Approaches to water conflict prevention, especially in the Central Asia region, were at the heart of the conference "Water Unites – New Perspectives for Cooperation and Security", which took place on April 1 at the Berlin Foreign Office. In his opening remarks, Foreign Minister Frank-Walter Steinmeier made clear that "Central Asia is a real case-study in the problems posed – particularly with regard to drinking water – experiencing a combination of water shortages, overexploitation of resources and environmental degradation. […] So water can and must – in Central Asia especially – become a reason to intensify regional cooperation." As cornerstones of a Central Asia Water Initiative, he named among others the transfer and facilitation of knowledge and expertise, a better network of water professionals, as well as support for cross-border water management.



Further contributions of the UNECE's Secretary General but also the Central Asia representative, among others, highlighted the complexities of this challenge. Different sectors such as energy, economy, agriculture, environment, and social policy are affected. This becomes apparent in the central question of how a possible balance between interests in hydropower generation and agricultural irrigation could be achieved. Regional environmental migration due to drought and salinisation of agricultural lands was also brought into the discussion. In terms of solutions, the importance of regional cooperation as well as the cooperation between the EU and Central Asia was emphasized. This applies to the implementation of measures toward efficient water and energy use. Support will also be needed for strengthening legislation, institutional capacity building, and training for professionals. The follow up meeting this fall will promote specific projects. This "Central Asia Water Initiative" will not only contribute to the implementation of the EU Central Asia strategy but also support the work of regionally active international organizations. (Anja Wittich)



Further information on the conference and the Central Asia Water Initiative as well as the speech of Foreign Minister Frank-Walter Steinmeier can be found (in German) here

 

Published in: ECC-Newsletter, June 2008