Cairo: Minister of Water Resources and Irrigation Dr. Hani Sweilem witnessed the celebration marking the official launch of the UNESCO Chair for Transboundary Water Management and Governance at the National Water Research Center. The event was attended by several notable figures, including Minister of Foreign Affairs, International Cooperation, and Egyptians Expatriates Dr. Badr Abdelatty, Minister of Higher Education and Scientific Research Dr. Abdel-Aziz Qansouh, former Minister of Water Resources and Irrigation and Secretary-General of the Arab Water Council Dr. Hussein Al-Atfy, along with representatives from international organizations, development partners, and the private sector. According to State Information Service Egypt, Dr. Sweilem expressed gratitude to UNESCO, the National Water Research Center, and all partners for their contributions to establishing the UNESCO Chair, which aims to serve as a center for innovation, a platform for dialogue, and a catalyst for building trust in Africa and beyond . He highlighted the fruitful collaboration between the Ministry of Water Resources and Irrigation and UNESCO across various fields, noting that the National Water Research Center is a leader in the region in hydrology, water resources management, and climate change adaptation. Dr. Sweilem emphasized the importance of viewing international rivers as bridges for regional cooperation, integration, and peace. He stressed that effective management of international waters is crucial for regional stability, peace, economic growth, food security, and comprehensive development. In light of increasing climate challenges, population growth, and rising water demand, he called for cooperative governance based on science and international law, while avoiding unilateral actions. Highlighting Egypt's efforts under President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi to enhance the resilience of the water sector, Dr. Sweilem mentioned investments in water treatment and reuse, modernization projects, and technical cooperation in the Nile Basin c ountries. He also underscored the role of the UNESCO Chair in developing solutions for African water challenges, supporting decision-making, and building capacities through specialized educational programs and training. Dr. Sweilem invited international and regional organizations, development partners, research centers, and the private sector to collaborate with the UNESCO Chair. He encouraged joint research, training programs, data exchange, and cooperation with the African Ministers' Council on Water, the African Water Facility, and other regional organizations to achieve sustainable development goals and the African Agenda 2063.