Today, February 24, 2025, the Deputy PM for Economic Affairs, Mullah Abdul Ghani Baradar Akhund, attended and delivered a speech at the International Water Research Conference, held at the Loya Jirga Hall.
During his speech, the Deputy PM emphasized that water is an unparalleled blessing from Allah Almighty, without which the survival of humans, animals, and plants, as well as the economic growth and development of nations, would be impossible. He stated that Islam mandates the responsible use of water in an Islamic society.
Moreover, to compete globally, achieve economic progress, and safeguard the rights of future generations, sustainable and professional water management is an essential and significant national responsibility.
Deputy PM Mullah Baradar Akhund further stated that although water is a renewable natural resource, it is increasingly becoming scarce due to climate change, rising water pollution, increasing human demand, and improper water usage.
He warned that water resources are continuously depleting, which has negatively impacted political and economic relations among countries. He further remarked: “Afghanistan possesses vast natural water resources and reserves. However, due to various reasons, there has not been a professional and national approach toward this immense blessing throughout the country’s modern history.
Therefore, it is now our collective responsibility to take fundamental steps toward effective water management by utilizing all available resources and means.”
According to the Deputy PM, the Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan is making efforts to ensure the proper utilization and management of the country’s water resources.
A key example of these efforts is the excavation of the Qosh Tepa Canal and the construction and rehabilitation of several dams.
At the conclusion of his speech, the Deputy PM emphasized the importance of this conference in promoting effective water management. He acknowledged the participation of university professors and water specialists in sharing their research papers and experiences and urged them to conduct further in-depth research in this field.
It is worth noting that the International Water Research Conference has been organized by the Ministry of Higher Education and Kabul Polytechnic University for three days.
The primary objectives of the conference include: improving water management in the country, replenishing underground water resources, ensuring proper utilization of water, and preventing water pollution.
The conference has brought together officials from government institutions, professors from prestigious foreign universities, representatives of international organizations, and domestic and international experts in water management. A total of 135 research papers will be presented during the conference.