Tashkent to Bring Regional Leaders Together to Address Water Scarcity in Central Asia

Central Asia is facing an increasing shortage of water resources driven by climate change, growing demand for water supply and irrigation, and the rising needs of both population growth and economic development. These pressures place additional strain on the agricultural sector and highlight the urgent need for rational and sustainable water use. Under these conditions, effective water resource management has become a strategic priority, directly influencing regional cooperation and Central Asia’s role within the global water cycle.

A response to these challenges will come through the International Forum: Tashkent Water Week, to be held on 25–26 March 2026 in Tashkent. Initiated and organised by the Government of the Republic of Uzbekistan and convened in this format for the first time, the Forum will offer a unique platform for experience-sharing, discussion of innovative approaches, and the development of joint strategies for sustainable water resource management.

The Forum programme, themed “Technologies and Innovations in Water Resource Management. Central Asia and the Global Water Cycle,” will feature high-level plenary and panel sessions. Discussions will focus on water and sustainable development, trust-building, and the search for joint solutions. Particular attention will be given to transboundary water cooperation and interstate coordination, as well as sustainable water use and the development of resilient agricultural systems.

Participants will examine technological and digital innovations in water supply, global trends and key challenges in water governance, the role of water in ensuring food security, and the strengthening of cross-sectoral cooperation. Additional topics will include the implementation of green standards, sustainable land use practices, human capital development, and the training of qualified professionals for the water sector.

Complementing the Forum’s strategic agenda, the Tashkent Water Week will also host the Tashkent Water Security Conference and an Academic Competition – the International Subject Olympiad in Water Management Disciplines, strengthening the link between strategic dialogue, scientific expertise, and the development of a new generation of water professionals.

Tashkent Water Week 2026 will bring together government authorities, international organisations, leading scientists, businesses, and the expert community, providing a comprehensive platform to address transboundary water security challenges, showcase innovative governance and technological solutions, and develop practical strategies for the rational use of water resources. The Forum aims to strengthen regional cooperation and promote sustainable water use models, contributing to Central Asia’s long-term water resilience and economic development.

In recent years, countries across the region have hosted numerous international conferences, consultative meetings, and expert dialogues focused on the efficient use and conservation of water resources. In this context, Tashkent Water Week 2026 is designed to complement and build on the existing formats of cooperation by establishing a multilateral platform for experience exchange and discussing modern approaches to water governance on the regional and global level.

For more information on participation in the Forum, please visit the official website:
www.tashkentwaterweek.uz
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