[Source: UAE Interact ]

The issue of providing clean and sustainable water supply for different uses is prominent in developmental plans and policies drawn up by the UAE as part of its federal strategy for 2008-2010, says HE Dr Rashid Ahmed bin Fahd, Minister of Environment & Water. 


In a statement made yesterday to mark the World Water Day and the 9th GCC Water Week, bin Fahd said observance of the two events was a testimony to the importance given to the water issues by the UAE, under the wise leadership of President His Highness Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan and Vice President and Prime Minister of UAE and Ruler of Dubai His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum. 


He indicated that like other GCC countries, the UAE has a water scarcity created by its geographic location in an arid region marred by poor rainfall and lack of surface water.
"Deep water has always been the main source for satisfying water needs. The growing population and increasing demand made by massive development prompted the UAE to depend on desalinated water," he said. 


Bin Fahd noted that the country was exerting huge efforts to utilize modern technology in increasing water production efficiency, to improve quality of treated solid materials to nourish the soil and to encourage partnership with the private sector in setting up water production plants. – Emirates News Agency, WAM