Kazakhstan and the UAE strengthen cooperation on global water governance, reaffirming support for sustainable water management and closer coordination ahead of the 2026 UN Water Conference.
The two nations Kazakhstan and United Arab Emirates have reiterated their determination towards enhancing international collaboration in sustainable water management in preparation for the 2026 United Nations Water Conference. The discussions reflect the increasing significance of water security and international collaboration in tackling environmental and developmental issues.
The pledge was further emphasized during the discussion between the Ambassador of Kazakhstan to the UAE, Mr. Rauan Zhumabek and Assistant Minister of Foreign Affairs for Energy and Sustainability of the UAE, Mr. Abdulla Ahmed Balalaa. This discussion highlighted the importance of fostering coordination in international forums regarding water issues.
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Based on the information provided by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Kazakhstan, both parties recognized the common positions regarding the necessity of enhancing international cooperation in the field of sustainable water resources management held by Kazakhstan and the United Arab Emirates. They reiterated their willingness to deepen their collaboration within the framework of bilateral and multilateral cooperation in the sphere of water management.
During the discussion, Ambassador Zhumabek brought up the proposition made by President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev for the formation of the International Organization for Water in the context of UN80 reform. The idea seeks to enhance global collaboration concerning the issue of water governance and promote international cooperation.
The Balalaa informed the Kazakhstan delegation about preparations for the Third United Nations Water Conference that is supposed to take place in Abu Dhabi between December 8 and December 10, 2026. The conference will be held under the co-sponsorship of the United Arab Emirates and Senegal and will see the participation of international figures who will seek to make progress towards the realization of SDG 6.
These talks also highlighted the need for encouraging innovation and partnership in building resilience to water. In both countries, it was clear that good water governance was key to sustainable development, adapting to climate change, and securing the environment.
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There has been an increasing trend of water diplomacy in Kazakhstan on account of its international diplomacy policy, calling for increased multilateralism in tackling transboundary water issues in the world. On the other hand, the UAE has taken the mantle of being one of the strongest champions of water management in the world by hosting the UN Water Conference.
The discussions ended with both parties restating their commitment to the continuation of coordination and cooperation on the issue of water security. Through coordinating their efforts before the 2026 UN Water Conference, Kazakhstan and the United Arab Emirates intend to help strengthen global partnerships and proper governance of one of the most vital natural resources of the planet.