OIC: Water Security Requires Collective Action to Develop Joint Solutions

In his inaugural statement at the opening of the First Meeting of Networking of Water Centers of Excellence in the OIC Member States on behalf of the Secretary-General of the Organization of Islamic Cooperation Hissein Brahim Taha, the Assistant Secretary-General for Science and Technology Ambassador Aftab Ahmad Khokher, emphasized the importance of establishing a collaborative platform for sharing innovative solutions and best practices in water management. 

This meeting is being hosted at COMSTECH headquarters in Islamabad on 24-25 February, 2025.

Ambassador Aftab Khokher emphasized that this meeting is a significant step towards strengthening research, knowledge sharing, and coordinated action on water security. This initiative follows Resolution No. 1/4-ICWM/2018, adopted by the 4th Islamic Conference of Ministers Responsible for Water held in Egypt in October 2018, and the Recommendations of the 2nd OIC Water Council Meeting held in October 2019.

Ambassador Aftab Ahmad Khokher highlighted that establishing this network for Water Centers of Excellence will help in developing sustainable and resilient water systems that contribute to the collective well-being of the Muslim world and will enable Member States of the OIC to adopt successful strategies tailored to their unique contexts.

Ambassador Aftab Khokher stressed that enhancing research and development ecosystems is crucial to achieving sustainable water management practices. He added that by fostering capacity-building initiatives, knowledge sharing, and robust institutional frameworks, the OIC Member States could ensure water security while strengthening public trust in water governance.

Ambassador Aftab Khokher also stressed that water security was not only a regional issue but also a global priority. He added that strengthening partnerships with international organizations, including UN agencies, would facilitate access to expertise, resources, and best practices. Furthermore, engaging the private sector in technology-driven solutions is essential for advancing sustainable water management.

Ambassador Aftab Khokher highlighted that collaborating with global and regional financial institutions could unlock new resources and investment opportunities, helping the OIC Member States to achieve their water security objectives.

Ambassador Aftab Khokher underscored that this meeting provides a crucial platform for dialogue, enabling participants to analyze water-related challenges, share best practices, and explore avenues for regional cooperation. He invited all participants to seize this opportunity to work together, leveraging their collective expertise and resources to build a more sustainable and water-secure future.