own training and research experience in promoting water diplomacy. Training courses, disciplines, as well as dissertation works on the topic were presented.
"In our academy, research and dissertations on transboundary watercourses regulation and water security are underway. Also, at the moment, we are actively working to introduce educational disciplines on international water law and water diplomacy" said Alisher Saidmukhtorov, Head of the International Law Department, APA under the President of the Republic of Tajikistan.
At the end of the meeting, the participants thanked each other for the fruitful dialog, as well as the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) and the CAREC for the opportunity to cooperate and develop together.
Additional information: Ludmila Kiktenko, Environmental Management Programme’s Manager, CAREC, lkiktenko@carececo.org
