5th Istanbul International Water Forum Concludes, Addressing Global Water Challenges
Istanbul, May 6 – The 5th Istanbul International Water Forum (IUSF), organized by the Turkish Water Institute (SUEN), concluded today following two days of extensive discussions on regional and global water challenges. The forum, held at the Lütfi Kırdar International Congress and Exhibition Center, focused on the theme of “Strengthening Water Resilience: From Innovation to Action.”
The event brought together water experts, policymakers, academics, and representatives from public and private sectors from around the world, including nine ministers and eight deputy ministers. Discussions centered on the multifaceted issues of water crisis, climate change, and water management.
Key Discussions and Outcomes
A special session titled “11th World Water Forum Special Session: From Istanbul to Riyadh” was held during the IUSF. Ebubekir Gizligider, Deputy Minister of Agriculture and Forestry, spoke at the panel, emphasizing the need for efficient water use. He highlighted that the recommendations emerging from the 5th Istanbul International Water Forum would contribute significantly to all processes of the 11th World Water Forum. Gizligider expressed satisfaction that Turkey had undertaken the coordination of the ‘Water for People and Ecosystems’ sub-theme, one of the six main themes of the 11th World Water Forum.
Dr. Abdulaziz bin Muhareb Al-Shibani, Saudi Arabia’s Deputy Minister for Water Affairs, underscored the importance of collaborative action for a better future, stating, “It is important for us that these processes are shaped as a result of cooperation. In addition, water management and diplomacy are particularly crucial.”
Loic Fauchon, President of the World Water Council, noted Istanbul’s significant role in water forums. He stated, “Today we are not only looking here. We are also looking at the forum to be held in Riyadh in 2027, and we are addressing our shared responsibility here. This forum will continue its journey with the same actions designed for a better future.”
Focus on Circular Approaches and Climate Resilience
The final day of the forum featured special sessions on topics such as “Blue Peace in the Middle East: From Dialogue to Investment: Enabling Climate Resilient Financing in Transboundary Water Cooperation,” “The Future of Water: Towards the 20th World Water Congress,” and “ISKI Good Practices in Water Management in Metropolitan Cities.”
Throughout the day, panels addressed strengthening capacity for water resilience, integrated frameworks for disaster risk management, adapting water, sanitation, and hygiene services to climate challenges, and circular approaches in water management, from wastewater to source water.
Revitalization and Future Plans
The forum was reactivated in 2024 following a hiatus due to the COVID-19 pandemic, based on a decision made at the National Water Council chaired by Minister of Agriculture and Forestry İbrahim Yumaklı. It was planned by SUEN, the General Directorate of State Hydraulic Works, the General Directorate of Water Management, and the General Directorate of European Union and Foreign Relations.
The two-day event provided a crucial platform for discussing and addressing water-related issues that are gaining increasing importance globally. The insights and recommendations from the forum are expected to inform future policies and strategies for sustainable water management and resilience.
Source: https://www.ensondakika.com.tr/5-istanbul-uluslararasi-su-forumu-sona-erdi/636544/
