Minister of Water Resources and Irrigation Hani Sewilam discussed with Professor Kenzo Hiroki, a personal advisor on water studies to Emperor Naruhito of Japan, ways to strengthen coordination and joint cooperation between Egypt and Japan. This came within the framework of the third interactive dialogue “Water and the Planet,” scheduled to be held as part of the 2026 United Nations Water Conference, as well as the outcomes of recent related meetings and discussions.
The two sides stressed the importance of continued joint coordination, consultation and exchange of views during the coming period in order to unify positions and jointly adopt ideas. They agreed to hold a joint ministerial meeting in the near future to further discuss the matter.
Sewilam voiced appreciation for the efforts of the Japanese side in supporting the “Water and the Planet” interactive dialogue and promoting water and climate issues at the international level. He emphasized the importance of continued coordination between the two sides regarding the messages and outcomes of the dialogue in order to achieve consensus and unify visions before presenting them internationally.
The minister also highlighted the importance of building on the outcomes of the 2023 UN Water Conference, while focusing during preparations for the 2026 conference on enhancing practical implementation tools on the ground. He noted that messages related to water and climate should include clear and actionable implementation mechanisms to achieve the desired goals.
The meeting also addressed the action plan for the “Water and the Planet” interactive dialogue and the ongoing coordination efforts between the Egyptian and Japanese sides. This included the key programs and initiatives, the outcomes of various dialogues and mechanisms for coordination with participating countries, in addition to entities and international partners.
The two sides further reviewed preparations for an event scheduled to be held during the Fourth Dushanbe Water Action Decade Conference in Tajikistan on 26-27 May. Meanwhile, the discussions addressed the upcoming ministerial meeting of host countries and co-chairs, which is scheduled to take place next July.
During the talks, participants also reviewed current participation levels and ongoing arrangements.