Egypt's Minister of Water Resources and Irrigation Hani Sewilam urged a global partnership on non-conventional water resources and more financing for developing countries during a meeting in Jeddah.
Sewilam made the call at a ministerial consultation held as part of the inaugural Saudi Water Week. The meeting served as preparation for the 11th World Water Forum, which is scheduled for Riyadh in March 2027.
He highlighted water security as essential for sustainable development, food security and climate resilience. Sewilam also presented Egypt's Water 2.0 programme, which targets expanded treatment, desalination and smart management systems.
The minister stressed the need for cooperation on shared rivers under international law and called for better efficiency in agriculture. He proposed that the forum deliver practical results including an international initiative for young water leaders.