Egypt’s Minister of Water Resources and Irrigation, Hani Sweilem, held a virtual meeting with Eric Mamer, Director-General for Environment at the European Commission, and EU Ambassador to Egypt, Angelina Eichhorst, to explore ways of strengthening cooperation under the EU-Egypt Water Partnership Declaration, signed in November 2023, the ministry announced.
The discussions focused on ongoing and future areas of collaboration aligned with Egypt’s “Irrigation System 2.0” strategy and the EU’s approach to water sector resilience. Both sides also reviewed the joint work program for 2025–2027 and preparations for the 8th Cairo Water Week, where the EU is expected to play a significant role.
Minister Sweilem highlighted the progress achieved in consolidating the strategic partnership with the EU, reaffirming Egypt’s commitment to continued coordination and the identification of fundable projects that align with national water priorities.
He also emphasized Egypt’s determination to build on its global leadership in water-related issues, citing its co-chairmanship with Japan of the third interactive dialogue on water and climate, and coordination with the EU during the 2023 UN Water Conference, where the EU co-chaired the session on “Water for Sustainable Development.” Sweilem confirmed Egypt’s intention to deepen this cooperation in the lead-up to the 2026 UN Water Conference.
The EU-Egypt Water Partnership Declaration seeks to support sustainable water resource management in Egypt by leveraging European technological, scientific, and administrative expertise. It also aims to strengthen institutional capacity in integrated water resource management in line with Egypt’s national water plan.
