Kazakhstan finalizes transboundary water agreements with all neighbors
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Kazakhstan has finalized international documents on transboundary waters with all neighboring states, the Ministry of Water Resources and Irrigation reported. The milestone follows the ratification of a water management agreement with Uzbekistan in June 2026. The country now has a full legal framework for shared water resources across its borders.
Legal Framework Completion
Kazakhstan has finalized transboundary water agreements with all neighboring states, the Ministry of Water Resources and Irrigation announced. The last document was completed after the Majilis ratified a water management pact with Uzbekistan in June 2026. The agreement, signed on November 15, 2025, during President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev's state visit to Tashkent, establishes a joint commission and an automated water accounting system.
Aral Sea Leadership
Kazakhstan chairs the International Fund for Saving the Aral Sea (IFAS), a role it assumed in 2024. On March 30, 2026, the IFAS board met in Astana, followed by a Council of Heads of State meeting on April 22, chaired by President Tokayev. The leaders signed the Astana Declaration and designated March 26 as International Day of the Aral Sea, Amu Darya and Syr Darya rivers. Over 30 regional projects worth more than $2 billion are being implemented under Kazakhstan's chairmanship.
Water Diplomacy
Kazakhstan continues active engagement within the Interstate Coordination Water Commission. At its 92nd meeting on February 20, 2026, in Dushanbe, Minister of Water Resources and Irrigation Nurzhan Nurzhigitov agreed on water withdrawal limits for the upcoming growing season. The ministry emphasized that the completed legal framework supports President Tokayev's directive to strengthen water security through balanced policies and mutually beneficial solutions with neighbors.
What's Next
Kazakhstan will focus on implementing the signed agreements and monitoring water use through the new joint mechanisms. It remains unclear how the frameworks will function during potential water scarcity periods, given the region's growing demand and climate pressures.
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Kazakhstan finalizes transboundary water agreements with all neighbors
