NVWATER makes its mark at AWC 24, fostering cooperation toward AIWW 2027

The conference was hosted by the Asian Water Council (AWC), in coordination with key players in the Philippine water sector, including Manila Water Company, Inc. (MWCI) and Maynilad Water Services, Inc. (MWSI). It brought together a wide range of high-level leaders from across Asia, policymakers, international organizations, experts, and businesses in the water resources sector.

The event serves as an important platform for promoting regional cooperation, sharing experiences, and shaping strategic initiatives for the sustainable development of the water sector.

Expanding international cooperation toward sustainable water sector development

As part of the programme, Mr. Nguyen Chi Nghia, Director General of the Northern Division for Water Resources Planning and Investigation (NVWATER), participated in a range of technical activities and policy dialogues, including technical workshops, the water business forum, thematic discussion sessions, B2B networking activities, and side events.

Notably, at the 24th AWC Board of Council (BoC) meeting, Director General Nguyen Chi Nghia delivered remarks and shared experiences on water resources planning, baseline investigations, integrated river basin management, and the 2026 green ODA programme.

The contributions of the Vietnamese delegation were highly appreciated by participants, enriching AWC’s strategic discussions at a time when the region is facing increasing challenges in water resources management.

Through activities at the conference, the Northern Division for Water Resources Planning and Investigation actively exchanged knowledge and expanded partnerships with international partners, particularly in water resources planning, basin management, system monitoring and operation, and the application of advanced technologies in the water sector.

Participation in the AWC conference in Manila further affirmed the Division’s role and position in regional cooperation forums on water resources. Through professional engagements and policy dialogues, the Vietnamese delegation not only contributed substantively to discussions but also strengthened connections and expanded cooperation within the framework of the Asian Water Council.

Mr. Nguyen Chi Nghia commended the professional organization of AWC and the warm hospitality of the Philippines, considering it a solid foundation for the success of the 4th Asia International Water Week (AIWW), scheduled for September 2027.

He added that in the coming time, the Division will continue to enhance international cooperation and promote initiatives for sustainable water governance, contributing to water security, climate change adaptation, and elevating Viet Nam’s position on the international stage.

Policy dialogue and experience sharing in water resources management

At the conference, discussion sessions focused on key issues facing the water sector today, including water security amid increasing climate risks and resource depletion; water governance and smart water supply; the application of digital technologies and digital transformation in the sector; water financing and resource mobilization; protection of water ecosystems and sustainable development; and strengthening international cooperation and knowledge sharing.

Among these, topics such as enhancing the resilience of infrastructure to climate change impacts, water financing, sustainable digital infrastructure development, and water ecosystem protection attracted particular attention from participants.

Sharing experience in water management, a representative of the Manila urban water authority said that the Philippines is actively implementing programmes to modernize urban water supply systems, promote institutional innovation, and strengthen international cooperation. The active participation of water sector enterprises such as MWCI and MWSI further underscores the important role of the private sector in advancing an efficient and sustainable water industry.

One of the key highlights of the conference was the kick-off meeting for the 4th Asia International Water Week (AIWW), scheduled to take place in September 2027 in the Philippines. AWC members expressed strong consensus on organizing the event and agreed on its main thematic directions.

The Asia Water Council (AWC), established in 2016 by Korea’s Ministry of Environment and the Korea Water Resources Corporation (K-Water), has grown to include over 181 members from 27 countries. It actively collaborates with water-related stakeholders, including governments, academic and research institutions, non-governmental organizations and civil society, as well as international organizations such as World Water Council, International Water Resources Association, Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development, and Asian Development Bank for implementing joint projects.

Through its General Assemblies, Board meetings, and thematic forums, the Asia Water Council focuses on key issues such as water resource management, climate change, water supply and sanitation infrastructure, and technological innovation, thereby strengthening regional cooperation and contributing to the achievement of sustainable development goals, particularly ensuring access to clean water.