Syria, represented by Minister of Agriculture Amjad Badr and Assistant Minister of Energy for Water Resources Osama Abu Zaid, took part in the Eighth Cairo Water Week (CWW), held in Egypt under the theme “Innovative Solutions for Climate Resilience and Water Sustainability.” The event brings together officials, researchers, and organizations from across the Arab region and beyond.
CWW serves as a platform connecting public and private sector leaders with scientific and policy institutions to discuss strategies for water and irrigation management. It also aims to foster partnerships with UN agencies, the EU, civil society organizations, and government institutions to promote sustainable resource management.
Advancing Water and Food Security in Syria
Minister Badr discussed the current state of Syria’s agricultural sector, emphasizing the urgent need to establish comprehensive strategies and policies to preserve and rationalize water resources amid climate change and recurring droughts. He called for collective Arab and regional efforts to ensure both water and food security, describing them as inseparable national priorities.
Assistant Minister Abu Zaid, speaking during a session organized by the Islamic Network for Water Resource Development, highlighted the interconnectedness of the water, energy, and food sectors. He underscored the importance of adopting an integrated management approach to achieve sustainability and enhance water security.
Abu Zaid also stressed the value of regional cooperation and experience sharing, noting that addressing common challenges requires collective action and unified strategies to ensure the optimal use of natural resources.
Tackling Groundwater and Climate Challenges
Dr. Nasseruddin al-Obeid, Director General of the Arab Center for the Studies of Arid Zones and Dry Lands (ACSAD), participated in discussions under the theme “Facing Groundwater Challenges within the Framework of the Arab Water Security Strategy.” The session examined issues such as over-extraction, pollution, and the effects of climate change, while emphasizing the importance of scientific research, innovation, and regional cooperation in shaping sustainable groundwater management policies.
Participants presented successful models from several Arab and international experiences in groundwater conservation and outlined key steps to enhance Arab water security through joint scientific initiatives and shared policy frameworks.
Climate Adaptation and Innovation for the Future
Other sessions at CWW focused on climate adaptation and resilience, exploring nature-based and innovative solutions for mitigating climate risks. Discussions included the legacy of the National Water Research Center, the future of water resource management, and strategies to strengthen sustainable infrastructure in response to environmental challenges.
Among the participants was Egyptian Minister of Agriculture Alaa Farouk, along with officials, experts, and academics from Arab and international institutions specializing in agriculture, irrigation, and food security.
Commitment to Regional and Global Engagement
The meetings of Cairo Water Week aimed to exchange knowledge and enhance cooperation to achieve global water security and sustainable development, emphasizing innovation, climate action, and cross-border collaboration.
Syria’s participation reflects the ongoing efforts of the Ministries of Agriculture and Energy to support regional and international initiatives promoting sustainable development. It also reaffirms Syria’s commitment to active engagement in global forums addressing water challenges, working toward shared solutions that ensure resource sustainability and regional stability.
