MED9 Ministers commit to address water scarcity

MED9 Ministers reaffirmed their commitment to addressing key challenges in the Mediterranean region related to the pressing issue of water scarcity, as they met in Cyprus this week.

In a joint declaration issued at the end of the two-day meeting in Ayia Napa, the Ministers called for an integrated approach to ensure synergy and coherence across all legislative processes, in order to secure water availability and address water scarcity, ensuring the necessary water storage, given the critical importance of water for the primary sector.

Minister of Agriculture, Rural Development, and Environment Dr Maria Panayiotou, who hosted the meeting, said the Ministers pledged to implement sustainable water management practices in agriculture and adopt advanced irrigation techniques and water saving agricultural practices and technologies, including drought resistant crops and varieties.

They also vowed to strengthen cooperation amongst the MED 9 countries, enhancing information sharing, engaging in joint research programs, exchanging experiences on best management practices and innovative technological solutions to mitigate the consequences of drought.

The Ministers further invited the European Commission to swiftly proceed with the European Water Resilience Strategy taking into account agricultural and local specificities.

In her remarks, Dr Panagiotou said she is convinced that together the MED9 “can make significant strides in the rational management of this natural resource, water, and shape a sustainable future for the Mediterranean”.

Cyprus, she added, “will continue to actively participate in discussions, aiming to build a resilient and sustainable future for our region. United, we can support our farmers and provide security and prosperity to the citizens of the EU”.

(Source, photos: PIO)