President of Uzbekistan Shavkat Mirziyoyev has reviewed a comprehensive presentation of strategic projects planned for implementation during the country's upcoming presidency of the International Fund for Saving the Aral Sea (IFAS) for 2027–2029. The initiatives are designed to address escalating water scarcity and ecological challenges across the region.
Key Takeaways: A total of 133 projects worth $3.3 billion have been developed covering water resources and environmental sectors. Funding is expected to be secured through the World Bank, Asian Development Bank, European Bank for Reconstruction and Development, and other global funds.
The proposed program entails the modernization of water management infrastructure, the deployment of automated accounting systems, and the enhancement of drinking water accessibility for local populations. Additionally, a regional digital platform will be established to monitor hydro-meteorological conditions and provide early warnings for droughts and floods.
The President instructed officials to approve a detailed monthly roadmap for next year and to engage international experts, alongside expatriate scientists, in executing the projects. Established by Central Asian states in 1993, IFAS remains a vital mechanism for transboundary water management amid shifting climatic patterns.
During its tenure, Tashkent intends to improve the organizational framework of IFAS, foster constructive dialogue with Afghanistan, and align the fund's agenda with regional summit decisions. The National Research University "TIIAME" will serve as the core analytical platform, undergoing institutional transformation to integrate artificial intelligence and expand water-saving research.
Concluding the presentation, the President urged relevant agencies to strengthen cross-border coordination with neighboring countries and elevate regional water diplomacy to new operational standards.
Source: podrobno.uz