Press Releases

A Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) for enhancing bilateral cooperation in the field of water resources was signed between the Ministry of Agriculture, Rural Development, and Environment of the Republic of Cyprus, and the Ministry for Environment, Energy and Regeneration of the Grand Harbour of the Republic of Malta.

The MoU was signed today, 31 October 2024, by the Minister of Agriculture, Rural Development, and Environment of the Republic of Cyprus, Dr Maria Panayiotou and the Minister for Environment, Energy and Regeneration of the Grand Harbour of the Republic of Malta, Dr Miriam Dalli. The signing took place during the ‘Navigating Water Challenges in the Southern and Eastern Mediterranean Region: Sustainability and Resilience’ conference, organised by the European Investment Bank (EIB), in Nicosia.

The MoU strengthens the collaboration between Cyprus and Malta in the management and sustainability of water resources, an area in which the two countries face significant challenges due to water scarcity and drought. Recognising the urgent need to address common challenges- particularly in the area of desalination and wastewater reuse (with a focus on agriculture), this arrangement creates opportunities for innovative approaches and improves resilience against future water-related challenges.

The MoU highlights several areas of collaboration, including:

• Support in the implementation of EU water policy;
• Water resources management and protection;
• Desalination;
• Wastewater treatment and reuse;
• Water treatment and quality control;
• Leakage/ unaccounted water management;
• Water use reduction and public education and awareness;
• Resource sharing, technical cooperation and information exchange on the socio-economic aspects of water resources.

The MoU also establishes a Joint Working Group to coordinate and oversee activities, fostering ongoing cooperation and the development of long-term solutions.

This MoU marks a significant milestone in securing long-term sustainable solutions to water resource challenges in both countries, reflecting their shared commitment to the responsible management and protection of vital natural resources.

(EFys/AS/AP)