10th World Water Forum Officially Opened

The President of the Republic of Indonesia, Joko Widodo (Jokowi) opened the 10th High Level Meeting (HLM) World Water Forum at the Bali Nusa Dua Convention Center, Bali, Monday (20/5). The President of the Republic of Indonesia said that the largest water forum in the world should be a momentum for countries in the world to revitalize real action and joint commitment by sharing knowledge, encouraging innovative solutions, and realizing integrated water resources management. "This is to strengthen commitment and formulate real actions related to inclusive and sustainable water management," said Jokowi.

According to the President, Indonesia has consistently pushed for three things at the forum. First, is to increase the principles of solidarity and inclusiveness to achieve solutions to common challenges, especially for small island countries that experience water scarcity. Second, empowering hydro-diplomacy for concrete and innovative cooperation according to the needs of recipient countries while preventing competition in managing cross-border water resources based on international law. Third, strengthening political leadership as the key to the success of various forms of cooperation towards sustainable water security. “Water is not just a natural product but a collaborative product that connects and unites us. "Preserving water is our collective responsibility," said President Jokowi closing his remarks.

Previously, World Water Council President Loïc Fauchon encouraged the heads of state and delegations present to include the right to water in the constitutions, laws and regulations of their respective countries. He said this would accelerate the realization of justice for access to water and sanitation throughout the world. (Ministry of Foreign Affairs/TR/Elvira Inda Sari)