Excursion Programme
Following the conclusion of the Fourth High-Level International Conference, an extensive excursion programme was organized for international participants, offering visits to some of Tajikistan’s most scenic and historically significant destinations. Each tour included transportation, meals, and professional guide services, providing delegates with an opportunity to gain deeper insight into the country’s unique natural, cultural, and water heritage.
The programme featured a sightseeing tour of Dushanbe, a visit to the Hissar Fortress — a UNESCO World Heritage site with a history spanning more than 3,000 years — as well as technical visits to the Nurek Hydropower Plant, home to the world’s highest dam at 304 meters, and the Rogun Hydropower Plant currently under construction, where the world’s tallest dam, reaching 335 meters, is being built. Participants also visited the Ramit Gorge, the Siyoma River Gorge in the Fann Mountains, and the Safed-Dara ski resort complex.
The excursion programme served as an important complement to the official conference agenda, vividly demonstrating the connection between the global water agenda and the natural landscapes, hydropower infrastructure, and cultural heritage of the host country. Participants had the opportunity to familiarize themselves with Tajikistan’s practical experience in water resource management, sustainable development, and hydropower, while also strengthening professional and interpersonal ties that contribute to continued international cooperation.
The Water Festival, held within the framework of the Fourth High-Level International Conference on the International Decade for Action “Water for Sustainable Development” 2018–2028, became a vibrant symbol of international cooperation, environmental responsibility, and the rich cultural heritage of Tajikistan. Bringing together representatives of different countries, international organizations, and guests of the capital in a festive atmosphere, the festival highlighted the importance of preserving water resources and protecting glaciers for future generations. Its colorful cultural program, national traditions, and unique spirit of hospitality made the festival one of the most remarkable events of the Conference.
Press conference
After the official closing of the conference, a press conference was held for national and international media representatives with the participation of the Prime Minister of the Republic of Tajikistan and Co-Chairs of the Conference, His Excellency Kokhir Rasulzoda and the United Nations Under-Secretary-General, Mr. Li Junhua. Together with fellow co-chairs and key partners of the forum, he presented the main outcomes of the conference, outlined the key provisions of the Final Declaration, and responded to questions from journalists.
The press conference served as an important platform for open dialogue with the media community and the wider international audience. It provided an opportunity to communicate the forum’s key messages and achievements to the global public, while also highlighting the significance of the Dushanbe Water Process as an important mechanism for international cooperation on water issues and for preparations toward the 2026 UN Water Conference.
Closing Session: From Commitments to Results
The closing session of the Fourth International Conference of the Dushanbe Water Process was held under the co-chairmanship of the Prime Minister of the Republic of Tajikistan, H.E. Kokhir Rasulzoda, and the United Nations Under-Secretary-General, Mr. Li Junhua. During the session, the outcomes of the Conference were reviewed, and its key results, achieved agreements, and future areas of cooperation were highlighted.
The Co-Chairs of the Conference, together with representatives of the United Nations system, presented the Conference outcome documents, including the Final Declaration, the Co-Chairs’ Summary, and the official contribution of the “Dushanbe Water Process” to the preparation for the 2026 UN Water Conference.
Dushanbe-2026 reaffirms its role as an important international platform for advancing the global water agenda, strengthening multilateral cooperation, and developing coordinated approaches to addressing water- and climate-related challenges. The Conference serves as a space where political will, regional experience, scientific knowledge, and innovative solutions are transformed into practical initiatives and concrete actions aimed at ensuring sustainable and climate-resilient water resources management.
“Towards the United Nations 2028 Water Conference”
💧 Segment 2. Informal Consultations
Participants discuss the contours of the future 2028 UN Water Conference.
📊 SP 1. Outcomes of the Water Action Decade
A critical review of the achievements and lessons learned from the Water Action Decade 2018–2028.
🗣 SP 2. Interactive Dialogues – 2028
Is it time for a thematic renewal of the dialogue format?
🌐 Towards the Post-2030 Agenda
Segment 3 launches the first discussion on the theme “Water in the Post-2030 Agenda.”
🛤 SP 3. Beyond 2030: What Comes Next?
Shaping the future global trajectory for water.
#DushanbeWaterProcess #4thDushanbeConference
#UNWater2028 #Post2030 #FutureOfWater
💧 Segment 1. From New York 2023 to New York 2026
Plenary and thematic sessions translating global commitments into tangible results.
👥 TS 1. Water for People
Access to safe water and sanitation as the foundation of a dignified life.
📈 TS 2. Water for Prosperity
Water as a driver of economic growth, food security, and energy security.
🌍 TS 3. Water for the Planet
Ecosystems, climate, and biodiversity at the heart of the global water agenda.
🤝 TS 4. Water for Cooperation
Transboundary collaboration, trust-building, and shared solutions.
🏛 TS 5. Water in Multilateral Processes
The role of the Dushanbe Water Process and other international platforms.
💼 TS 6. Investing in Water
Financing, innovation, and sustainable models for the water sector.
#DushanbeWaterProcess #4thDushanbeConference
#ThematicSessions #WaterAction #TranslatingCommitments
The International Exhibition “Water Resilience for Climate Solutions”
On the sidelines of the 4th High-Level International Conference on the International Decade for Action “Water for Sustainable Development” 2018–2028, the International Exhibition “Water Resilience for Climate Solutions” will take place on 26–27 May 2026.
The primary objective of the Exhibition is to showcase cutting-edge technologies, research, and best practices across a wide range of water-related and socio-economic sectors, including energy, agriculture, WASH, environmental protection, and climate adaptation.
Particular emphasis is placed on evidence-based solutions that contribute to improving water resources management, public and environmental health, disaster risk reduction, and the promotion of circular economy principles, while ensuring gender equality and social inclusion.
The International Exhibition brought together exhibition booths from Member States, entities of the United Nations system, international and regional organizations, scientific and research institutions, the private sector, as well as representatives of civil society. Participants showcased a wide range of projects, technologies, and initiatives aimed at sustainable water resources management and addressing current water-related challenges.
The Exhibition also provided an additional platform for professional engagement and partnership building. Within its framework, participants explored best practices, discussed practical solutions, and identified promising areas for further cooperation.
Opening Ceremony of the Fourth International High-Level Conference of the Dushanbe Water Process
The Fourth High-Level International Conference on the International Decade for Action “Water for Sustainable Development”, 2018–2028, is opening in Dushanbe. The Conference was opened by the Founder of Peace and National Unity — the Leader of the Nation, President of Tajikistan, His Excellency Emomali Rahmon.
The opening ceremony is being attended by high-level representatives of the United Nations system, partner countries, international and regional organizations, as well as development partners. They are delivering welcoming remarks, reaffirming their commitment to strengthening cooperation in the water sector.
The opening of the Conference is setting the key direction for the entire discussion, highlighting the urgent need to accelerate joint action in response to growing water and climate challenges. The holding of this high-level event in Dushanbe once again reinforces the role of the capital of Tajikistan as one of the leading international platforms for water dialogue on the path towards the United Nations Water Conference 2026.