Kyrgyzstan warns of environmental, socioeconomic threats to Issyk-Kul lake

Kyrgyzstan’s Deputy PM and Minister Bakyt Torobayev highlighted the urgent impact of climate change on Issyk-Kul Lake at the World Governments Summit in Dubai, the Ministry reported.

Issyk-Kul is a unique regional ecosystem and a critical socioeconomic and natural resource for Kyrgyzstan, Caliber.Az reports via local media.

In recent decades, the lake has experienced serious environmental pressures, including a nearly 14-metre drop in water level and a reduction of approximately 85 billion cubic meters in total volume since the mid-19th century.

The number of rivers feeding the lake has also significantly decreased, largely due to melting glaciers, changing hydrological patterns, and increased water consumption.

The continued decline of the lake’s water level poses significant environmental and socioeconomic risks, affecting biodiversity, tourism potential, and the well-being of local communities.

Kyrgyzstan considers the preservation of Issyk-Kul part of the global climate and water agenda and emphasises the need for long-term, science-based, and investment-oriented solutions.

The country is calling for stronger international cooperation in sustainable water resource management, integration of climate, water, and ecosystem policies, and joint projects to safeguard unique natural sites.

The Kyrgyz Republic affirmed its readiness to serve as a reliable partner in protecting aquatic ecosystems and promoting a sustainable water future.

By Aghakazim Guliyev