The Water Working Group

The function of this working group is to plan and execute workshops and projects in the realms of water conservation, water-sector training, desalination and water data enhancement. The April 1994 Oman session was the first multilateral working group meeting in a Gulf state. Thus far, some important achievements have been attained:

In the Oman session, an Israeli proposal was endorsed for the first time in any working group. The proposal is for a project to rehabilitate and make more efficient water systems in small-sized communities in the region.

An Omani proposal to establish a desalination research and technology center in Muscat was endorsed by the group. This center, whose staff will include Israeli experts, will support regional cooperation in desalination research among all interested parties.

The U.S. proposed to develop waste water treatment and re-use facilities for small communities at several sites throughout the Middle East.

A joint U.S./EU regional training program for water personnel was implemented.

Chair: U.S.
Jan. 1992, Moscow
May 1992, Vienna
Sep. 1992, Washington
May 1993, Geneva
Oct. 1993, Beijing
Apr. 1994, Muscat
Nov. 1994, Athens
Jun. 1995, Amman

Key Projects

• Desalination Research and Technology Center in Muscat
• Wastewater treatment facilities at several Mideast sites
• Regional Training Program for water personnel
  

Links to related information maintained at IGCC

• Shaul Arlosoroff's paper delivered at IGCC's 1994 Athens conference on Middle East issues.
• Alan Richard's paper delivered at IGCC's 1994 Athens conference on Middle East issues.
• The report of the working group on water from IGCC's 1994 Athens conference on Middle East issues.
• Related Internet Sites

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