World Water Council Strengthens Global Partnerships at WIF4 in Malaysia
From 8 to 12 September 2025, Kuala Lumpur played host to the 4th ICID World Irrigation Forum (WIF4), gathering nearly 1,000 participants from around the globe. The World Water Council (WWC), represented by its President, Mr. Loïc Fauchon, was a central voice throughout the event, reinforcing the Council’s commitment to advancing hydro-diplomacy, irrigation for food security, and global water cooperation.
A Strong Opening for Dialogue
The Forum opened with high-level interventions, including an address by Mr. Fauchon, who set the tone for discussions by calling on governments and institutions to “Preserve, Reserve, and Serve.” This message—urging protection of natural resources, careful planning, and equitable access to water—resonated with dignitaries such as Malaysia’s Minister of Agriculture and Food Security, H.E. Datuk Seri Haji Mohamad Bin Sabu, ICID President Dr. Marco Arcieri, and representatives from FAO, the World Bank, and delegations from Asia and beyond.
Political Dimensions of Water
During the High-Level Advisory Group session, Mr. Fauchon contributed insights on the political realities shaping water management today, particularly around transboundary challenges in an evolving geopolitical context. His remarks were later highlighted by Minister Mohamad Bin Sabu in the closing of the session, reflecting their impact and relevance to ongoing global debates.
Strengthening Strategic Partnerships
Bilateral meetings during the mission advanced WWC’s partnerships with governments and institutions.
- With Malaysia, discussions centered on the country’s potential membership in the World Water Council, with the Minister expressing strong interest in joining.
- With FAO, exchanges focused on youth engagement, preparations for the 11th World Water Forum, and the forthcoming King Hassan II Great World Water Prize. WWC also confirmed participation in the FAO Water Dialogue in Rome.
- With Japan, both sides reaffirmed their commitment to deepen cooperation.
- With ICID leadership looked ahead to the next ICID Conference in Marseille, ensuring strong ministerial and private sector involvement, as well as the active engagement of Saudi Arabia, co-host of the 11th Forum.
Engaging the Public and the Media
Beyond closed-door meetings, the Council’s message reached wider audiences. Mr. Fauchon took part in a joint press conference with Malaysian officials and gave an in-depth interview to The Water Digest. The conversation explored hydro-diplomacy, preparations for Riyadh 2027, technology-driven water solutions, and the essential role of youth leadership. The interview will be published and broadcast later this month.
Youth at the Forefront
Youth engagement was another highlight of the Council’s presence at WIF4. On 11 September, Ms. Karishma Asoodani, Mission Chief for Youth, presented the WWC’s Youth Engagement Strategy for the upcoming World Water Forum in Riyadh. Young participants responded enthusiastically, proposing to organize a dedicated session on irrigation at the Forum, underscoring their commitment to shaping the future of water governance.
Looking Ahead to Riyadh 2027
The Kuala Lumpur mission concluded on a note of optimism. The World Water Council strengthened ties with key partners, advanced preparations for the 11th World Water Forum, and reaffirmed its role as a convener of dialogue at the highest political and technical levels.
As President Fauchon reminded participants, water is both a connector and a source of potential conflict. By fostering trust, dialogue, and cooperation, the Council is working to ensure that water becomes a driver of peace and sustainable development worldwide.