Amman, May 19 (Petra) – The Ministry of Water and Irrigation held talks on Monday with representatives from the Dutch Directorate-General for International Cooperation (DGIS) to explore cooperation on strategic water projects that Jordan plans to implement, including the national water carrier project aimed at securing additional sustainable water resources.

During a meeting with a Dutch delegation led by Pascalle Grotenhuis, Minister of Water and Irrigation Raed Abu Saud outlined the scope of water-related challenges facing the Kingdom. He said that climate change, population growth, and the presence of hundreds of thousands of refugees continue to widen the gap between water supply and demand.

Abu Saud reviewed Jordan’s experience in integrated water resource management, efforts to reduce water loss through partnerships with the private sector, and the adoption of energy efficiency programs to lower energy costs in the water sector. He also emphasized the Kingdom’s expanded use of treated wastewater and long-term strategic projects designed to sustainably address the water crisis.

The Minister highlighted that climate change and below-average rainfall this year have intensified water burdens, underlining the importance of strengthening partnerships with the private sector, promoting smart agriculture, improving irrigation efficiency, expanding water harvesting programs, and drilling additional wells to meet summer demand.

He praised the robust cooperation with the Netherlands and its ongoing support for Jordan’s water sector, expressing appreciation for Dutch interest in expanding this support.

Grotenhuis commended Jordan’s outstanding efforts in supplying water to both citizens and refugees, as well as the Kingdom’s humanitarian response. She noted that Jordan has managed to effectively navigate its water challenges despite limited resources.

The Dutch official affirmed her country’s willingness to continue supporting Jordan’s flagship water projects and to strengthen bilateral cooperation in the sector.

//Petra// AJ
19/05/2025 15:13:17