Bishkek, April 3, 2025. /Kabar /. On average, annual damage from climate change in Kyrgyzstan is estimated at $30-50 million, Secretary of the Security Council Marat Imankulov told during the round table “Water diplomacy in Central Asia in the context of the water and energy crisis: problems and solutions”. He added that in the future, if current trends continue, this figure could reach $1 billion.
"A small amount of snowfall in winter significantly affects the reserves of water resources and glaciers, and severe frosts lead to an additional burden on the energy complex and unplanned depletion of water reserves. Of course, this affects all of Central Asia," he noted.
Imankulov cited the conclusions and forecasts of scientists that the need for water resources used for agriculture could increase by 30% by 2030.
"This will also negatively affect economic indicators and the level of income of citizens. Already now, due to the deficit and inefficient use of water resources, Central Asian countries are losing up to $2 billion annually. In recent years, the Central Asian region has experienced abnormally hot weather, which leads to drought and "burnout" of the crop," the head of the Security Council said. He also emphasized that some existing water management mechanisms no longer meet the realities of the present time and do not satisfy the needs of Central Asian countries. "In particular, our country does not yet receive adequate compensation for the accumulation and conservation of water resources. This thesis was also voiced by our president back in 2022. At the same time, it was proposed to jointly develop mutually beneficial water use algorithms so that the upstream countries would have the opportunity and interest to accumulate water resources for irrigation needs during the growing season for several years in advance, regardless of water content," he emphasized.
The event was organized by the Oi Ordo Center for Expert Initiatives.