Kazakhstan Imports 10.2 Billion Cubic Meters of Water from China in Six Months

In the first half of this year, Kazakhstan received 4.6 billion cubic meters of water from the Yertis River and 5.6 billion cubic meters from the Ile River, according to the Kazakh Water Resources and Irrigation Ministry.

The Ministry said Kazakhstan diverted water from the Ile River to boost the storage level in the Kapchagay reservoir, Almaty region, to 100%, allowing to supply 8.52 billion cubic meters of water to Lake Balkhash, The Caspian Post reports citing Kazinform.

As a result, since early 2025, the water level in Lake Balkhash rose by 32 centimeters on average from 341.55 meters to 341.87 meters according to the Baltic Sea level elevation system.

Cooperation with China covers not only transboundary rivers. In March this year, the water authorities of Kazakhstan and China for the first time signed the memorandum of mutual understanding and cooperation. It provides for greater cooperation in the rational and sustainable use of water, implementation of advanced technologies, distribution and development of alternative water sources as well as exchange of experience and joint personnel training, said Nagima Azhigulova, head of the department of water cooperation with China and Russia.