Kazakhstan and UN Discuss Water Security and New International Organization

On April 15, 2026, Kazakhstan's Minister of Foreign Affairs, Yermek Kosherbayev, held talks with the UN Secretary-General's Special Envoy on Water, Retno Marsudi.

During the meeting, Minister Kosherbayev emphasized the importance of the Special Envoy's mandate in light of growing global challenges to water security. He noted that undermining this security could act as a catalyst for economic, environmental, and social crises.

The Foreign Minister highlighted the significance of Ms. Marsudi's visit ahead of the Regional Environmental Summit in Astana. He stated that water security issues would receive special attention during this upcoming event.

In this context, Kosherbayev detailed an initiative by President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev to establish an International Water Organization under the auspices of the UN. The proposal is gaining particular relevance against a backdrop of increasing threats to global peace and security linked to potential conflicts over access to water resources.

Following their discussions, both sides agreed to continue constructive dialogue on global and regional water-related agendas. This cooperation will also take place through the UN Regional Centre for Sustainable Development located in Almaty.