Egyptian Minister of Water Resources and Irrigation Hani Suwelim met with Alain Mesionnie, head of the Mediterranean Water Institute (IME), to discuss preparations for the 2026 UN Water Conference. The meeting took place during the 9th Cairo Water Week. The two officials aimed to enhance joint coordination and preparations for the conference. They sought to unify views on water issues to be addressed at the conference.
Minister Suwelim emphasized the importance of enhancing consultation and exchanging views between concerned parties on water issues. He also stressed the need for intensified joint coordination during preparations for the conference. This aims to crystallize converging positions on priority water issues and enhance international cooperation. The goal is to support achieving sustainable development goals related to water.
Suwelim pointed out the importance of unifying messages and priorities to be presented during the conference tracks. This would enhance integration among different topics and support reaching operational outputs. These outputs should reflect countries' needs and the water challenges they face. Egypt and Japan are co-chairing the interactive dialogue "Water for the Planet" within the conference.
The interactive dialogue seeks to enhance the interconnection between water issues, climate change, land degradation, and biodiversity. This would support integrating international efforts to address environmental and water challenges. Suwelim confirmed Egypt's keenness to enhance cooperation with international partners and water-related institutions during the final preparatory stage of the conference.
The goal is to ensure unified views and enhanced consistency among positions and proposals. This would support the conference's success and achieve its desired outcomes. The 2026 UN Water Conference is a significant event that requires concerted efforts. Egypt is playing an active role in preparations for the conference.
Minister Suwelim's meeting with Mesionnie is part of Egypt's efforts to engage with international partners on water issues. Egypt is committed to addressing water challenges and promoting sustainable water management practices. The country's efforts are geared towards achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
The 2026 UN Water Conference will provide a platform for countries to share experiences and best practices in water management. Egypt's participation in the conference is expected to contribute to the development of effective solutions to global water challenges. The conference will also provide opportunities for countries to strengthen cooperation and partnerships on water issues.
Key points
- Egypt's Minister of Water Resources and Irrigation Hani Suwelim met with Mediterranean Water Institute head Alain Mesionnie to discuss preparations for the 2026 UN Water Conference.
