AMMAN: Jordan’s minister of water and irrigation has called for increased regional cooperation in a bid to address water challenges through innovative and sustainable solutions.

On Tuesday, Raed Abu Saud met with a delegation from the Iraqi Ministry of Water Resources who are visiting Jordan to bolster collaboration in managing water resources, Jordan News Agency reported.

The visit aims to facilitate an exchange of expertise, drawing from Jordan’s experience in water conservation, reducing waste, improving irrigation efficiency, utilizing treated water, and providing training as part of a joint program between the two countries.

During the visit, the Iraqi delegation toured the command and control center at the Jordanian ministry’s headquarters. They were also scheduled to visit various water sites to observe the management of irrigation water systems and the modern technologies employed.

Abu Saud highlighted the need for collective efforts to combat the effects of climate change, implement advanced water harvesting techniques, and enhance capacity building through specialized technical courses.

He pointed out the significant decline in Jordan’s water resources, which he attributed to erratic rainfall and climate change, and outlined the ministry’s initiatives in developing water and sanitation services, notably through Build-Operate-Transfer projects and other sustainable initiatives.

Abu Saud also stressed the pivotal role of the private sector in operating and maintaining water and sanitation facilities, underscoring the importance of strengthening partnerships with private entities.

He highlighted the water authority’s training center as a regional hub for training technical personnel in modern water management practices and thanked the Iraqi ministry’s efforts in fostering cooperation with Jordan’s water sector.