Tokayev proposes establishing water and energy consortium for Central Asian countries

ASTANA. Aug 9 (Interfax) - Kazakh President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev has proposed establishing a water and energy consortium to Central Asian countries.

"Initiatives to jointly build hydropower facilities and establish a water and energy consortium for Central Asian countries could lay a foundation for multilateral water cooperation," Tokayev said in a speech at a regular consultative meeting of Central Asian leaders that is taking place in Astana.

The text of Tokayev's speech was distributed by his press service.

The digitalization of water distribution and metering, introduction of space monitoring technologies, and building a system of scientific work are also urgent objectives, Tokayev said.

Tokayev said that a new consolidated water policy based on equitable and fair water use and strict compliance with mutual obligations is required.