UAE’s Abdulla Balalaa Advocates for Water Resilience at Istanbul Forum
📋 Key Takeaway: H.E. Abdulla Balalaa represented the UAE at the 5th Istanbul International Water Forum, focusing on global water challenges and the importance of international cooperation.
UAE’s Commitment to Water Resilience
His Excellency Abdulla Balalaa, Assistant Minister of Foreign Affairs for Energy and Sustainability, participated in the 5th Istanbul International Water Forum, which took place under the theme ‘Strengthening Water Resilience: Innovation to Action’. The Forum convened ministers, senior officials, and experts from various sectors to address pressing global water challenges and explore innovative solutions.
During the flagship plenary session titled ‘Paradigm Shift in a Changing World: Water and the Bridging Power of Istanbul’, Balalaa emphasized the necessity to redefine water management and valuation. He highlighted the importance of dialogue and cooperation as key elements in transforming water-related challenges into opportunities for sustainable development.
Balalaa reaffirmed the UAE’s commitment to international cooperation in water diplomacy, stating that it plays a vital role in addressing shared challenges. He noted that as co-host of the upcoming 2026 UN Water Conference with Senegal, the UAE aims to foster an inclusive and action-oriented approach to water management.
Bilateral Meetings and Regional Cooperation
On the sidelines of the Forum, H.E. Balalaa engaged in several bilateral meetings with Turkish officials, discussing potential collaborations in water resilience, energy, and sustainability. These discussions aim to strengthen partnerships across various sectors and enhance regional cooperation.
Balalaa also participated in a Closed Ministerial Roundtable titled ‘Dialogue on Water Resilience’, chaired by H.E. Ä°brahim Yumaklı, Turkey’s Minister of Agriculture and Forestry. This roundtable allowed ministers to share insights on national water-related risks and the significance of regional cooperation in advancing water resilience.
In his closing remarks, Balalaa praised Turkey’s leadership in hosting the Forum, indicating that its outcomes will significantly influence upcoming global initiatives, including the 2026 UN Water Conference and COP31 in Antalya.
UAE’s Vision for Global Water Management
Concluding his address, H.E. Balalaa reiterated the UAE’s view of water resilience as both a national priority and a shared global responsibility. He expressed the UAE’s eagerness to collaborate with Turkey, Senegal, and other partners to develop a practical and inclusive water agenda that enhances resilience for people, economies, and ecosystems.
Frequently Asked Questions
What was the main theme of the Istanbul International Water Forum?
The main theme was ‘Strengthening Water Resilience: Innovation to Action’.
Who is H.E. Abdulla Balalaa?
He is the Assistant Minister of Foreign Affairs for Energy and Sustainability in the UAE.
What role does the UAE play in the 2026 UN Water Conference?
The UAE is a co-host of the conference with Senegal, focusing on inclusive and action-oriented processes.
What topics were discussed at the Forum?
Discussions included water management, technology, finance, health, and agriculture.
How does the UAE view water resilience?
The UAE considers water resilience a national priority and a shared global responsibility.
