Photo credit: Embassy of Tajikistan in Brussels

The Republic of Tajikistan will host the 4th High-Level International Conference on the International Decade for Action “Water for Sustainable Development”, 2018–2028, from 25 to 28 May 2026 in Dushanbe. The conference will bring together high-level representatives of governments, international organizations, financial institutions, academia, civil society, youth, and the private sector to strengthen global cooperation on water-related challenges.

Organized by the Government of Tajikistan in cooperation with the United Nations and international partners, the conference will serve as an important platform to advance implementation of Sustainable Development Goal 6 and prepare for the 2026 UN Water Conference.

In his message to the international community ahead of the conference, the Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Tajikistan, H.E. Mr. Sirojiddin Muhriddin, emphasized the critical importance of water for sustainable development, food security, public health, energy, and economic prosperity. He underlined that climate change, glacier melting, and growing water stress require stronger international solidarity and collective action.

“Taking care of water means taking care of our common future,” the Minister stressed, while inviting governments, international organizations, financial institutions, academia, youth, and all interested stakeholders to actively participate in the conference in Dushanbe.

Speaking about the significance of the upcoming event, Ambassador of Tajikistan to the Benelux Countries and Permanent Representative of Tajikistan to the European Union, H.E. Mr. Muzaffar Huseinzoda, noted that Tajikistan has consistently promoted water diplomacy and sustainable water management on the global stage. He emphasized that the Dushanbe Water Process has become an important international platform for dialogue, partnership, and practical solutions addressing water and climate-related challenges.

Ambassador Huseinzoda also highlighted that the conference reflects Tajikistan’s continued commitment to advancing multilateral cooperation and supporting global efforts to promote the sustainable development and integrated management of water resources for the achievement of social, economic, and environmental objectives, strengthen resilience to climate change, ensure sustainable water management for future generations, and achieve internationally agreed water-related goals and targets, including those contained in the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development.

The 4th Dushanbe Water Conference is expected to produce key recommendations and outcome documents aimed at accelerating global water action and reinforcing international partnerships in the lead-up to the 2028 UN Water Conference.