President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev took part in the VIII Consultative Meeting of the Heads of State of Central Asia and Azerbaijan. This was reported by Qazaqyia.kz citing Sputnik Kazakhstan.

During the meeting, the head of state noted that, according to the World Bank's assessment, if the planned infrastructure tasks are fully implemented, cargo transportation across the Caspian will increase fourfold by 2040.

"I think the issue of linking the Middle Corridor with the TRIPP transport initiative can be discussed at the expert level. This project enhances our potential and meets the long-term interests of all states," said Kassym-Jomart Tokayev.

According to the president, water issues are one of the main challenges threatening the stability of Central Asia.

"We face the task of developing new approaches to managing transboundary water resources. This work must be based on the principles of mutual respect and equality, and the interests of all countries in the region must be taken into account. The adoption of a framework convention on water use in Central Asia would be the first step toward forming a new regional architecture of cooperation," Tokayev said.

According to him, the draft document has been submitted for consideration by the parties.

"The initiative to create an International Water Organization under the auspices of the UN is very relevant. Jointly promoting it as a common position at the international level, particularly in Central Asia, will be our contribution to the global system of water resource management," the president added.

The head of state noted that in a world full of turmoil, maintaining peace and stability in the region is the main task.

"Terrorism, the drug business, arms and human trafficking, illegal migration, organized crime and fraud pose a significant threat to security. It is deeply concerning that digital technologies may fall into the hands of malefactors, in particular terrorists and criminal groups selling drugs," the president said.

It is worth noting that Kassym-Jomart Tokayev arrived in Turkmenistan on a working visit.