Kazakhstan seeks global support as Caspian Sea faces “environmental catastrophe”

Kazakh President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev has issued a stark warning over the deteriorating state of the Caspian Sea, describing its ongoing desiccation as a looming environmental catastrophe.

His remarks came during the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) meeting held in Tianjin, where environmental concerns took centre stage alongside regional security and economic cooperation, Caliber.Az reports.

"I would like to draw your attention to a very delicate but serious issue — the dire situation surrounding the Caspian Sea. The situation is approaching an environmental catastrophe," Tokayev stated.

The Caspian Sea, the world’s largest inland body of water, has experienced significant shrinkage in recent years, a phenomenon attributed to climate change, reduced river inflows, and rising regional water usage. Scientists warn that the trend could have long-term consequences for biodiversity, local economies, and regional stability.

In response to the crisis, President Tokayev proposed the establishment of a Water Research Center in Astana under the auspices of the SCO. The proposed center would serve as a regional hub for research, policy coordination, and crisis mitigation related to transboundary water resources.

"The environmental situation in the region should become a key priority for long-term consultations within the organization," Tokayev emphasized, calling for enhanced cooperation among SCO member states to tackle shared ecological challenges.

Further underscoring Kazakhstan’s commitment to environmental diplomacy, Tokayev announced that Astana will host a Regional Environmental Summit in April 2026, organized in partnership with the United Nations. The summit is expected to convene regional leaders, scientists, and international institutions to address environmental degradation across Central Asia and the broader Eurasian region.

Concluding his remarks, Tokayev reminded the summit participants that 2026 will also mark the 25th anniversary of the SCO, an occasion he believes could catalyze a renewed vision for the organization’s global role.

By Vafa Guliyeva