Cabinet paves way for India-EU MoU on water cooperation

The Union Cabinet on Wednesday gave its approval for the signing of Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between India and the European Union in the field of water resources.

The decision was taken at a cabinet meeting here chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

"The MoU envisages strengthening the technological, scientific and management capabilities of India and the European Union in the field of water management on the basis of equality, reciprocity and mutual benefit," an official statement said.

"It provides for technical exchange on water issues, including on integrated water resource management plans within river basins and through study visits," it said.

The MoU also aims to identify key environmental issues and approaches to sustainable development where exchange of experiences and cooperation could be mutually beneficial to strengthen and further develop cooperation between the countries on water management.

The MoU also envisions a more sustainable management of water resources in India with an objective of tackling the challenges posed by water management in the context of growing population, competing water demands and a changing climate.

It said that a joint working group shall be formed to monitor the activities to be carried out in fulfilment of the MoU.

--IANS

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