The Regional Ecological Summit 2026 (RES), under the theme “A Shared Vision for a Sustainable Future,” has commenced in the capital of Kazakhstan. The event is aimed at developing a comprehensive policy framework and practical instruments for the protection, restoration and shared use of ecosystems, water and land resources, as well as for the conservation of biodiversity in the countries of Central Asia.
The RES is organized by the Ministry of Ecology and Natural Resources of Kazakhstan in cooperation with the United Nations and a number of international organizations. It is the first large-scale event focused on developing joint solutions that reflect a regional approach to addressing environmental challenges.
These challenges require strengthened cooperation among governments, international and financial organizations, as well as the scientific and business communities.
The agenda of the Summit is structured around eight priority areas:
Supporting the climate transition;
Adaptation and economic resilience to environmental and natural risks;
Food security and the region’s ecosystem;
Sustainable management of natural resources;
Combating air pollution and waste management;
Mechanisms for achieving environmental ambitions;
Just and inclusive transition;
Environmental and digital competencies.
Within the framework of the Summit, a ministerial dialogue on the Tehran Convention will be held, following which a declaration is expected to be adopted, with a view to formalizing an initiative to develop an Interstate Program aimed at preserving the ecosystem of the Caspian Sea.
The RES program also includes consultations on the establishment of an International Water Organization within the UN system.
Among the outcome documents, particular note should be made of the joint declaration of the Heads of State of Central Asia entitled “Environmental Solidarity of Central Asia,” reflecting the political will to deepen cooperation in environmentally sustainable development, as well as the Regional Program of Action with UN agencies for 2026–2030.
An important practical complement to the Summit will be the RES 2026 EXPO International Exhibition of Green Technologies, featuring national pavilions of the Central Asian countries and Azerbaijan as an observer country.
RES 2026 EXPO will take place from 22 to 24 April and will bring together around 300 companies from 30 countries.
