Tokayev: Water is a matter of national security

Tengrinews.kz - President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev congratulated water management professionals on their professional holiday and emphasized that water is a source of life and a priceless strategic resource for all nations, citing Akorda.

“Kazakhstan has vast territory, but much of it consists of deserts and semi-deserts. So it’s no exaggeration to say that water resources are a matter of national security for Kazakhstan and have always remained a top priority for the state. In my 2023 Address, I placed special emphasis on the careful use of water. A Ministry of Water Resources and Irrigation was established. Concrete goals were set, large-scale reforms have been carried out, a new Water Code was adopted, and major infrastructure projects are underway. Significant funding has been allocated to build and modernize water infrastructure, including attracting foreign investment. Today, about 30,000 people work in the sector, ensuring water delivery to cities, villages, industrial facilities, and for agricultural irrigation,” Tokayev said.

The president also noted that the country continues to face a shortage of qualified specialists.

“To address this, the Kazakh National University of Water Management and Irrigation was established last year. The number of scholarships for this field has doubled, and more than 500 students are now studying on state grants. Graduates will be able to find employment under the ‘With a Diploma to the Village’ program. In addition, 120 professionals are receiving additional training in China as part of an exchange initiative,” he said.

Tokayev stressed that improving working conditions for water sector employees is also a priority.

“In 2024, salaries in the sector rose by 25 percent, and a further increase is planned this year. In short, systematic efforts are underway in this area,” he noted.

The president also presented awards to distinguished water sector workers.

Earlier, Minister of Water Resources and Irrigation Nurzhan Nurzhigitov responded to concerns about a possible water shortage in the capital this summer.