Egyptian Water Resources and Irrigation Minister Hani Sewilam arrived in Rome for the Euro‑Mediterranean Water Forum 2026, a gathering of policymakers, researchers and business leaders seeking practical solutions to the region’s mounting water stress.
Key takeaways
- Regional dialogue: The forum follows a Union for the Mediterranean ministerial meeting that urged deeper cross‑border cooperation on drinking water and sanitation.
- Focus on innovation: Sessions will spotlight desalination, wastewater reuse and other non‑conventional water sources as climate pressures intensify.
- Actionable projects: Minister Sewilam is tasked with turning strategic discussions into concrete initiatives for Egypt and its neighbours.
- Support mechanisms: The newly launched Rome Initiative aims to help plan, finance and manage sustainable water systems across the basin.
- Agricultural efficiency: Improving irrigation practices and protecting aquifers are high on the agenda.
Why the forum matters
Running from September 29 to October 2, the Euro‑Mediterranean Water Forum brings together a wide spectrum of actors—from UN envoys to Italian ministers—to address water security in a region where droughts and rising temperatures threaten livelihoods. By convening experts on desalination and water reuse, the event seeks to accelerate technologies that can supplement dwindling freshwater supplies.