Egyptian Minister of Water Resources and Irrigation, Hani Suwelim, recently met with Paul Coster, Regional Director of UNESCO's Arab States office in Cairo. The meeting aimed to explore ways to bolster joint cooperation and support national priorities in sustainable water resources management. Minister Suwelim emphasized his ministry's commitment to enhancing collaboration with UNESCO in areas such as scientific research, capacity building, and knowledge sharing.
During the meeting, Suwelim and Coster discussed potential areas of cooperation to support the African Water and Climate Adaptation Center (PACWA) in building the capacities of African cadres. They also explored collaboration in the field of green water and promoting an integrated understanding of the water cycle, including rainfall and soil moisture. This cooperation is expected to contribute to improved water management and climate change adaptation in Africa.
The two officials also reviewed ongoing cooperation within the framework of the 2026 Cairo Water Week. This included sessions on water diplomacy, science-based cooperation, and green water, as well as capacity building. They also discussed proposed cooperation to prepare a project under the Global Environment Facility, aiming to enhance water security and climate change adaptation through integrated management of coastal groundwater in Egypt.
Minister Suwelim and Regional Director Coster further examined the ongoing activities of the UNESCO Chair on Water International Joint Management and Governance at the National Water Research Center. This chair serves as a platform for applied research, exchange of expertise, capacity building, and scientific dialogue. It seeks to strengthen cooperation among Southern countries and connect Egyptian and African institutions to international scientific networks.
The Egyptian Minister highlighted the importance of translating cooperation into practical programs in coordination with national institutions and UNESCO's International Hydrological Program. He also noted that linking research outcomes to water policy-making is crucial for effective water resources management. This approach is expected to yield tangible benefits for water management in Egypt and beyond.
According to Minister Suwelim, his ministry has made significant progress in resolving citizen complaints. He reported that 97.22% of complaints received since January 2026 have been resolved. This achievement underscores the ministry's commitment to responsive and efficient service delivery.
The meeting between Minister Suwelim and Regional Director Coster reflects the ongoing efforts to strengthen partnerships between Egypt and international organizations like UNESCO. By enhancing cooperation in water resources management and scientific research, Egypt aims to address pressing challenges related to water security and climate change. This collaboration is poised to yield long-term benefits for sustainable development in the region.
Key points
- Egypt's Minister of Water Resources and Irrigation, Hani Suwelim, met with UNESCO's Regional Director for the Arab States, Paul Coster, to enhance cooperation in scientific research and sustainable water management.
- The two officials discussed potential areas of cooperation to support the African Water and Climate Adaptation Center (PACWA) in building the capacities of African cadres.
- Minister Suwelim reported that 97.22% of citizen complaints received since January 2026 have been resolved, highlighting the ministry's commitment to responsive service delivery.
