Kambarata HPP to solve irrigation problems in Uzbekistan, Kazakhstan - Atambayev
BISHKEK. Sept 20 (Interfax) - The construction of the Kambarata-1 hydropower plant will meet the interests of all Central Asian countries, Kyrgyz President Almazbek Atambayev told reporters in Bishkek on Thursday, after negotiations with Russian President Vladimir Putin.
Atambayev was answering questions about concerns of Uzbekistan and Kazakhstan over the project.
"[Back in the Soviet period] the Kambarata-1 HPP was intended to be a reservoir rescuing Uzbekistan and Kazakhstan in summers. There are a number of hydropower plants, including the renowned Toktogul, downstream," he said.
"We practically drain the Toktogul dam lake in winter when we need to generate electricity, and we are short of water in summer," he said. "When the Kambarata is built, we will be able to use its water in winter and the Toktogul water in summer. The Kambarata HPP is necessary, as it will help irrigation in Uzbekistan and Kazakhstan, but we are aware of the concerns of these countries and are ready to cooperate," Atambayev said.
Kyrgyzstan and Russia signed an agreement to build the Kambarata HPP in Bishkek on Thursday.
