Saudi Arabia and Senegal have jointly called for enhanced international cooperation to tackle the escalating global water challenges, emphasizing that water security is critical for international stability, economic growth, and community resilience. This appeal was made during a high-level session at the United Nations General Assembly, where Saudi Deputy Minister for International Multilateral Affairs Abdulrahman Al-Rassi underscored the multifaceted nature of the water crisis.
Al-Rassi highlighted that addressing the global water crisis requires more comprehensive solutions than merely boosting water availability. He advocated for improved governance, technological advancements, better accessibility, and stronger international collaboration. Drawing from Saudi Arabia’s own experience, Al-Rassi pointed to the kingdom’s success in managing water scarcity through desalination and technological investments under its National Water Strategy 2030.
Senegal echoed the call for water to be prioritized in international policy discussions, stressing its increasing intersection with climate change, economic development, and social stability. The discussions at the UN event emphasized the necessity of cooperation over shared water resources, with Senegal citing transboundary water management as an effective means for countries to jointly address water-related challenges.
The discussions were further supported by UN Special Envoy on Water, Retno Marsudi, who warned that progress toward achieving the Sustainable Development Goal on water and sanitation is currently too slow. Marsudi highlighted that millions globally still lack access to safe drinking water and adequate sanitation, underscoring the urgent need for more robust collective action.
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, signaling ongoing global efforts to address these pressing issues.