The Ministry of Water Resources and Irrigation intends to resolve the issue of sharing the waters of transboundary rivers within the framework of the Convention on the Law of Non-Navigational Uses of International Watercourses. The Senate of the Parliament of the Republic of Kazakhstan approved the law on ratification of the international convention.

The Convention is an international instrument that ensures the equitable distribution of transboundary rivers, lakes and associated groundwater, and also regulates their use. Currently, 37 states are parties to the Convention.

The international agreement creates mechanisms for interstate cooperation to resolve potential watershed-related disputes and develop water resources in the interests of all parties.

In accordance with the Convention, a watercourse State takes the necessary measures not to cause harm to other States when using an international watercourse on its territory. It also regularly shares available data on water flow, water quality and related forecasts. In addition, watercourse states consult each other and negotiate on the impact of planned activities on the international watercourse.

“The Convention defines measures for the construction of hydraulic structures. Namely, construction is not authorized without the consent of the interested parties. Following these principles, coordinated implementation of water management activities will be ensured within the framework of cooperation with neighboring states. In addition, the ministry will resolve the issue of sharing the waters of transboundary rivers through the interstate water commission,” said First Vice-Minister of Water Resources and Irrigation of the Republic of Kazakhstan Bolat Bekniyaz.