LONDON: Jordan’s Minister of Water and Irrigation Raed Abu Soud met United Nations Children’s Fund Representative to Jordan Philippe Duamelle on Monday to discuss water sector challenges in light of the large numbers of refugees in the country, Jordan News Agency reported on Monday.

Abu Soud expressed concern over the depletion of water resources, particularly because of unpredictable rainfall patterns caused by climate change. This has resulted in a significant shortage of water for both citizens and host communities.

The minister added that the scarcity is placing a heavy burden on the water sector. He called for the fast-tracking of funding to implement projects that can meet the water demands of all regions.

Duamelle said that UNICEF is committed to assisting Jordan’s water sector, following the priorities set by the ministry. He urged the international community to fulfill its responsibilities by increasing aid to the water sector, especially given that UNICEF is grappling with funding reductions.

The representative lauded Jordan’s robust partnership with UNICEF, which aims to enhance access to water and sanitation services for disadvantaged communities and refugees.

The partnership also seeks to bolster the resilience of water systems against climate change. Duamelle praised Jordan’s continued efforts in hosting a large number of Syrian refugees.