Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan, and Kyrgyzstan have signed a major trilateral agreement that will shape the region’s winter energy stability and water management strategy through 2026. The accord, announced by Kazinform, legally defines electricity supply volumes for the autumn–winter period and establishes coordinated plans for water accumulation at Kyrgyzstan’s Toktogul Reservoir.
Under the agreement, Kazakhstan and Uzbekistan will supply electricity to Kyrgyzstan throughout the winter months. This support will allow Kyrgyzstan to reduce domestic electricity generation during peak cold periods and redirect its focus toward storing water in Toktogul. The preserved water will later be released to Kazakhstan and Uzbekistan during the agricultural growing season, ensuring reliable irrigation for farms across the southern regions.
Officials underscored that the initiative is rooted in mutual trust and long-term cooperation. As one representative stated, “Our joint work is carried out in the spirit of good neighbourliness and aims to strengthen energy security and regional stability.”
The talks brought together senior energy and water officials, including Kyrgyz Energy Minister Taalaibek Ibrayev, Kazakhstan’s Minister of Water Resources Nurzhan Nurzhigitov, and Uzbekistan’s Energy Minister Jurabek Mirzamakhmudov. Their discussions highlighted the urgency of coordinated action given the challenging water levels at Toktogul and the increasing pressure on regional energy systems.
Beyond electricity exchanges, the countries also agreed to implement joint energy-saving measures and technical coordination for transit and balancing of power flows. The Uzbek side reiterated its readiness to facilitate all necessary transmission conditions.
The newly signed trilateral protocol marks a significant step in Central Asia’s evolving hydro-energy partnership. With growing climate pressures and rising demand, the agreement positions the region to better navigate winter shortages while preparing for a productive 2026 growing season.
