Kazakhstan to Boost Cooperation with International Fund to Save Aral Sea
Kazakh Deputy Foreign Minister Yermukhambet Konuspayev recently met with Askhat Orazbay, the chair of the International Fund for Saving the Aral Sea (IFAS) executive committee, to discuss their cooperation plan. The meeting focused on the outcomes of Kazakhstan’s first year as chair of IFAS, the work of the executive committee, and urgent topics on the organization’s agenda.
According to the officials, IFAS plays a crucial role in regulating water management, water-energy, and environmental aspects of regional development in the Aral Sea basin. Orazbay highlighted the progress made in promoting Kazakhstan’s chairmanship priorities, implementing environmental projects and programs, and expanding IFAS’ international relations.
After the IFAS Summit in Dushanbe in September 2023, Konuspayev and Orazbay agreed to enhance the organization’s activities and address the tasks and instructions given by the heads of state. Kazakhstan assumed the chairmanship of IFAS on January 1 last year for the 2024-2026 term, with the approval of the work plan for the first year of Kazakhstan’s chairmanship in September 2024. The collaboration between Kazakhstan and IFAS is essential for addressing the environmental challenges facing the Aral Sea region and promoting sustainable development in the area.
