Aman, April 22 (SANA) Jordan and Syria launched a joint operational water platform in Amman on Wednesday in a step aimed at enhancing bilateral cooperation in managing shared water resources, developing technical coordination mechanisms and improving data exchange.
Jordan’s Minister of Water and Irrigation Raed Abu al-Saud said the initiative comes in line with royal directives and in coordination with the Syrian side, promoting a cooperative approach based on fair sharing of water resources and mutual benefit, according to Petra news agency.
He stressed Jordan’s commitment to strengthening regional cooperation and supporting initiatives that enhance water security as a key pillar of stability and sustainable development.
Abu al-Saud said the platform reflects the depth of historical ties between Jordan and Syria and a shared determination to strengthen cooperation in the water sector.
He added that the platform represents a strategic step that goes beyond a technical achievement, highlighting a shared awareness of regional water challenges and a commitment to joint action based on data and knowledge exchange.
Syrian Assistant Minister of Energy Osama Abu Zaid praised Jordan’s support for the Syrian people, particularly during years of war, and reaffirmed Syria’s commitment to developing the Yarmouk Basin and achieving sustainable water resource management.
He said the platform would enhance transparency, improve efficiency in water management and support a modern, data-driven approach by unifying databases and improving hydrological monitoring.
Abu Zaid added that the platform will support decision-making, strengthen strategic planning and improve the ability to address water challenges, particularly during droughts and floods.
Officials said the Yarmouk Basin has faced significant damage in recent years due to climate change, declining rainfall and unregulated well drilling, prompting measures to regulate water use and protect groundwater resources.
Jordan Valley Authority Secretary General Hisham al-Hiyasa said the platform is among the first initiatives of its kind between countries sharing water basins, helping improve data exchange, monitoring systems and water quality.
Officials said the project reflects joint efforts to ensure fair water distribution and sustainable management, in line with directives from the leaderships of both countries.
ABD
