6th Arab Water Conference addresses critical water management issues

AMMAN — The Sixth Arab Water Conference, held under the theme "Governance Toward Achieving Sustainable Development in Water," kicked off on Wednesday at the Dead Sea area, bringing together key stakeholders from across the Arab world to address escalating water challenges.

During the two-day event, Arab water ministers, officials, experts, and decision-makers from the region and beyond will address critical water management issues and explore innovative solutions to safeguard one of the region's most vital resources.

Opening the conference on behalf of Prime Minister Jaafar Hassan, Minister of Water and Irrigation Raed Abul Saud highlighted Jordan's proactive measures to address water scarcity.

"Jordan has achieved tangible success in pioneering models and initiatives by partnering with local communities and the private sector," Abul Saud said, adding that these efforts have reduced water losses, improved management and expanded the use of treated wastewater as a sustainable resource.

The minister highlighted the importance of the Red Sea-Dead Sea Water Conveyance Project (the National Carrier) as a strategic initiative to desalinate water from the Red Sea to meet Jordan's growing water needs, improve irrigation efficiency, and promote water conservation awareness.

Highlighting the region’s "heavy" reliance on external water sources, Abul Saud said that 60 per cent of the Arab water sources come from outside its borders.

Climate change, severe water scarcity, resource depletion, and regional conflicts are exacerbating the crisis, which is further aggravated by the influx of refugees, the minister added.

He cited UN studies showing that 12 Arab countries fall below the threshold of severe water poverty of 500 cubic meters per capita per year, according to World Health Organisation standards.

"External water sources for some Arab countries are threatened by the actions of upstream states," he warned, urging Arab nations to work jointly to address common challenges, and stressing the need for collective water initiatives and improved governance frameworks.

The conference agenda features plenary sessions, panel discussions, scientific forums, and the Arab Water Exhibition.