Egypt and Iraq Deepen Water Management Cooperation Amidst Shared Challenges

Egypt and Iraq are set to bolster their collaboration in managing water resources, a move underscored by the longstanding historical and fraternal ties between the two nations. Hani Sewilam, Egypt's Minister of Water Resources and Irrigation, affirmed Cairo's dedication to enhancing bilateral cooperation to effectively tackle water-related challenges and boost the efficiency of water management systems.

These discussions took place during a meeting with Iraq's Minister of Water Resources, Muthanna Al-Tamimi, on the sidelines of the ninth Cairo Water Week. The talks centered on expanding joint efforts and knowledge exchange in the critical areas of water resources management and irrigation.

The ministers reviewed the progress made in implementing a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between their respective ministries. This MoU serves as a foundational framework for cooperation encompassing water resources, river basin management, modern irrigation techniques, water treatment and reuse, water quality enhancement, control of aquatic weeds, coastal protection, and crucial training and capacity-building initiatives.

Both sides emphasized the necessity of accelerating the MoU's implementation, translating its clauses into tangible programs and actionable activities. The role of the joint steering committee in overseeing and following up on these implementation efforts was also highlighted.

Minister Sewilam pointed to advancements in training cooperation, specifically mentioning the inaugural training program for Iraqi participants titled “Non-Conventional Water Resources Management.” This two-week program saw 19 Iraqi trainees participate at the Regional Training Center for Water Resources and Irrigation.

Sewilam reiterated Egypt's willingness to share its expertise and successful strategies with Iraq. This includes best practices in modern water resources management, the development of irrigation systems, the treatment and reuse of agricultural drainage water, and the application of cutting-edge technologies. These advanced technologies, such as artificial intelligence, remote sensing, geographic information systems (GIS), telemetry systems, and unmanned aerial vehicles, are vital for supporting informed decision-making and improving the operational efficiency of water systems.

Furthermore, the Ministry of Water Resources and Irrigation expressed its readiness to address Iraq's technical and training requirements through continued expertise exchange and specialized training programs and workshops. Sewilam extended an invitation for an Iraqi delegation to visit Egypt, offering an opportunity to learn firsthand about Egypt's experiences in irrigation, the management of barrages, pumping stations, and hydropower plants, canal rehabilitation, and wastewater treatment. Such a visit, he noted, would foster broader avenues for practical cooperation and enable mutual benefit from the expertise held by both countries.

The ninth Cairo Water Week is a significant event, featuring extensive participation from international and regional organizations. These entities are organizing a total of 137 technical and scientific sessions and sponsoring various competitions. Notable participating organizations include the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO), the European Union, the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO), the International Water Management Institute (IWMI), the Inter-Islamic Network on Water Resources Development and Management (INWRDAM), the German Agency for International Cooperation (GIZ), and the World Water Council, underscoring the event's growing global partnerships.