Ministry of Energy Discusses Enhancing Cooperation in Drinking Water and Sanitation Services with Oxfam Delegation
Deputy Minister of Energy for Water and Electricity Affairs, Eng. Osama Abu Zaid, met with a high-level delegation from Oxfam, which included the Executive Director of Oxfam America, Ms. Abby Maxman, the Chief Executive of Oxfam Great Britain, Mr. Richard Hawkes, and the Oxfam International Regional Director for Middle East and North Africa, Ms. Sally Abi Khalil. The meeting was attended by the Director of International Cooperation at the Ministry of Energy, Mr. Firas Kardoush, as part of the delegation's official visit to the Syrian Arab Republic.
The meeting reviewed the Ministry of Energy's current priorities, top among them being the rehabilitation of drinking water stations in cities, towns, and villages damaged by the war. This aims to improve essential services and create suitable conditions for the dignified return of residents, alongside prioritizing the maintenance and rehabilitation of main and secondary distribution networks to ensure the delivery of safe and sustainable drinking water to citizens.
Both sides also discussed the status of the sanitation sector and plans to rehabilitate damaged networks and treatment plants to reduce pollution and safeguard public health and the environment. Additionally, they explored ways to strengthen cooperation in implementing water and sanitation infrastructure projects.
The discussion further addressed challenges related to water resource management, including plans for water conservation, preserving water resources, and expanding wastewater treatment and reuse according to approved standards, thereby contributing to enhanced water security and environmental sustainability.
Eng. Abu Zaid emphasized the importance of investing in capacity building and developing human resources working in the water and sanitation sectors. He noted that implementing specialized training programs and securing necessary equipment and logistics will boost institutional efficiency and elevate the quality of services provided to citizens