On 6 March 2025, Shanghai Cooperation Organisation Secretary- General Nurlan Yermekbayev addressed participants of the international conference, Emomali Rahmon’s Water Diplomacy: From the First Step to Global Partnership, via video message. The event was organised by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Tajikistan.
In his speech, Nurlan Yermekbayev highlighted the strategic significance of water resources for regional sustainability and security, emphasising the SCO’s role in fostering cooperation in this area. He also acknowledged Tajikistan’s leader and his initiatives in water diplomacy, calling for continued collective efforts to ensure the rational use and protection of water resources, especially in the face of climate change.
It was emphasised that the environmental agenda continues to be a priority for the Organisation. In 2024, designated as the SCO Year of the Environment, member states adopted several strategic documents aimed at environmental protection and the sustainable use of natural resources. These include an agreement on cooperation in environmental protection, joint approaches to addressing environmental challenges, and a Joint Action Plan for the implementation of the SCO Green Belt programme for 2024-2026.
Special attention was given to the Statement on Ensuring Safe Drinking Water and Sanitation, adopted at last year’s Astana Summit. It was highlighted that the document underscores the importance of a comprehensive approach to water policy and emphasises that access to clean water and modern sanitation are essential components of sustainable development and public health.