New York:Water security is a strategic priority for Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) member states, according to Secretary General Jasem Mohamed Albudaiwi. This priority extends beyond environmental concerns, impacting human security, economic prosperity, food security, and energy security, thus serving as a fundamental element of societal stability and resilience.
According to Qatar News Agency, Albudaiwi made these remarks during a panel session titled "Water as a Strategic Imperative From Global Challenges to Collective Action," organized by the Permanent Mission of the United Arab Emirates to the United Nations. The session took place during the 81st session of the UN General Assembly in New York.
Albudaiwi noted that while water scarcity has been a longstanding challenge in the Gulf region, it has also spurred innovation and collaboration among GCC states. These nations have developed expertise in areas such as desalination, wastewater reuse, demand management, and advanced technologies, linking water security with energy, food security, and sustainable economic development.
He emphasized that technology alone cannot ensure water security, highlighting the importance of regional cooperation and joint initiatives. Albudaiwi discussed the development of collective mechanisms, policies, and programs by GCC countries to protect water resources, including ongoing efforts to create a regional water grid interconnection aimed at enhancing supply security and response capabilities during crises.
The Secretary General also pointed out the increasing pressures on global water systems due to climate change, demographic growth, economic transitions, and rising demand for resources. He advocated for shared solutions to shared water challenges, suggesting that multilateral cooperation can foster mutual trust, reduce vulnerabilities, create economic opportunities, and enhance regional stability.
Albudaiwi called for leveraging innovation and technologies like artificial intelligence, digital transformation, smart water management systems, and renewable energy to improve efficiency and resilience. He also recommended collaborative financing models that bring together governments, development institutions, research centers, and the private sector to develop scalable and bankable infrastructure projects.