Bakyt Torobaev at the forum in Dubai. Photo courtesy of the Ministry of Water Resources, Agriculture, and Processing Industry.
At the Sustainable Impact Forum, which took place as part of the World Government Summit in Dubai, Bakyt Torobaev, who holds the position of Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Water Resources, Agriculture, and Processing Industry, made a statement about the serious consequences of climate change for Lake Issyk-Kul. This information was disseminated by the press service of the Ministry of Water Resources.
Torobaev emphasized that Issyk-Kul represents a "unique ecosystem of regional significance, as well as an important socio-economic and natural resource for Kyrgyzstan."
However, the lake has been facing serious climate challenges in recent decades.According to him, the water level in Issyk-Kul has decreased by almost 14 meters since the mid-19th century, and the total volume of water has decreased by approximately 85 billion cubic meters.
Moreover, the number of rivers flowing into the lake has also significantly reduced, which is associated with glacial melting, changes in the hydrological regime, and increased water consumption.
According to Torobaev, Kyrgyzstan views the preservation of Issyk-Kul as an important element of the global climate and water agenda. He emphasized the need to shift from short-term solutions to long-term ones based on scientific data and investments.
The minister also called on the global community to expand cooperation in sustainable water resource management, integrate ecological and climate issues, and support joint initiatives aimed at protecting unique natural sites.
