Cairo: Minister of Water Resources and Irrigation Hani Sewilam emphasized Egypt's appreciation for Finland's contribution to supporting water-related issues on the international stage. He highlighted the importance of bolstering cooperation and exchanging perspectives between Egypt and Finland to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals and enhance the interconnectedness among water, climate, food, and energy.
According to State Information Service Egypt, these remarks were made during a virtual meeting between Sewilam and Finland's Special Envoy for Water, Antti Rautavaara. Finland's Ambassador to Egypt, Riikka Eela, was also present in the meeting, which was part of ongoing consultations and coordination regarding water issues and the preparations for the 2026 United Nations Water Conference.
During the discussions on the UN Water Conference preparations, Sewilam conveyed Egypt's gratitude for Finland's leadership in the fourth interactive dialogue on transboundary water cooperation. He emphasized the necessity of ensuring that the concept note adheres to established principles governing cooperation in this field, including the principles of causing no harm, prior notification, and consultation.
Sewilam also highlighted the need for coordination among the various interactive dialogues of the conference, including the ideas being developed by Egypt and Japan within the 'Water for the Planet' dialogue. These ideas encompass issues concerning the water cycle and green water, a roadmap for water within the Rio Conventions, early warning systems, disaster risk reduction, and enhancing communities' ability to adapt.
The minister welcomed Finland's anticipated participation in the Ninth Cairo Water Week, set to occur next October. He mentioned that a specialized program on the UN Water Conference is being prepared as part of the event to promote convergence and coordination among the different interactive dialogues, exchange views on proposed initiatives, and develop a shared vision for the conference preparations.