Cairo:Egypt and Iraq are taking significant steps to strengthen their collaboration in managing water resources, as highlighted during a meeting between Egypt's Minister of Water Resources and Irrigation, Hani Sewilam, and Iraqi Minister of Water Resources, Muthanna Al-Tamimi. The discussion took place on the sidelines of the ninth Cairo Water Week.

According to State Information Service Egypt, the ministers focused on advancing bilateral cooperation and exchanging expertise in water resources management and irrigation. They reviewed the progress of a memorandum of understanding (MoU) that outlines a framework for cooperation in areas such as water resources and river basin management, modern irrigation, water treatment and reuse, water quality improvement, and more.

Both ministers emphasized the importance of implementing the MoU's provisions through practical programs and activities. They acknowledged the joint steering committee's role in overseeing the implementation process. Sewilam noted the progress made in training cooperation, especially the first training program on 'Non-Conventional Water Resources Management,' which was attended by 19 Iraqi trainees.

Sewilam reiterated Egypt's commitment to sharing its expertise in modern water resources management, including the use of advanced technologies such as artificial intelligence, remote sensing, and unmanned aerial vehicles. He also expressed Egypt's willingness to meet Iraq's technical and training needs through expertise exchange and specialized training programs.

The meeting also included discussions on an upcoming visit by an Iraqi delegation to Egypt. This visit aims to explore Egypt's experience in irrigation, canal rehabilitation, and wastewater treatment, providing opportunities for further cooperation and mutual benefit.

The ninth Cairo Water Week is witnessing extensive participation from international and regional organizations, including the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO), the European Union, UNESCO, and others, reflecting the event's growing partnerships.