Saudi Arabia and Senegal are urging for enhanced global cooperation to tackle pressing water security challenges, which include water scarcity, increasing demand, and restricted access to safe water. This call to action 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 critical nature of water security in relation to international security, economic development, and community resilience.
Al-Rassi underscored the necessity for a comprehensive approach to the global water crisis, advocating for improved governance, technology, accessibility, and international cooperation, beyond merely increasing water availability. He pointed to Saudi Arabia’s proactive measures in managing water scarcity through desalination, technological investments, and the implementation of its National Water Strategy 2030 as a model.
Senegal echoed this sentiment, calling for water-related issues to be prioritized in international policymaking, especially as they are increasingly linked with climate change, economic progress, and social stability. The discussions underscored the value of collaboration over shared water resources, with Senegal highlighting transboundary water management as an effective means for countries to address common challenges collectively.
The UN’s special envoy on water, Retno Marsudi, also expressed concern over the slow progress towards achieving the Sustainable Development Goal on water and sanitation. She highlighted that millions worldwide still lack access to safe drinking water and adequate sanitation, stressing the need for intensified collective efforts.
Looking ahead, 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. These upcoming events are expected to further the dialogue and action needed to address global water security challenges.