On June 16, 2021, a meeting with the delegation of the USAID Water Resources and Environment Regional Project was held at the KazISS under the President of the Republic of Kazakhstan which was represented by: USAID Central Asia project management specialist Gulzada Azhetova, USAID capacity development and education coordinator Yekaterina Strikeleva, USAID water resources integrated management coordinator Anna Inozemtseva, USAID water policy coordinator Madina Ibrasheva.

Deputy director Sanat Kushkumbayev, head of the International studies department Assel Nazarbetova and research fellow of the International studies department Alisher Abdreshev took part in the meeting on behalf of KazISS.

The USAID Water Resources and Environment Regional Project started in 2020 and is designed for five years. The main goals are to strengthen cooperation between the Central Asian countries in the field of water resources, increase stability, economic prosperity and healthy ecosystems.

During the meeting the parties elaborated on the environmental problems as well as the proper distribution of water resources in Central Asia. It was noted that careful water management is a priority for the entire CA region. In addition, the comprehensive involvement of the scientific and expert community in this issue would give the necessary impetus in resolving existing contradictions.

As a result of the meeting, readiness for cooperation as well as participation in working groups, joint research projects on water issue with experts from Central Asia, holding expert meetings and round tables was expressed.