Within the framework of the 4th High-Level International Conference on the International Decade for Action “Water for Sustainable Development” 2018–2028, a side event titled “Scientific Foundations for Glacier Monitoring in Central Asia for Sustainable Water Resources Management” was held as the 5th meeting of the Regional Working Group on Glacier Monitoring and Modelling in Central Asia. The event was organized by the Agency for Hydrometeorology of the Committee for Environmental Protection under the Government of the Republic of Tajikistan, with the support of the GIZ within the framework of the regional GCA programme and the EU4Sustainable Central Asia project. The platform aimed to strengthen regional scientific and expert dialogue, as well as to enhance coordination among Central Asian states in the comprehensive study of the cryosphere, glacier system monitoring, and the advancement of methodological frameworks for water resource forecasting under conditions of ongoing climate change.
During the discussions, participants emphasized the strategic importance of Central Asian glaciers as a key source of transboundary water resources and a critical factor underpinning water, energy, and environmental security in the region. Particular attention was given to the need to further develop scientifically grounded approaches to glacier monitoring and modelling, strengthen data exchange among national hydrometeorological services, and expand regional cooperation in climate-related research. It was highlighted that the consolidation of efforts among the scientific community, governmental institutions, and international partners contributes to improving the accuracy of hydrological forecasts and establishing a robust evidence base for informed decision-making in water resources management, thereby ultimately supporting the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals and enhancing regional resilience to climate change challenges.