The second consultative meeting of Central Asian countries dedicated to the Aral Sea basin took place in Turkmenistan on September 11–12. Representatives of state structures, as well as specialists from international and regional organizations, experts in water resources, ecological sustainability, and water diplomacy, participated in the dialogue.
Participants discussed issues of sustainable water resource management, restoration of natural ecosystems, ensuring water security, and developing cross-border cooperation. Special attention was paid to developing a unified regional approach for implementing the UN Special Programme for the Aral Sea basin and coordinating further joint activities.
As part of the 'Aral Sea Wetlands' initiative, Uzbekistan is promoting methods aimed at restoring ecosystems in the Aral Sea region, ensuring sustainable use of natural resources, and supporting the livelihoods of local communities.
Participants also emphasized the need to maintain cooperation, strengthen trust, and seek joint solutions to ensure the ecological sustainability of the entire Aral Sea region.