The 6th Arab Water Forum, held in conjunction with the World Utilities Congress, began yesterday in Abu Dhabi. Global leaders, policymakers, and industry experts have come together to tackle the pressing issues of water security and sustainability. This event, held over three days, provides a key platform for collaboration and innovation in the utilities sector.
As water scarcity continues to intensify worldwide, the forum aligns regional water strategies with global sustainability goals. Participants will engage in high-level discussions and technical sessions that explore topics such as climate resilience, sustainable water management, and the future of water resources.
In his keynote address, H.E. Prof. Mahmoud Abu-Zeid, President of the Arab Water Council, highlighted the significance of regional cooperation, stating: “Sustainable water management is not just a necessity but a collective responsibility.
Our efforts today will determine the future of water security for generations to come.” Meanwhile, H.E. Prof. Loïc Fauchon, President of the World Water Council, stressed the importance of defending and conserving water resources, saying, “Water is at the heart of everything; it stimulates us and, more often than not, brings us together. But water is under attack, and our responsibility is to defend it, protect it, conserve it, and make better use of it.”
A highlight of the forum is the High-Level Ministerial Dialogue, featuring global policymakers who are discussing strategies to enhance water security amid increasing demand. H.E. Madam Zhu Chengqing, Vice Minister of the Ministry of Water Resources of China, emphasized the importance of global cooperation, stating: “The world must come together in tackling these shared challenges, as sustainable solutions require a global commitment.” Similarly, H.E. Prof. Hani Sewilam, Egypt’s Minister of Water Resources and Irrigation, stressed the need for an integrated approach, saying, “Effective water management is key to the prosperity of all nations and demands collaboration at every level, from local to global.”
H.E. Ahmed Aboul Gheit, Secretary-General of the League of Arab States, underscored the importance of regional unity in combating water challenges, noting: “Unity among our regions is critical for tackling the escalating water crisis and ensuring sustainable progress for all Arab countries.” H.E. Aun Dheyab Abdulla, Iraq’s Minister of Water Resources, echoed this sentiment, adding, “Cooperative strategies and innovative approaches are essential to manage shared water resources effectively in the face of climate change and increasing demand.”
The forum will continue for two more days, offering high-level panels, technical sessions, and opportunities for networking. Attendees will have the chance to engage with cutting-edge solutions and form partnerships aimed at advancing water sustainability and securing a resilient future for all.
