Saudi Crown Prince inaugurates One Water Summit to tackle global water challenges

Riyadh: His Royal Highness Prince Mohammed bin Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, Crown Prince and Prime Minister of Saudi Arabia, inaugurated the One Water Summit today. The event, held under the joint chairmanship of HRH the Crown Prince alongside French President Emmanuel Macron, Kazakhstan President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev and World Bank President Ajay Banga, brings together leaders, international organizations and stakeholders to tackle pressing global water challenges.

In his opening remarks, the Crown Prince emphasized the urgency of addressing water scarcity and its related environmental challenges.

"The world today faces increasing challenges in the water sector, among which growing drought that threatens the availability of usable water, exacerbates desertification and poses risks to human life and society. This situation calls for collective efforts to devise plans that ensure the sustainability of water resources," he stated.

The summit aligns with Saudi Arabia's efforts to address global environmental issues, including hosting the 16th Conference of the Parties of the United Nations Convention to Combat Desertification (UNCCD COP16). The Crown Prince highlighted the Kingdom's proactive role, noting its $6 billion commitment to over 200 water development projects across 60 developing countries. He also underscored Saudi Arabia's leadership in incorporating water issues into the G20 agenda during its 2020 presidency.

Looking forward, the Crown Prince announced the establishment of a global water organization in Riyadh to unify efforts in addressing water challenges.

"This organization will focus on tackling water-related issues worldwide by harmonizing international efforts, fostering comprehensive solutions, and promoting the exchange of expertise and innovative technologies in this sector," he said.

Saudi Arabia is also set to host the 11th World Water Forum in 2027 in collaboration with the World Water Council.

The One Water Summit aims to generate actionable solutions to the water crisis, addressing challenges such as climate change, biodiversity loss, and pollution. It also serves as a preparatory platform for the United Nations Water Conference scheduled for 2026. The Crown Prince called on international organizations and the private sector to collaborate in these efforts, expressing hope for meaningful progress.

"We hope that the international community's collective efforts in addressing water challenges will help us achieve our aspirations in this vital field," he concluded.