The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia stressed the need to enhance water security by supporting resource management, water projects and infrastructure in the countries of the Organization of Islamic Cooperation, and moving from the planning stages to tangible results that improve access to water and support sustainability goals.
Enhancing water security: From "vision to impact"
During the opening of the fifth session of the Conference of Ministers Responsible for Water (OIC) in Jeddah, Minister of Environment, Water and Agriculture, Engineer Abdulrahman Al-Fadhli, emphasized that water security is a cornerstone of development and the well-being of nations. He explained that population and economic growth, coupled with climate change, are increasing water demand and raising the risks of drought, floods, and other disasters, necessitating practical solutions that enhance water use efficiency, develop infrastructure, and secure adequate funding.
Practical work plans for member states
The conference called for the adoption of innovative financing tools for water supply and sanitation projects, expanding the exchange of expertise and knowledge, and completing training, operation, and maintenance programs. The Minister commended the role of the Islamic Development Bank and other financial institutions in financing projects, noting the continuity of efforts since the "Water Vision 2012," the outcomes of the Cairo Conference (2018), and the 2025 Action Plan, which outlined the framework for cooperation in resource management.
The Saudi model for water management
Al-Fadhli reviewed the features of the national experience, noting that the Kingdom adopted a comprehensive water strategy and implemented a water system as a legislative and regulatory framework, alongside supporting technological innovation and mitigating the effects of climate change. He pointed out that the United Nations documented these steps in its case study on integrated water management published this year, reflecting the applicability and adaptability of this experience to the contexts of member states.
Global Water Organization in Riyadh
The Minister noted the Crown Prince's announcement of the establishment of a global water organization headquartered in Riyadh, an international platform for mobilizing efforts and addressing water challenges from an integrated perspective, with an invitation to all countries to join. The proposed entity provides a scientific and operational framework for coordinating initiatives, mobilizing funding, and standardizing measurement and monitoring methodologies.
World Water Forum 2027: “Working for a better tomorrow”
The Kingdom, in cooperation with the World Water Council, will host the 11th World Water Forum in Riyadh in 2027 under the theme “Working for a Better Tomorrow .” The forum aims to develop strategic plans that enhance water security, expand partnerships with scientific institutions, and support capacity building at various levels, while inviting member states and the private sector to participate and formulate actionable steps.
Gaza: Water scarcity at a critical stage
Ambassador Samir Bakr, Assistant Secretary-General of the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC), affirmed that water scarcity has reached a critical stage in Gaza and Palestine in general due to the extensive destruction of infrastructure. He called for intensified humanitarian efforts to ensure access to safe drinking water and sanitation services. He commended the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia's leading role in the water sector and its launch of the Global Water Organization (GWO) in Riyadh, recognizing its impact on fostering innovation, research, and the development of sustainable solutions.
Summary: From planning to execution
The conference outlines a roadmap that moves the water security from vision to impact, through clear financing, governance, and legislative models, and international and regional partnerships led by the Kingdom. With institutional initiatives in Riyadh and the hosting of the 2027 Forum, opportunities are enhanced to transform cooperation into measurable projects that improve water and sanitation services and support public health and sustainable development in member states.
