Egypt, Japan discuss strengthening coordination ahead of 2026 UN Water Conference

CAIRO – 18 May 2026: Hani Sweilem, Egypt’s Minister of Water Resources and Irrigation, met with Kenzo Hiroki, Advisor to the Emperor of Japan on Water Affairs and Advisor to the Prime Minister’s Special Envoy for Water, to discuss ways to strengthen coordination between the two countries on international water issues.

The meeting focused on Egyptian-Japanese cooperation within the framework of the third Interactive Dialogue on Water and Planet (ID-C), scheduled to take place during the 2026 UN Water Conference, and in light of the outcomes of recent related meetings.

Both sides emphasized the importance of continuing coordination, consultation, and the exchange of views in the coming period to help unify positions, develop joint proposals, and prepare for a joint ministerial meeting in the near future.

Dr. Sweilem expressed appreciation for Japan’s efforts in supporting the Interactive Dialogue on Water and Planet and advancing water and climate issues on the international stage. He stressed the importance of maintaining close coordination regarding the dialogue’s messages and outcomes to ensure a unified vision before presenting them internationally.

The Minister also highlighted the need to build on the outcomes of the 2023 UN Water Conference while focusing on strengthening practical implementation mechanisms on the ground for the 2026 conference. He stressed that discussions related to water and climate should include clear and actionable implementation frameworks capable of achieving tangible results.

The meeting further reviewed the action plan for the Interactive Dialogue on Water and Planet and ongoing coordination efforts between Egypt and Japan, particularly those concerning major programs and initiatives, dialogue outcomes, and coordination mechanisms with participating countries, institutions, and international partners.

In addition, the two sides discussed preparations for an event scheduled to be held during the Fourth Dushanbe Conference in Tajikistan on Water Action Decade from May 26–27, 2026. They additionally reviewed arrangements for the upcoming ministerial meeting of host countries and co-chairs planned for July, including participation levels and ongoing organizational preparations.