Saudi Crown Prince and Prime Minister Mohammed bin Salman emphasized the critical need for global collaboration to tackle water-related challenges during his address at the One Water Summit in Riyadh on Tuesday. Highlighting Saudi Arabia's commitment to sustainable water management, he revealed that the Kingdom has funded over $6 billion for more than 200 water development projects across 60 developing countries.
Prince Mohammed noted the world is facing escalating challenges in the water sector, including rising drought rates, water shortages, and worsening desertification. These issues pose significant threats to human lives and societies. He called for joint international efforts to develop plans ensuring the sustainability and effective management of water resources.
The Crown Prince underlined Saudi Arabia's leadership role in addressing global water issues, pointing to the inclusion of water challenges in the G20 Work Plan for the first time during the Kingdom's presidency in 2020. He also announced Saudi Arabia's plans to host the 11th session of the Global Water Forum in 2027, further solidifying its commitment to this vital sector.
In addition, he highlighted the establishment of the Global Water Organization, headquartered in Riyadh, as a step toward comprehensive global cooperation. The organization aims to tackle water-related challenges by fostering the exchange of expertise, promoting innovative technologies, and enhancing research and development. The Crown Prince urged UN member states, international organizations, and the private sector to join the initiative, emphasizing its potential to unify efforts and provide inclusive solutions.
Organized alongside the 16th session of the Conference of the Parties to the United Nations Convention to Combat Desertification (COP16), the water summit reflects Saudi Arabia’s dedication to addressing climate and environmental issues. The Crown Prince expressed optimism that collective global efforts would lead to sustainable solutions to water challenges and achieve the desired outcomes for this critical sector.
