Richmond Hill, Canada – January 30, 2025 – The United Nations University Institute for Water, Environment, and Health (UNU-INWEH) had the honor of welcoming H.E. Dauletbek Kussainov, Ambassador of the Republic of Kazakhstan to Canada, alongside Mr. Almaz Sadyrov, Consul in Toronto, and Mr. Nurlan Gabdyzhamalov, Economic Counsellor, for a high-level visit aimed at fostering collaboration on water security and management. The discussions focused on key issues, including transboundary water management, digitalization, and capacity-building initiatives.
The visit provided a valuable platform to explore mutual priorities, discuss potential partnerships, and exchange insights on global water challenges. The delegation highlighted Kazakhstan’s ongoing efforts to enhance water governance, strengthen transboundary cooperation, and integrate digital technologies into water resource management. UNU-INWEH, in turn, shared its expertise in scientific research, policy development, and capacity-building initiatives aimed at addressing these critical issues.
The delegation reaffirmed Kazakhstan’s commitment to collaborating with international partners, particularly within the UN system, to develop innovative solutions for water security and resilience in the region.
During the visit, the Kazakhstan delegation also met with Richmond Hill local officials. This engagement reinforced ties between Kazakhstan, Canada, and the local Richmond Hill community, underscoring shared sustainability goals and the potential for future cooperation in the water sector.
Exploring Opportunities for Future Collaboration
Kazakhstan is actively investing in the modernization of its water infrastructure, the advancement of digital water monitoring systems, and transboundary water cooperation. The discussions at UNU-INWEH highlighted several key areas for potential collaboration:
- Capacity Building & Training: Developing specialized training programs and fellowships to strengthen Kazakhstan’s expertise in water management.
- Digitalization & Data-Driven Decision-Making: Enhancing Kazakhstan’s Water Information System through remote sensing technologies and real-time data analytics.
- Policy and Science Diplomacy: Expanding partnerships with Canadian research institutions and international policy networks to promote integrated water resource management.
UNU-INWEH remains committed to fostering international partnerships that drive solutions for sustainable water management and climate resilience. This visit marks the beginning of a promising collaboration between UNU-INWEH and Kazakhstan, reflecting a shared dedication to addressing pressing environmental challenges.
Media Contacts:
Sogol Jafarzadeh
UN and Government Relations Coordinator, UNU-INWEH
sogol.jafarzadeh@unu.edu
