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Tokaev: Measures to strengthen water security are needed

More than 2 billion people in the world still do not have access to quality drinking water, and more than 4 billion face an acute shortage

Dec 4, 2024 13:27 158

Tokaev: Measures to strengthen water security are needed  - 1

Head of State Kasim - Jomart Tokaev made a welcome speech at the opening ceremony of the One Water Summit, which is being held in the capital of Saudi Arabia. This is reported by the Kazinform agency, referring to the press service of Acorda.

Speaking at the summit, the head of state noted that water security is the basis for sustainable development, economic progress and environmental protection.

„Over 2 billion people worldwide still lack access to quality drinking water, and more than 4 billion face acute water scarcity. Today's challenges require a united global response to ensure a sustainable future for all. I would like to take this opportunity to express my sincere gratitude to His Royal Highness for the plan he has just announced to help all regions and countries facing the problems I have mentioned. Kazakhstan, which has a huge territory and is landlocked, clearly understands the true value of water. We know first hand that water is not an infinite resource. We need to protect water like the apple of our eye, only in this way can humanity achieve sustainable progress,” he said.

Kasim-Jomart Tokaev called for joint measures aimed at strengthening water security.

„All people, especially representatives of vulnerable groups and peoples living in remote areas, have the right and must have access to safe drinking water that meets sanitary requirements. Targeted investment in climate water infrastructure can transform entire regions, providing reliable access to clean water and promoting sustainable growth. Kazakhstan's entry into the global initiative Freshwater Challenge, focused on universal access to clean water for all, confirms our country's commitment to these goals”, the president said.

According to the head of state, the protection of water sources from industrial, chemical, agricultural and domestic pollution requires the use of technological innovations and regulation. An important aspect in ensuring stable access to water is strengthening the capacity of reservoirs, preserving glaciers and introducing innovative irrigation systems.

Kassim-Jomart Tokaev proposed the creation of a partnership that would unite global research centers for the study and protection of glaciers.

„Glaciers play a vital role in the global water cycle, feeding rivers and lakes that provide water to nearly two billion people worldwide. We must conduct joint research and develop common policies to combat the disappearance of glaciers and support water management strategies in regions that need it, the president believes.

As noted, building resilience against water-related disasters is an essential component of water security. Floods and droughts affect more than 1.5 billion people worldwide each year, severely affecting the lives of vulnerable populations, especially in small islands and coastal areas. The head of state considers the strengthening of early warning systems to reduce risks and protect the population to be a priority.

Tokaev drew attention to the fact that water shortage threatens food and energy security and industrial growth. Strategic investments in water-efficient agriculture and renewable energy can improve economic sustainability while reducing pressure on the environment, he says.

„Water has no boundaries. It connects communities and ecosystems. As the chair of the International Fund for Saving the Aral Sea, Kazakhstan supports the promotion of regional cooperation and joint action. We believe it is critical that countries at the forefront of climate action expand dialogue, develop international partnerships and pool resources to implement water projects. In pursuit of these goals, Kazakhstan is today pleased to join the One Water Vision coalition, which aims to bring together stakeholders to address the global water crisis and promote integrated water resources management. As part of these efforts, Kazakhstan, with the support of the United Nations, will hold a Regional Climate Conference in 2026, he said.

The head of state reminded the participants of the forum that one of the global priorities in the field of sustainable development by 2030. are the water resources.

„Safety is not just a technical or environmental issue, it is a moral imperative. Solving the problem of water security requires the development of a multilateral dialogue based on the principle of one water. Kazakhstan is ready to contribute to the collective efforts to strengthen the global management of water resources”, Tokayev summarized his speech.

The Crown Prince, the Prime Minister of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia Mohammed bin Salman Al Saud, the President of the French Republic Emmanuel Macron, the President of the World Bank Group Ajay Banga, the Co-Chair of the Global Commission on the Economy of Water (GCEW) also spoke at the summit ) Johan Rockström, heads of state, heads of international organizations, communities and companies.