President of Turkmenistan Serdar Berdimuhamedov outlined the strategic views and new initiatives of our country on water diplomacy during the Regional Environmental Summit on April 22. The Head of State particularly emphasized that the issue of rational and equitable use of transboundary water resources is the foundation of sustainable development in the region. This was reported by the "Turkmenistan: Golden Age" electronic newspaper.

Turkmenistan puts forward an initiative to establish a Regional council on water use issues in Central Asian countries under the auspices of the UN. This council could become an effective international mechanism that coordinates efforts in the region's water sector, ensures transparency, and equally protects the interests of states.

In addressing transboundary water issues, Turkmenistan strictly adheres to three main principles. Firstly, these issues must be carried out in strict accordance with the norms of the main international water conventions and other international instruments. This ensures a solid legal foundation for water use.

Secondly, the interests of all states located along transboundary rivers must be taken into account equally and fairly. According to Turkmenistan's view, the distribution of water resources should serve the development needs of all peoples and countries in the region.

Thirdly, the wide participation of international organizations, primarily the United Nations, is necessary for the regulation of the water issue. Turkmenistan confirms that negotiations held with the support of the UN are of great importance in strengthening mutual trust and friendly relations in the region.