The 9th India International Water Week 2026 recently took place in New Delhi, featuring a roundtable discussion with ambassadors from African countries. The event highlighted India's commitment to collaborating with African nations to achieve Sustainable Development Goal 6 and enhance climate-resilient water security. This initiative aligns with the African Union's 2026 theme of ensuring sustainable water availability and safe sanitation systems.
The roundtable discussion aimed to strengthen partnerships and accelerate the implementation of SDG 6, focusing on inclusive and climate-resilient water security that aligns with Africa's development and climate priorities. India's Ministry of External Affairs spokesperson, Randhir Jaiswal, emphasized India's readiness to work with African countries. The Jal Jeevan Mission also participated in the event, welcoming African delegates, development partners, and international representatives.
On the sidelines of the 81st session of the UN General Assembly in New York, India's Foreign Secretary, Vikram Misri, met with the UN Secretary-General's Special Representative for Afghanistan. They discussed addressing the humanitarian needs of the Afghan people, with Misri appreciating the role of UNAMA and extending India's continued cooperation. Jaiswal also met with Alexandre Zouev, Acting Under-Secretary-General for Counter-Terrorism, to deepen cooperation on counter-terrorism.
India's Secretary (West), Sibi George, met with Abdulla Ahmed Balalaa, UAE Assistant Minister of Foreign Affairs for Energy and Sustainability. They discussed the growing momentum in India-UAE cooperation on sustainability and explored ways to strengthen bilateral cooperation in sustainable technologies, including water management. The two sides also looked forward to the UAE convening a successful UN Water Conference in Abu Dhabi in December 2026.
These meetings demonstrate India's continued engagement with international partners on water security, sustainability, humanitarian concerns, and counter-terrorism. India's efforts to collaborate with African countries and the UAE on water security and sustainability are crucial in achieving the Sustainable Development Goals. The India International Water Week 2026 provided a platform for India to reaffirm its commitment to working with international partners on these critical issues.
India's engagement with the UAE on sustainability is also significant, given the UAE's role in convening the UN Water Conference in Abu Dhabi. The conference aims to address global water challenges and promote sustainable water management practices. India's cooperation with the UAE on sustainable technologies, including water management, is expected to yield positive outcomes.
The meetings and discussions that took place during the 9th India International Water Week 2026 and the UN General Assembly in New York highlight India's proactive approach to addressing global challenges. By engaging with African countries and the UAE on water security and sustainability, India is contributing to the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals and promoting a more sustainable future.
Key points
- India is working with African countries to accelerate the implementation of Sustainable Development Goal 6 and advance climate-resilient water security.
- India and the UAE are exploring avenues to strengthen bilateral cooperation in sustainable technologies, including water management.
- The India International Water Week 2026 provided a platform for India to engage with international partners on water security and sustainability.
