China makes statement on transborder rivers it shares with Kazakhstan

Kazakhstan Foreign Minister Yerlan Idrissov met with his Chinese counterpart Wang Yi in Astana on August 19.

Management of trans-border rivers flowing from China to Kazakhstan have long been on the agenda of the two countries. Both Kazakhstan and Russia are concerned over increasing consumption of water from the Irtysh River by Chinese western territories and decrease of the water flow across the border. 

The Irtysh Ricer is a navigable river in Kazakhstan, but the citizens are fearful that it will cease to be one in 15-20 years if the water management doesn’t change. Irtysh is also used to generate energy and irrigate fields.

The Ministers discussed rational and balanced use of cross border water and exchange opinions on water sharing and joint water intake from trans-border and border rivers. Both parties agreed to pursue consistent regulation of the issue.