"The first initiative is the establishment of World Lake Day," Jokowi stated in his opening speech at the meeting.
Moreover, Indonesia is encouraging the establishment of a center of excellence in the Asia-Pacific region. Under the third initiative, Indonesia encourages sustainable water management in small island countries, while the fourth initiative pertains to the promotion for water projects.
In his remarks, the head of state also outlined several consistent aspects that must continue to be encouraged, including increasing the principles of solidarity and inclusiveness to achieve joint solutions, especially for small island countries and those experiencing water scarcity.
Second, Indonesia also continues to empower "hydro diplomacy" for concrete and innovative cooperation, avoiding competition in the management of cross-border water resources, he added.
Third, Indonesia consistently strengthens "political leadership" as the key to the success of various collaborations toward sustainable water security.
Addressing the heads of state present at the meeting, Jokowi emphasized that the role of water is very central to human life.
According to the president, water scarcity can trigger war and can be a source of disaster. Moreover, too much or too little water can be a problem for the world.
Jokowi said that the 10th World Water Forum is strategic to revitalize real action and joint commitment in realizing integrated water resources management.
"Water is not merely a natural product but a product of collaboration that unites us. Thus, joint efforts are needed to protect it. Therefore, I hereby declare that the 10th World Water Forum High-Level Meeting session is open," he stated while opening the meeting.
The High-Level Meeting was attended by world leaders, including Tajikistan Prime Minister (PM) Qohir Rasulzoda, President of Sri Lanka Ranil Wickremesinghe, President of Fiji Ratu Wiliame Maivalili Katonivere, Deputy Prime Minister of Malaysia Dato Sri Haji Fadillah Bin Haji Yusof, and Deputy Prime Minister of Papua New Guinea John Rosso.
The other attendees comprised President of the World Water Council (WWC) Loïc Fauchon; United Nations (UN) General Assembly President Dennis Francis; former Hungarian president Janos Ader; French special envoy Barbara Pompili; and Dutch special envoy Meike van Ginneken.
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Translator: Mentari Dwi G, Resinta Sulistiyandari
Editor: Azis Kurmala
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