Iraq’s Ministry of Water Resources announced on Sunday that the country has acceded to the Helsinki Convention on the Protection and Use of Transboundary Watercourses and International Lakes, becoming the first country in the Middle East and the 49th member of the this unique international legal framework, Shafaq News reported. March 26.
“Iraq deposited an instrument of accession to the Convention on the Protection and Use of Transboundary Watercourses and International Lakes (also known as the United Nations (UN) Water Convention) on the sidelines of the Water Conference in New York on March 24, 2023”the ministry said in a released statement.
The declaration underlines the objective of the convention to ensure the sustainable use of transboundary water resources by strengthening cooperation and improving water management at the national level. He stressed the importance of promoting cooperation among water-sharing countries to address water scarcity and security issues.
“Iraq’s accession to the Helsinki Convention marks a significant step towards developing cooperation and promoting sustainable water management practices in the Middle East,” a ministry spokesman said.
“As the first country in the region to join this international legal framework, Iraq is committed to working closely with its neighbors and other member states to ensure the sustainable use of shared water resources.”added the representative.
It clarifies that the accession comes amid growing concerns about water scarcity in the Middle East, which is being exacerbated by climate change and rapid population growth. Several large transboundary river systems flow through the region, including the Tigris and Euphrates, which are essential for agriculture, industry, and human consumption.
It is known that the Helsinki Convention, adopted in 1992, establishes the principles of cooperation, fair and reasonable use and prevention of transboundary damage in the management of transboundary water resources. It provides a platform for Member States to conclude agreements, exchange information and collaborate on joint projects.
By joining the convention, Iraq is demonstrating its commitment to addressing water management issues in the region and promoting sustainable development. This move is expected to encourage other countries in the Middle East to consider joining the Helsinki Convention in the future, contributing to better regional cooperation in water management.
Source: Rossa Primavera
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