The Regional Water Forum took place today in Brussels, organized by the Drought Prevention Institute (DPI) of the Organization of Turkic States, with the support of the Hungarian Export Promotion Agency (HEPA). The forum brought together diplomats, heads of diplomatic missions from Turkic states accredited to the European Union, representatives of international organizations and leading experts in water resources and sustainable development.
The opening remarks were delivered by Secretary General of the Organization of Turkic States Kubanychbek Omuraliev, President of the Turkic Academy Shahin Mustafayev, Hungarian Ambassador to Belgium Tamás Iván Kovács, Executive Director of the OTS Representation in Hungary István Vásári, HEPA Director General Gábor Jenei, as well as Vice President and Board Member of the European Trade Promotion Organization (Brussels) Francis Baert.
In his address, President of the Turkic Academy Shahin Mustafayev provided a regional overview on "Cooperation for Sustainability and Water in Turkic States." He underscored that water security is emerging as one of the region’s most pressing challenges, driven by population growth, climate change and transboundary water issues. Special attention was given to the consequences of the Aral Sea’s desiccation and the looming threat of Caspian Sea depletion, with a call for strengthened joint efforts to safeguard water resources.
A key focus of his speech was the presentation of the Turkic Academy’s report, "Water Future Vision and Cooperation for Sustainability in Turkic States." The report outlines strategic approaches to ensuring water security in the region, proposing practical solutions and mechanisms for international collaboration.
Summarizing his address, Mustafayev emphasized that achieving the goals set in the "Vision for the Turkic World – 2040" is unattainable without effective water policies, innovative solutions and the collective efforts of all stakeholders.
The report sparked significant interest among forum participants, with diplomats, experts and representatives of international organizations acknowledging its relevance and value. They highlighted that the analysis and initiatives presented open new avenues for effective water resource management and deeper cooperation across the Turkic world.
The Regional Water Forum in Brussels concluded its work, having served as a vital platform for expert discussions, project presentations and forging partnerships in water resource management.
