Negotiations between the chiefs of water and energy authorities from Uzbekistan, Kazakhstan, and Kyrgyzstan have concluded in Tashkent.
The primary outcome of the meeting was the signing of a tripartite protocol, which outlines the agreed-upon volumes and schedules for water releases from the Toktogul Reservoir over the next two months, 24.kg reported, citing the Ministry of Energy of Kyrgyzstan.
"The central item on the agenda was ensuring that the southern regions receive sufficient water during the critical growing season. The signing of this protocol guarantees adherence to water release schedules from the Toktogul Hydroelectric Power Plant, removing uncertainty for farmers as the season begins. This will allow Kazakh and Uzbek farmers to navigate the early stages of irrigation without disruption," the report stated.
The leaders are scheduled to meet again in mid-June in Bishkek. That meeting will focus on finalizing schedules and signing off on water release volumes for the pivotal months of July, August, and September.
The signing of the current protocol underscores the high efficiency of the interstate water-energy balance mechanism.
The three nations agreed on a phased approach to ensure a stable water supply through the end of the agricultural season.
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