The Fourth International High-Level Conference on the International Decade for Action “Water for Sustainable Development, 2018–2028,” organized by the Government of the Republic of Tajikistan jointly with the United Nations and international partners, concluded in Dushanbe.

The Prime Minister of the Republic of Tajikistan and Chairman of the National Organizing Committee, Kokhir Rasulzoda, announced this at a press conference following the conference on May 27, NIAT Khovar reports.

According to the Prime Minister, over the course of several days, Dushanbe has become a global platform for discussing pressing water and climate issues, strengthening international cooperation, and promoting joint action in sustainable water resource management.

Conference participants paid special attention to promoting the goals of the International Decade for Action “Water for Sustainable Development, 2018–2028”, as well as accelerating the achievement of Sustainable Development Goal 6 in preparation for the 2026 UN Water Conference.

The discussions focused on issues of sustainable and integrated water resources management, ensuring public access to water and sanitation, strengthening international, regional, and transboundary cooperation, and expanding partnerships to implement the global water agenda.

Kokhir Rasulzoda noted that during thematic sessions and special panel discussions, participants discussed the implementation of voluntary commitments, financing issues, technology implementation and innovation, as well as the relationship between the water agenda and climate, sustainable development, ecosystems, and UN multilateral processes.

Particular attention, he said, was paid to promoting inclusive approaches and expanding the participation of women, youth, representatives of the scientific community, the private sector, and other stakeholders in implementing the international water agenda.

The conference also included a youth forum, a women and water forum, a private sector forum with a focus on Africa, and other events that allowed a wide range of participants to contribute to the discussion of ways to accelerate the achievement of the goals of the International Water Action Decade.

A key element of the conference was a special exhibition that showcased modern technologies, scientific developments, innovative solutions, and best practices in water resource management and water issues.

As the Prime Minister emphasized, water resource issues are directly linked to sustainable development, economic growth, food and energy security, environmental protection, and the well-being of the population. The conference brought together high-level representatives of UN Member States, UN system entities, international and regional organizations, international financial institutions, the scientific community, civil society, the private sector, youth, and other stakeholders.

According to the organizers, more than 2,500 people took part in the event, including 1,100 foreign participants from 110 countries, representatives of 75 international and regional organizations, as well as 170 non-governmental organizations and academic institutions.

According to Kokhir Rasulzoda, this confirms the high international interest in the Dushanbe Water Process and its recognition as an important platform for advancing the global water agenda.

Following the conference, the Dushanbe Declaration was adopted. Additionally, a Co-Chairs’ Summary and the Dushanbe Water Process’s contribution to the 2026 UN Water Conference will be prepared and presented.

As the Prime Minister noted, these documents contain key recommendations and practical guidelines aimed at strengthening international cooperation, promoting partnerships, and accelerating the implementation of commitments in the area of ​​water resources.

Kokhir Rasulzoda expressed confidence that the results of the conference will make a significant contribution to the further implementation of the International Decade for Action “Water for Sustainable Development, 2018–2028”, as well as to the preparatory process for the 2026 UN Water Conference and the final UN Water Conference in 2028.

He also noted that the conference received extensive media coverage, allowing an international audience to become familiar with the key outcomes and initiatives presented in Dushanbe. According to the Prime Minister, Tajikistan, as an active supporter of the water and climate agenda, intends to continue its efforts to strengthen international cooperation and achieve common sustainable development goals.

Source: https://en.avesta.tj/2026/05/28/dushanbe-has-become-a-global-platform-for-the-water-agenda-rasulzoda/ Avesta.tj – All rights reserved.