“Undoubtedly, Korean water technologies are rightfully recognized as among the most advanced in the world, and today we witnessed this firsthand. I hope that these technologies will find their application in the development of effective measures in Kazakhstan’s water sector. It is important to understand that sustainable technologies make it possible to simultaneously address the provision of clean water to the population, the protection of ecosystems, and adaptation to climate change. For Kazakhstan, this is of critical importance, as water resources form the foundation of food security, agricultural development, and the well-being of future generations,” said Yerlan Zhumabayev, Director of the Country Office of the Regional Environmental Centre for Central Asia (CAREC) in the Republic of Kazakhstan, commenting on the outcomes of the Kazakh-Korean seminar on water resources management.
The seminar was held on 3 September 2025 in Astana, bringing together more than 80 representatives of government bodies, research institutions, specialized organizations, and companies from Kazakhstan and the Republic of Korea.
The purpose of the seminar was to exchange knowledge and technologies, as well as to strengthen partnerships between the two countries to address pressing issues of water use, transboundary water protection, and the minimization of environmental risks.
Special attention was paid to issues of inefficient water use, pollution, outdated water management technologies, and water scarcity. These challenges are directly linked to ecosystem degradation, desertification, and climate change, making them key to sustainable development in Kazakhstan and the entire region.
During the program, representatives of the Ministry of Water Resources and Irrigation of the Republic of Kazakhstan, the Ministry of Industry and Construction of the Republic of Kazakhstan, and the Ministry of Environment of the Republic of Korea presented their national strategies in the field of water management. Kazakh companies and organizations such as Kazvodkhoz, Astana Su Arnasy, and the Center for Modernization and Development shared their experience in implementing projects in the country. Korean companies and corporations, including K-water and KWP, showcased advanced solutions in water purification, the introduction of water-saving technologies, and water quality monitoring systems.
The seminar emphasized the strategic importance of international cooperation in addressing environmental challenges. The use of innovative technologies and the development of joint projects with the Republic of Korea create opportunities for a sustainable water sector in Kazakhstan, strengthening regional environmental security, and advancing the green economy.
For additional information:
Yerlan Zhumabayev – Director of CAREC Country Office in the Republic of Kazakhstan, kazakhstan@carececo.org