Representatives of Central Asian countries shared updates on national water quality management systems, joint surface water monitoring initiatives, and progress in inter-country cooperation. Technical presentations addressed emerging challenges, including proposed updates to the classification and protection of surface water bodies in Uzbekistan and research findings on microplastics in fish from tributaries of the Syr Darya River.
A central focus of the meeting was the discussion of the strategic vision for the development of the RWG-WQ and the proposed Action Plan for 2025–2029. Participants reviewed thematic priorities, discussed capacity-building needs, and provided recommendations to ensure alignment with national interests and the objectives of the Blue Peace Central Asia initiative.
The meeting concluded with presentations from international and regional partners, including UNECE, GIZ, FAO, ICWC, and the International Secretariat for Water, highlighting ongoing and planned initiatives in the field of water quality. Participants agreed on next steps, including further refinement of the RWG-WQ Action Plan and preparation for its approval, reaffirming their commitment to continued regional cooperation to improve water quality management and protect shared water resources in Central Asia.