AKIPRESS.COM - An OSCE-supported training seminar on the development of sustainable fisheries in the Aral Sea region began today in Kyzylorda, Kazakhstan.

The two-day event was organized by the OSCE Programme Office in Astana in partnership with the International Fund for Saving the Aral Sea (IFAS) Executive Directorate in Kazakhstan, the regional administration and Kazakh Research Institute of Fisheries.

Some 30 fish farmers, representatives of the central and local authorities, scientific and research institutions, academia, non-governmental organizations and international experts from Uzbekistan and the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations took part in the seminar. It provided a platform for dialogue on current environmental issues and prospects for fisheries and aquaculture in the region in line with green growth and sustainable development principles. The seminar was complemented by a practical exercise at the Kyzylorda pond fishery farm “Suyindik”.

“The development of sustainable fish farming based on green growth principles is a key factor in effective water resources management. In this connection, successful international experience and best practices will help introduce sustainable models of aquaculture in the Aral region and ensure a constructive dialogue between the authorities and the business community as well as coordinated co-operation of all stakeholders,” said Ambassador Natalia Zarudna, Head of the OSCE Programme Office in Astana.

Erkebulan Bekzhanov, Head of the Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Control of Kyzylorda Region said: “It is well known that the fishing industry of the Aral Sea region ceased to exist because the Sea dried up in the 1990’s. Some 15 to 20 years ago, the Kyzylorda region was at the forefront of the development of fisheries in the country. Therefore, the topic of today's training seminar is very important for our region, located in the lower reaches of the Syr Darya River, as the area has great potential for the development of fishing.”

The seminar is part of the Office’s long-term efforts to promote efficient water management and a green economy as well as protect fragile ecosystems in the northern part of the Aral Sea. It is a follow-up to similar activities held by the OSCE in co-operation with Kazakhstan’s branch of IFAS on the basis of the relevant Memorandum of Understanding.