Kazakh president calls for regional program to address Caspian Sea water decline President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev on Monday called for developing an interstate program to preserve the Caspian Sea's water resources, warning that declining water levels could lead to a "large-scale environmental catastrophe" without coordinated action.Addressing parliament in his annual speech, Tokayev emphasized that the Caspian's condition affects the entire region and can only be improved through joint efforts. He instructed his government to begin developing a multinational conservation program in coordination with regional partners."The state of the Caspian concerns the fate of not just one country but the entire region, so the situation can only be corrected through joint efforts," Tokayev said. "How wisely we solve water sector problems today directly determines the fate of our children and grandchildren."The president expressed concern over the slow implementation of water-saving technologies and suggested engaging foreign companies, particularly noting China's advanced technologies. He also highlighted ongoing problems with water-intensive crops being cultivated despite known risks, unauthorized water extraction, and illegal water trading on black markets.Pointing to positive experience with the Aral Sea restoration, where Kazakhstan has worked for over 20 years, Tokayev noted that the Northern Aral's surface area has increased by 36% and water volume has nearly doubled. However, he stressed that work must continue to prevent a similar ecological crisis in the Caspian Sea. (ICE ALMATY)

Fonte notizia: Interfax