Saudi Arabia and Senegal have urged for enhanced international collaboration to tackle escalating global water challenges such as scarcity, rising demand, and limited access to safe water. This call was made during a high-level event at the United Nations General Assembly, where Saudi Deputy Minister for International Multilateral Affairs Abdulrahman Al-Rassi emphasized the importance of treating water security as a key issue for international security, economic development, and community resilience.
Al-Rassi highlighted that addressing the global water crisis requires more than just increasing water availability, advocating for improved governance, technology, accessibility, and international cooperation. He pointed to Saudi Arabia’s initiatives in managing water scarcity through technological advancements, desalination, and its National Water Strategy 2030 as examples of effective measures.
Senegal echoed the need for prioritizing water in international policymaking, noting the intersection of water challenges with climate change, economic development, and social stability. The discussions underscored the significance of collaboration over shared water resources, with Senegal illustrating transboundary water management as an effective model for countries to collectively address common issues.
Retno Marsudi, the UN’s special envoy on water, remarked on the slow progress towards achieving the Sustainable Development Goal on water and sanitation. She highlighted the stark reality that millions worldwide still lack access to safe drinking water and adequate sanitation, stressing the urgency for stronger global action.
Saudi Arabia is set to host the 11th World Water Forum in March 2027, while Senegal and the United Arab Emirates will co-host the 2026 UN Water Conference in Abu Dhabi, further underscoring the ongoing international efforts to address water security challenges.
