RRI.CO.ID, Jakarta - Indonesia has reaffirmed its leadership in global water management.

United Nations (UN) Secretary-General’s Special Envoy on Water, Retno Marsudi—who previously served as Indonesia’s foreign minister—met with Kazakh President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev in Astana on April 15, 2026, to discuss global challenges and cooperation on water resources.

Indonesian Ambassador to Kazakhstan Fadjroel Rachman said Kazakhstan regards Indonesia as a role model in fulfilling international commitments and advancing sustainable water management and conservation.

He highlighted Indonesia’s success in hosting the 10th World Water Forum in Bali in May 2024, which drew representatives from 160 countries and around 2,000 delegates.

“That World Water Forum paved the way for Retno Marsudi’s appointment as the UN Special Envoy on Water,” Ambassador Fadjroel said in a written statement on Saturday, April 25, as quoted by Antara.

During her visit, Retno also held talks with Kazakh Foreign Minister Yermek Kosherbayev and Presidential Advisor Zulfiya Suleimenova. “This visit significantly strengthens bilateral relations between Kazakhstan and Indonesia, particularly in water issues and global climate change management,” Fadjroel added.

President Tokayev underscored that water is a strategic asset closely tied to sustainable development, long-term regional stability, and security. He stressed the importance of reinforcing the international framework for water governance.

Tokayev reiterated his initiative to establish an international water organization under the UN, which he believes would enhance global coordination and promote sustainable solutions.

Both Tokayev and Retno emphasized the importance of the upcoming UN Water Conference in Abu Dhabi in December 2026, describing it as a key platform to foster a coordinated approach to water-related challenges.

Special attention was also given to the rational use of water resources in Central Asia, according to a statement from the Kazakh presidential office. ***