On May 25, 2026, at the initiative of the Government of the Republic of Tajikistan and hosted by the International University of Tourism and Entrepreneurship of Tajikistan, a High-Level Forum on “Ensuring Sustainable Food Systems Amid the Global Water Resource Crisis” was held within the framework of the Third Economic Forum entitled “Sustainable Water Resource Management in the Context of Climate Change.”
The forum was attended by the Deputy Prime Minister of the Republic of Tajikistan, Dilrabo Mansuri; the Assistant to the President of the Republic of Tajikistan for Social Affairs and Public Relations, Anvar Safarzoda; the Rector of the International University of Tourism and Entrepreneurship of Tajikistan, Professor Ubaydullo Sattor Asrorzoda; the Rector of the United Nations University and United Nations Under-Secretary-General, Mr. Tshilidzi Marwala; the Rector of the United Nations University Institute for Water, Environment and Health, Professor Kaveh Madani; the Deputy Minister of Agriculture of the Republic of Tajikistan, Bahromjon Rajab Ahmadzoda; as well as rectors of higher education institutions, scientists, researchers, and professors in the field of economics.
The forum was opened by the Rector of the International University of Tourism and Entrepreneurship of Tajikistan, Professor Ubaydullo Sattor Asrorzoda, who stated that the efficient use of water resources and ensuring food security have become key issues for the global community. It was emphasized that the Republic of Tajikistan, as a leading initiator of water and climate-related issues, has consistently promoted constructive proposals on the international stage and has made a significant contribution to strengthening international cooperation in this field.
In her speech, Deputy Prime Minister Dilrabo Mansuri conveyed the congratulatory message of the Government of the Republic of Tajikistan to the forum participants and highlighted Tajikistan’s broad cooperation with the United Nations in addressing issues related to water, climate, and sustainable development.
She stressed that climate change and the reduction of water resources are compelling the global community to seek new approaches to effective natural resource management and increasing the need for coordinated efforts among countries.
It was also noted that the Government of the Republic of Tajikistan, under the leadership of the Leader of the Nation, is implementing important measures to ensure food security and protect the environment.
During the forum, the Rector of the United Nations University and United Nations Under-Secretary-General, Mr. Tshilidzi Marwala, praised the international initiatives of President Emomali Rahmon in the fields of water and climate as exemplary actions of global significance.
It was noted that Tajikistan’s initiatives concerning water resources, including the International Decade for Action “Water for Sustainable Development, 2018–2028,” have created favorable conditions for uniting the international community in addressing global challenges.
The forum also discussed issues related to sustainable food systems, rational use of water resources, the impact of climate change on the economy, and ways to strengthen international cooperation. Participants exchanged views on the implementation of modern technologies and the development of a green economy.
At the conclusion of the forum, it was emphasized that holding such high-level events plays an important role in strengthening scientific cooperation, expanding international dialogue, and drawing global attention to pressing water and climate issues.
