New York:Minister of Water Resources of the Government of National Unity, Hosni Oweidan, took part in a high-level meeting in New York on the sidelines of the 81st session of the United Nations General Assembly. The meeting, themed 'Water for Humanity - Science-Based Leadership in an Era of Climate and Development Transformation,' was held at the invitation of the Permanent Representative to the United Nations of the Intergovernmental Agency for Water and Sanitation in All Africa (WSA).
According to Libyan News Agency, the meeting was attended by various ministers, government officials, ambassadors, experts, and representatives from international organizations and partners. Representatives from Libya's Mission to the United Nations were present as well.
Minister Oweidan delivered Libya's statement, underscoring that water is not only a natural resource but also the foundation of life and a vital component for health, food security, economic development, stability, and peace. He emphasized that achieving water security requires collective responsibility through international, regional, and national partnerships grounded in science, knowledge, and innovation.
The Minister stressed that resilience to climate change in the water sector is necessary for development and security. He called for effective and actionable water partnerships focusing on water security, water supply and sanitation, adaptation, investment and financing, science and innovation, and capacity building.
He also shared insights into Libya's efforts in transferring water from desert areas, integrated water resources management, and the management of shared groundwater basins. The Ministry noted that the meeting addressed priority issues in the water and sanitation sector, challenges related to water security and sustainable development, and the importance of strengthening international partnerships.