Egyptian Minister of Water Resources and Irrigation, Dr. Hani Suwelim, emphasized that Egypt relies on Nile River water from outside its borders for 98% of its needs. He made these remarks during a session at the Euro-Mediterranean Water Forum in Rome, Italy. The minister highlighted the importance of cooperation and consultation among countries sharing water resources to achieve mutual benefits and ensure sustainable development.
Dr. Suwelim discussed the water challenges faced by Mediterranean countries, including water scarcity, climate change, and extreme weather conditions. He stressed that addressing these challenges requires regional cooperation and joint projects that benefit all parties involved. The minister also emphasized the need for suitable financing mechanisms to turn ideas and initiatives into implementable projects.
The Egyptian minister reviewed the country's approach to addressing water challenges through expanding water treatment and reuse, developing non-traditional water resources, and promoting innovation and scientific research. He highlighted Egypt's vision for the second generation of its water management system, which focuses on smart management, modern technology, and digital transformation.
Dr. Suwelim noted that Egypt cooperates with Nile Basin countries in various areas related to water and development. He expressed optimism about enhancing this cooperation in the future, citing opportunities for joint projects that benefit all parties. The minister emphasized that cooperation within the Nile Basin should be based on international law and principles governing shared international rivers.
The minister stressed the importance of considering the entire hydrological cycle when evaluating and managing water resources. He advocated for a comprehensive approach that takes into account not only "blue water" but also "green water" associated with rainfall, soil moisture, and vegetation cover. This approach, he argued, would provide a more comprehensive understanding of available water resources.
Dr. Suwelim's participation in the Euro-Mediterranean Water Forum reflects Egypt's commitment to international cooperation on water issues. The forum provides a platform for countries to share experiences and best practices in managing water resources. Egypt's engagement in such international forums underscores its efforts to address water challenges and promote sustainable development.
The country's reliance on Nile River water from outside its borders highlights the importance of cooperation with upstream countries to ensure a stable water supply. Egypt's water management strategy aims to optimize the use of available resources while exploring new sources of water to meet growing demands. By engaging in international cooperation and adopting innovative approaches, Egypt seeks to address its water challenges and promote sustainable development.
Key points
- Egypt relies on Nile River water from outside its borders for 98% of its needs.
- The country faces water challenges, including scarcity, climate change, and extreme weather conditions.
- Egypt advocates for regional cooperation and joint projects to address water challenges and promote sustainable development.
