India and Saudi Arabia Sign Water Management Pact

India and Saudi Arabia signed a Memorandum of Understanding on 29 June 2026 for cooperation in water resource management. The pact was formalised during the inaugural Saudi Water Week conference in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia.

Water Resource Management

Water resource management is the planning, development, distribution, and protection of water resources. It includes surface water, groundwater, irrigation systems, and water-use efficiency measures.

Signatories and Venue

Dr Suhel Khan, India’s Ambassador to Saudi Arabia, and Eng Abdulrahman Abdulmohsen AlFadley, Saudi Minister of Environment, Water and Agriculture, signed the MoU. Fahad Suri, the Consul General of India in Jeddah, was present at the ceremony on 29 June 2026.

Areas Covered Under the MoU

The MoU covers collaboration in water resources planning, sustainable water management, capacity building, and exchange of best practices. The agreement also includes cooperation on irrigation systems and related areas of water management.

Important Facts for Exams

• Saudi Water Week is a water-focused conference held in Saudi Arabia.
• Jeddah is a major port city on the Red Sea coast of Saudi Arabia.
• A Memorandum of Understanding is a formal agreement used for cooperation between parties.
• Water security refers to reliable access to adequate water for human use, agriculture, and industry.

Strategic Context

The Indian embassy in Riyadh described the pact as a step in the India–Saudi Arabia strategic partnership. Water management cooperation is linked to long-term water security in arid and semi-arid regions.