Astana hosting Regional Ecological Summit 2026

The Regional Ecological Summit 2026 (RES 2026), themed Shared Vision for a Resilient Future, has opened in Kazakhstan's capital, Astana, the event's organizers told Report.

The summit is aimed at developing comprehensive policies and tools for the protection, restoration, and joint use of ecosystems, water, and land resources in Central Asia, as well as safeguarding biodiversity.

RES 2026 is organized by Kazakhstan's Ministry of Ecology and Natural Resources together with the United Nations and several other international organizations. It is the first large-scale event designed to create joint solutions reflecting a regional approach to tackling ecological challenges.

Delegations from 15 countries, including Azerbaijan, Italy, Germany, China, Russia, and Japan, are expected to participate.

As part of the summit, a ministerial dialogue under the Tehran Convention will be held. Its outcome is expected to include a declaration confirming the initiative to develop an interstate program for protecting the Caspian Sea ecosystem. Consultations are also planned on establishing an International Water Organization within the UN structure, with the participation of water authorities from UN member states, UN agencies with water mandates, and research institutions.

From April 22 to 24, the RES 2026 EXPO International Green Technologies Exhibition will complement the summit with practical initiatives. The exhibition will feature pavilions from Central Asian countries and Azerbaijan as an observer state.

Nearly 300 companies from 30 countries will take part in RES 2026 EXPO.