Pretoria: The Embassy of the United Arab Emirates in the Republic of South Africa, alongside the Institute for Security Studies (ISS), held a consultative meeting for the Diplomatic Corps in preparation for the 2026 United Nations Water Conference at the ISS headquarters in Pretoria.
According to Emirates News Agency, the meeting gathered ambassadors, high commissioners, diplomats, representatives of international organisations, and development partners. The purpose was to share views on the goals, priorities, and preparatory process for the 2026 United Nations Water Conference. This event, co-hosted by the United Arab Emirates and the Republic of Senegal, will take place in Abu Dhabi from 8th to 10th December 2026.
In his opening remarks, UAE Ambassador to South Africa Mahash Saeed AlHameli reiterated the UAE's dedication to promoting global water action, fostering international collaboration, and encouraging practical solutions to water-related challenges. AlHameli underscored the critical importance of water in life, sustainable development, and economic prosperity, while emphasizing the necessity for united international efforts to advance Sustainable Development Goal 6.
AlHameli also mentioned the lasting influence of the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, whose vision prioritized water conservation and sustainable resource management. Under the leadership of President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, the UAE continues this legacy through investments in innovation, desalination technologies, and sustainable resource management.
The event featured presentations by ISS experts on global water trends, risks, and opportunities, as well as water security and sustainable development in Africa. Experts from the UAE's Ministry of Foreign Affairs provided an overview of the Conference's mandate, objectives, thematic priorities, preparatory process, and opportunities for stakeholder engagement.
The meeting concluded with an interactive discussion, allowing participants to exchange perspectives and contribute ideas to support an inclusive and action-oriented preparatory process. The Embassy expressed gratitude to the ISS for its partnership in organizing the event and thanked all participants for their engagement and contributions.
The UAE reaffirmed its commitment to collaborating with partners across Africa and the international community to facilitate an inclusive and action-oriented preparatory process for the 2026 United Nations Water Conference, strengthen international cooperation, and advance progress towards Sustainable Development Goal 6.
