The event, organized by the OSCE Centre in Astana in close co-operation with the Committee on Water Resources and the non-governmental Centre for Sustainable Development, brought together some 35 representatives, including from the local administration, the Balkhash-Alakol Basin Council and civil society to discuss the implementation of Integrated Water Resource Management in the southern part of Kazakhstan.

"The OSCE pays utmost attention to efficient management of water resources, as water shortages and poor water quality can be a potential source of social discontent," said Terje Helland, Economic and Environmental Officer of the OSCE Centre in Astana. "This workshop provides assistance and capacity-building measures to raise the level of knowledge and improve the skills of Basin Council members to ensure a sustainable approach towards water management at the regional level."

Vera Mustafina, the Head of the Centre for Sustainable Development, added: "The aim of the present workshop is to enhance the competence of Basin Councils in performing their key function of advising authorities on water management matters and improving communication among interested stakeholders in order to include public opinion in the decision-making process."

Bolat Takenov, Deputy Akim of Almaty oblast said: "The Oblast’s Akimat and local executive authorities recognize the significant role of the Basin Council in addressing water resource problems and support it in its activities. The recommendations of the OSCE Centre in Astana are valuable for strengthening and effectively implementing an integrated approach to water resource management."

Workshop participants discussed best practices and possible ways to introduce the concept of Integrated Water Resource Management in their respective regions and to stimulate dialogue among interested parties.

The event is the first in a series of workshops on the introduction of Integrated Water Resource Management in Kazakhstan’s regions and forms part of the OSCE Centre’s activities to promote efficient water management systems.