ERBIL, Kurdistan Region of Iraq – Iraqi Prime Minister Mohammed al-Shia al-Sudani on Saturday announced a regional initiative aimed at protecting the Tigris and Euphrates rivers, during a water conference in Baghdad.

The fifth Baghdad International Water Conference commenced in the Iraqi capital on Saturday, under the slogan: “Water and Technology: A Partnership for Development.” In addition to Sudani, several other high-profile figures attended the event, Egypt’s Minister of Water Resources and Irrigation Hani Sewilam and President of the International Commission on Irrigation & Drainage (ICID) Marco Arcieri.

The initiative represents “represents a comprehensive strategic step to protect the two historic rivers and to ensure their continued flow,” according to a statement from the premier’s office, adding that it “relies on innovation, and on the use of science and technology to confront climate change.”

“It will serve as a platform for understanding roles, duties, and responsibilities, as well as mutual benefit and available areas of cooperation,” the statement added.

Sudani stressed the need to define responsibilities at the national level and form partnerships at the international level to curb the impact of climate chance and preserve water resources.

“We are determined to overcome obstacles and achieve lasting water security for Iraq—advancing development that meets future needs, serves our people’s interests, and opens the door to greater regional partnership and mutual benefit,” said Sudani at the event.

Mohammed Amin Faris, advisor to Iraqi President Abdul Latif Rashid, delivered the president’s remarks at the event, stressing the significance of the conference, and stating “the water crisis in Iraq is no longer a crisis, but a national issue.”

Rashid, a former water resources minister, has repeatedly highlighted combating water scarcity as one of the main priorities on his agenda as president of Iraq.

Water scarcity has been a long-standing and critical issue for Iraq, exacerbated by upstream dams constructed by Turkey along the Tigris and Euphrates rivers. These dams have significantly reduced water flow into Iraq, intensifying the country’s existing water shortages.