DUSHANBE, 30.05.2025 (NIAT Khovar) – Today, May 30, Dushanbe is hosting the High-Level International Conference on Glaciers’ Preservation – a major global climate initiative spearheaded by Tajikistan under the leadership of President Emomali Rahmon.

The scale of the conference speaks for itself, reflecting the growing global solidarity in the face of escalating climate challenges.

More than 2,500 delegates from across the globe are participating in the event, including representatives from 80 UN Member States, 12 ministers responsible for natural resources, climate, and environmental affairs, 24 heads of international and regional organizations, and 500 journalists – among them 150 foreign media representatives from outlets such as Al Jazeera, Euronews, TRT Avaz, Agence France-Presse, and TASS. Over 120 volunteers are also supporting the event’s high-level organizational efforts.

The organization and hosting of the conference once again demonstrate Tajikistan’s proactive role in advancing the global sustainable development agenda and ensuring climate security – with a particular emphasis on glaciers as a strategic source of freshwater for millions of people.

The conference will focus on pathways for strengthening international cooperation in the monitoring, protection, and sustainable management of glacial resources. Discussions will also explore concrete mechanisms for financing scientific research, building institutional capacity, and expanding global partnerships.

The initiative to hold this conference, proposed by the President of Tajikistan Emomali Rahmon, has received broad support from the international community. This endorsement underscores the trust and respect Tajikistan commands for its commitment to addressing critical global challenges.

In his opening address, President Emomali Rahmon stated:

“The rapid melting of glaciers has become one of the defining global crises of our time. In recent decades, glaciers have been retreating at an alarming rate — a trend without precedent in human history.

According to expert assessments, the year 2023 recorded the largest annual loss of glacier volume to date, with 600 gigatonnes of freshwater disappearing, contributing to a significant rise in global sea levels.

Climate change has already led to the disappearance of approximately one-third of the world’s mountain glaciers. This phenomenon not only affects ecosystems but also has profound implications for numerous aspects of human life.

Glaciers are among the primary sources of drinking water on our planet. Their preservation is essential for achieving the majority of the Sustainable Development Goals.”

As part of the conference program, eight thematic forums, 18 side events, the Glacier Festival, an international exhibition, 12 thematic sessions, and two plenary meetings are being held.

The conference is being convened as part of the International Year of Glaciers’ Preservation, which was proclaimed at the initiative of the President of Tajikistan and supported by more than 150 UN Member States at the 77th session of the UN General Assembly on 14 December 2022.