Monday, 25 May 2026
Egypt and Bahrain strengthen cooperation on water management
Egypt and Bahrain have reaffirmed their commitment to enhancing collaboration in water resources management, recognizing the shared challenges both countries face regarding water scarcity.
During a recent high-level meeting in Cairo, Egypt’s Minister of Water Resources and Irrigation, Dr. Hani Sewilam, welcomed Bahrain’s Minister of Works, Ibrahim Al-Hawaj. The two ministers discussed strategic avenues for future cooperation, including exchanging best practices and successful experiences in water management.
Dr. Sewilam expressed Egypt’s keen interest in deepening partnerships with Bahrain and other Arab nations, emphasizing the importance of innovation and knowledge-sharing to improve water management in the region. He presented Egypt’s ongoing initiatives, such as adopting advanced technologies, accelerating digital transformation in irrigation, expanding water treatment and reuse, and using desalination to boost food production—all aimed at addressing the pressing issues of water and food security.
Minister Al-Hawaj echoed this sentiment, noting that both Egypt and Bahrain contend with similar water challenges. He stressed that close collaboration is essential for developing effective solutions, particularly in light of the increasing pressure on water resources in the Arab world.
Both sides agreed to bolster cooperation in several key areas, including:
- Advancing water treatment processes
- Sharing Egyptian expertise in water reuse
- Exploring desalination as a sustainable solution for intensive food production
- Leveraging modern technologies—such as artificial intelligence, satellite imagery, and mathematical modeling—for efficient water management
Additionally, the two countries will work together to build capacity and train professionals in water-related fields, taking full advantage of the capabilities of Egypt’s Regional Training Center for Water Resources and Irrigation.
This meeting marks a significant step forward in fostering regional solidarity and innovation, aiming to secure a more sustainable water future for both nations and the wider Arab region.