Water diplomacy has moved to the forefront. Kazakhstan presented the UAE with President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev’s initiative to establish an International Water Organization ahead of a major UN conference in Abu Dhabi, DKNews.kz reports.
The issue was discussed during a meeting between Rauan Zhumabek, Ambassador of the Republic of Kazakhstan to the UAE, and Abdulla Ahmed Balalaa, UAE Assistant Minister of Foreign Affairs for Energy and Sustainability.
Kazakhstan Advances Proposal for an International Water Organization
Rauan Zhumabek briefed the Emirati side on President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev’s initiative to establish an International Water Organization within the framework of the UN80 reform process.
Kazakhstan links the proposal to improving global water governance and strengthening international cooperation in this field.
For Kazakhstan, the water agenda has a clear international dimension. The proposal envisages a dedicated mechanism that would operate not only at the national or regional level, but within a broader system of cooperation among states.
Abu Dhabi to Host UN Water Conference on December 8–10
Abdulla Ahmed Balalaa provided an update on preparations for the 2026 United Nations Water Conference, which will be held in Abu Dhabi from December 8 to 10.
One of the conference’s key objectives is to accelerate progress toward Sustainable Development Goal 6, which focuses on access to water and sanitation and the sustainable management of water resources.
The agenda also includes mobilizing partnerships, attracting investment, and advancing practical solutions in the field of water security.
Kazakhstan and UAE Seek Closer Coordination on Global Platforms
Following the talks, the sides noted that Kazakhstan and the UAE share broadly similar and complementary approaches to developing international cooperation in the water sector.
Astana and Abu Dhabi confirmed their interest in further strengthening bilateral cooperation and coordinating efforts on international platforms on sustainable water management.
The next major international platform for Kazakhstan’s initiative is already in sight: the UN Water Conference will take place in Abu Dhabi on December 8–10.
