Brussels and Beijing have pledged to strengthen cooperation on water management, warning that global water demand could exceed available resources by 40 per cent by 2030. Joint efforts will focus on improving water efficiency, accelerating digitalisation, and strengthening resilience to climate change.
During the third EU-China Water Policy Dialogue, European Commissioner for Environment Jessika Roswall and China’s Minister of Water Resources Li Guoying reaffirmed their commitment to closer cooperation in response to growing pressure on global water systems.
Both sides stressed that climate change is exacerbating water scarcity, increasing the frequency and severity of droughts and floods, and posing risks to economic stability.
“Global water demand is projected to exceed available resources by 40 per cent by 2030. This is one of the most pressing environmental challenges of our time. Droughts and floods are becoming more frequent and intense, due to climate change,” Roswall said ahead of the dialogue.
In this context, the EU and China agreed to work together to build more resilient water systems and strengthen global water governance.
“I am happy that together with China we share a common understanding of the water pressures and a joint resolve to that we must work together to act on them globally,” Roswall added.
Efficiency and joint action ahead of UN conference
A central element of the talks was the European Water Resilience Strategy, which aims to protect the water cycle, promote a water-efficient economy and ensure universal access to clean water.
“Consistent, results-oriented and deep cooperation on water governance between China and the EU is not only important for serving our people. It is in high demand in terms of global water governance and reaching water-related targets under SDGs.,” Li said.
The discussions also covered preparations for the 2026 UN Water Conference and opportunities for joint initiatives to strengthen global water governance and advance sustainable development. Both sides stressed that continued collaboration will be essential to mitigating the effects of climate change and ensuring long-term water security.