Iraqi President discusses desertification, water crisis with UN Secretary-General

Baghdad (IraqiNews.com) – The Iraqi President, Abdul Latif Rashid, discussed desertification, drought, and the water crisis with the Secretary-General of the United Nations, Antonio Guterres, according to a statement issued by the Iraqi Presidency.

The statement mentioned that the meeting was held in United Nations headquarters in New York, in the presence of Foreign Minister, Fuad Hussein, Minister of Environment, Nizar Amidi, and the Governor of Basra, Asaad Al-Eidani, on the sidelines of the UN Water Conference held in New York.

Rashid congratulated Guterres on the success of the conference and the proposals made to reduce the global water crisis, expressing his appreciation for the Secretary-General’s invitation to attend the conference, the statement explained.

The Iraqi President reviewed the challenges Iraq face because of the water crisis, such as desertification, drought and dust, which negatively affect various aspects of life, the statement elaborated.

Guterres stressed that he understands the challenges Iraq face, including severe water shortages, the low levels of the Tigris and Euphrates rivers and their impact on the environment, the statement illustrated.

Guterres renewed the support of the United Nations for Iraq and its efforts to reduce the risks of water crisis and climate change and their repercussions on public life.