Kyrgyzstan reduces water supply to Uzbekistan

Kyrgyz Prime Minister Akylbek Japarov recently addressed the Kyrgyz Parliament, the Jogorku Kenesh, regarding the ongoing efforts to protect Issyk-Kul Lake, according to 24.kg.

In response to concerns raised by Deputy Balbak Tulobayev about the lake’s decreasing water levels, Japarov announced the development of a national program aimed at conserving Issyk-Kul.

Japarov explained that water from sources like Qorqiri and the Kochkor River, which once fed the lake, is now being diverted for agricultural use. The Kyrgyz government plans to share its conservation strategy at an upcoming international conference, where scientists worldwide are invited to contribute. "Issyk-Kul should not follow the fate of the Aral Sea," Japarov emphasized.

To safeguard Issyk-Kul, Kyrgyzstan is considering reducing its water supply to neighboring countries, including Uzbekistan and Kazakhstan. According to Japarov, discussions are ongoing to clarify Kyrgyzstan’s conservation priorities and secure regional cooperation on water distribution adjustments.

This announcement follows recent comments from Kyrgyz President Sadyr Japarov at the COP-29 climate conference, where he highlighted the risk of conflicts arising from global water shortages exacerbated by climate change.