Ramtha, Oct. 5 (Petra) -- The Water Diplomacy Center at Jordan University of Science and Technology (JUST) launched Monday a regional training workshop on transboundary climate diplomacy, climate-resilient integrated water resources management, disaster risk reduction and nature-based solutions.
The workshop, which runs through Oct. 14, brings together specialists and representatives from countries participating in the Blue Peace Middle East initiative to strengthen regional capacity to address the growing impact of climate change on shared water resources.
The workshop is organized under the Blue Peace Middle East Capacity Development Project with support from the Swiss government through the Swiss Agency for Development and Cooperation.
JUST Vice President Ahmad Ajlouni highlighted the interconnected challenges posed by climate change and water scarcity and their implications for water and food security, sustainable development and regional stability.
He also underscored the Water Diplomacy Center’s role in bridging scientific knowledge, policy and development while providing a platform for regional dialogue and cooperation.
Center Director Mutawakel Obeidat noted that the workshop brings together specialists and practitioners from across the region to exchange expertise on challenges facing shared water resources and strengthen their understanding of the climate-water-security nexus.
He highlighted the need for cross-border cooperation in addressing risks affecting shared river basins and groundwater resources.
Swiss Embassy representative Mufleh Alawin reviewed Switzerland’s partnership with the university and the center, highlighting the center’s development as a regional platform for water diplomacy and the importance of building on achievements from the project’s first phase.
Workshop Coordinator Nour Saaydeh explained that the program combines theoretical and practical components, including identifying climate-related risks, assessing vulnerabilities and their effects on water, agriculture, livelihoods and food security, and developing practical responses.
The program covers climate-resilient integrated water resources management, climate and disaster risk assessment, early warning systems, climate adaptation, nature-based solutions, transboundary climate diplomacy and climate finance. It also addresses drought and flood risks and cooperation in shared river basins and groundwater resources.
//Petra// AJ
