UAE Advocates for Global Water Cooperation at Istanbul Forum

Abdulla Balalaa, the UAE's Assistant Minister of Foreign Affairs for Energy and Sustainability, participated in the 5th Istanbul International Water Forum, themed “Strengthening Water Resilience: Innovation to Action.”

The forum gathered ministers, senior officials, and experts to tackle worldwide water issues. Discussions spanned technology, finance, agriculture, health, and the need for cross-sector partnerships to enhance water management globally.

During a high-level ministerial dialogue titled “Paradigm Shift in a Changing World: Water and the Bridging Power of Istanbul,” Balalaa emphasized the need to improve water valuation and management, underlining cooperation, dialogue, and innovation as critical factors in addressing water challenges.

In his address, Balalaa reiterated the UAE's dedication to global water cooperation, highlighting the important role of water diplomacy in transforming shared challenges into actionable partnerships.

He also announced the UAE's co-hosting of the 2026 UN Water Conference alongside Senegal, expressing a commitment to ensuring the conference yields tangible results and strengthens partnerships responsive to various countries' needs.

On the forum's sidelines, Balalaa engaged in bilateral meetings with Turkish officials to discuss enhancing water resilience, energy initiatives, and sustainability efforts.

Additionally, he participated in a private ministerial roundtable titled “Dialogue on Water Resilience,” chaired by Türkiye's Minister of Agriculture and Forestry, İbrahim Yumaklı, which explored national water risks, policies, and the significance of regional and global collaboration.

Balalaa praised Türkiye for hosting the forum, noting that its results would significantly impact future global events, including the 2026 UN Water Conference and COP31 in Antalya.

He concluded by stating that water resilience is a paramount priority for the UAE and a collective global obligation, expressing eagerness for collaboration with Türkiye, Senegal, and international partners to foster a more sustainable future.