Amman, April 16 (Petra) Minister of Water and Irrigation Raed Abu Saud met on Wednesday with Japan's Ambassador to Jordan, Asari Hideki, to discuss bilateral cooperation in strategic water projects and ways to expedite and strengthen joint programs already underway.

According to a statement issued by the ministry, both sides underscored the importance of maintaining and enhancing the long-standing partnership between Jordan and Japan, particularly in implementing water-related initiatives aimed at improving service delivery across the kingdom.

Abu Saud highlighted the value of Japan’s technical expertise in water and wastewater management, stressing that continued collaboration is essential to boosting Jordan’s capacity to manage its scarce water resources and meet rising demand from both citizens and refugees, especially in light of the growing impacts of climate change.

He outlined several pressing challenges facing the water sector, including high water loss rates, soaring operational and energy costs, and the need to develop alternative water sources. He emphasized the strategic significance of the National Carrier Project, a key initiative to ensure Jordan’s long-term water security.

The minister said the government, through the ministry, is working intensively to fast-track the National Carrier Project, aiming to reach financial closure by the end of the year. Without swift action, he warned, per capita water availability could drop to an alarming level of just 35 cubic meters annually in the coming years.

He expressed appreciation for Japan’s support and called for expanded assistance to help Jordan address its growing water deficit and develop sustainable solutions.

Ambassador Asari praised the ministry’s reform efforts and acknowledged Jordan’s success in managing water challenges despite its limited resources. He reaffirmed Japan’s strong interest in supporting Jordan’s water sector, particularly in light of climate challenges, and expressed Japan’s commitment to backing innovative and strategic projects, including the National Carrier.

//Petra// AF

16/04/2025 22:17:40