Ministry of Water Resources of the Republic of Uzbekistan

During a meeting with Ebubekir Gizligider, Deputy Minister of Agriculture and Forestry of Türkiye, the parties discussed the implementation of the Joint Program for 2026–2027 signed between the two ministries in October this year.

To accelerate the program's implementation, it was proposed to invite Turkish specialists to Uzbekistan and send Uzbek specialists to Türkiye for experience exchange, as well as to establish cooperation between research institutions of the two countries.

In talks with Mehmet Akif Balta, Director General of Türkiye's General Directorate of State Hydraulic Works (DSI), discussions focused on developing water-saving technologies, digital water metering, and monitoring systems.

The Uzbek side put forward initiatives to implement a joint pilot project on closed-pipe and metered irrigation systems, establish a technical working group, and exchange expertise on dam safety and early warning systems.

Mehmet Akif Balta accepted an invitation to visit Uzbekistan. Rustam Karshiyev, in turn, was invited to the XX World Water Congress of the International Water Resources Association (IWRA), scheduled to take place in Istanbul in October 2027.

At a meeting with Mark Smith, Director General of the International Water Management Institute (IWMI), the sides discussed the outcomes and future prospects of the institute's 25-year cooperation in Uzbekistan.

They reviewed opportunities to implement joint projects funded by the institute and international donors focused on introducing water-saving technologies, digitalizing water accounting, and providing professional development for specialists.

Mark Smith agreed to participate as a speaker at a side event to be hosted by the Ministry of Water Resources of Uzbekistan during the UN Water Conference in Abu Dhabi this December.

In a meeting with Steliana Nedera, Manager of the UNDP Istanbul Regional Hub, the sides discussed implementing the Uzbekistan–Türkiye Joint Program in partnership with the UNDP Country Office in Uzbekistan, including funding for specialist exchanges.

Steliana Nedera expressed support for the initiative and instructed hub specialists to study the matter thoroughly.

The meetings offered a valuable opportunity to advance joint initiatives aimed at improving water resources management, introducing modern technologies, and expanding scientific and practical cooperation in Uzbekistan.

Press Service of the Ministry of Water Resources