DUSHANBE, 21.03.2026 (NIAT Khovar) – On 19 March 2026, a high-level event dedicated to the World Day for Glaciers was held at the United Nations Headquarters in New York under the theme “Glaciers ina Changing World: Safeguarding the Planet’s Cryosphere», Khovar reported, citing Foreign Ministry of the country.

The event was organized at the initiative of the Republic of Tajikistan in cooperation with UN Member States, relevant United Nations entities, and international organizations. Its objectives were to raise awareness of the importance of glaciers, strengthen scientific cooperation, and promote policy actions for their preservation.

 Mr. Sirojiddin Muhriddin, the Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Tajikistan, participated in the event and delivered a statement. He emphasized that glaciers are among the most visible indicators of climate change and play a crucial role in maintaining the Earth’s hydrological and ecological balance. He noted that their rapid retreat has significant implications for freshwater resources, food security, energy, and socio-economic stability in affected regions.

The Minister highlighted that glacier preservation is of particular importance for Tajikistan, as 93 percent of the country’s territory is mountainous, and glaciers constitute a primary source of water resources. It was noted that Tajikistan is home to nearly 13,000 glaciers, providing up to 60 percent of Central Asia’s freshwater resources, while over 1,300 glaciers have already disappeared, a trend considered alarming.

It was further stressed that, over the past two decades, the Republic of Tajikistan has consistently promoted water and climate issues at the global level. At Tajikistan’s initiative, the United Nations General Assembly declared 2025 as the International Year of Glaciers’ Preservation and proclaimed 21 March as the World Day for Glaciers.

In conclusion, the Tajikistan side called upon the international community to take concrete measures to mitigate the impacts of climate change, strengthen scientific research, enhance international cooperation, and mobilize financial resources for glacier preservation.

The event brought together representatives of UN Member States, international organizations, the scientific community, and civil society, contributing to the strengthening of global dialogue on glacier preservation and the cryosphere.