Dushanbe conference concludes with strong global call for “Water Cooperation, Sustainable Development”

Dushanbe, (APP - UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 27th May, 2026) Fourth High-Level International Conference on the International Decade for Action “Water for Sustainable Development” 2018–2028 concluded successfully in Dushanbe, bringing together world leaders, international organizations, scientists, youth representatives, and development partners to strengthen global cooperation on water and climate challenges.

The high-level conference was organized by the Government of the Republic of Tajikistan in cooperation with the United Nations and international partners.

The concluding Press Conference was co-chaired by Qohir Rasulzoda, Prime Minister of the Republic of Tajikistan and Chairman of the National Organizing Committee,and United Nations Under-Secretary-General Li Junhua here in Dushambe on Wednesday,

Speaking at the closing press conference in Dushanbe, Prime Minister Qohir Rasulzoda announced the adoption of the Dushanbe Declaration and described the conference as an important global platform for addressing pressing water and climate issues.

“During these days, Dushanbe once again became a global platform for discussing pressing issues of the water and climate agenda, strengthening international cooperation, and promoting joint action in the field of sustainable water resources management,” Rasulzoda said.

The conference programme featured plenary sessions, thematic discussions, special panel meetings, forums, side events, and exhibitions focused on key aspects of the global water agenda. Particular attention was devoted to advancing the objectives of the International Decade for Action “Water for Sustainable Development, 2018–2028” and accelerating the implementation of Sustainable Development Goal 6 ahead of the 2026 United Nations Water Conference.

Discussions centered on sustainable and integrated water resources management, universal access to water and sanitation, regional and transboundary cooperation, financing, technological innovation, and the relationship between water, climate change, ecosystems, food security, and sustainable development, he said.

According to the Prime Minister, the conference also emphasized inclusive participation, encouraging the involvement of women, youth, the scientific community, the private sector, and civil society in shaping the international water agenda.

He said that Several forums held during the conference, including the Youth Forum, Women and Water Forum, Private Sector Forum, and Africa-focused Forum , provided stakeholders with opportunities to contribute ideas and recommendations aimed at accelerating the goals of the Water Action Decade.

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A special exhibition showcased modern technologies, scientific achievements, innovative solutions, and best practices related to water resource management and water-related challenges.

“We have once again reaffirmed that water issues are directly linked to sustainable development, economic growth, food and energy security, environmental protection, and the well-being of populations,” Rasulzoda stated.

Qohir Rasulzoda, Prime Minister of the Republic of Tajikistan said the conference attracted approximately 2,500 participants, including 1,100 international delegates from 110 countries, representatives of 75 international and regional organizations, and more than 170 NGOs and academic institutions.

Tajik Prime Minister said the strong international participation reflected growing global recognition of the Dushanbe Water Process as a key platform for advancing the international water agenda.

As a major outcome of the conference, the Dushanbe Declaration was officially adopted. In addition, the Co-Chairs’ Summary and the contribution of the Dushanbe Water Process to the 2026 United Nations Water Conference will be prepared and presented in the coming months, he said.

He said that these documents are expected to provide practical recommendations aimed at strengthening international cooperation, expanding partnerships, and accelerating the implementation of global water commitments.

Prime Minister Rasulzoda expressed confidence that the conference outcomes would significantly contribute to the implementation of the International Decade for Action “Water for Sustainable Development,” as well as preparations for the 2026 United Nations Water Conference and the final review conference in 2028.

United Nations Under-Secretary-General Li Junhua thanked all participants, international partners, the National Organizing Committee, the International Advisory Committee, members of the UN Group of Friends of Water, and the Conference Secretariat for their contributions toward the successful organization of the event.

The Government of Tajikistan reaffirmed its commitment to promoting international cooperation on water and climate issues and pledged to continue supporting global efforts aimed at achieving sustainable development goals.