At this dialogue, Raymond Valiant, Regional Coordinator of Global Water Partnership Southeast Asia (GWP SEA), presented a compelling call to action for enhanced collaboration on Southeast Asia’s shared water bodies. He emphasized the mounting pressures of climate change and conflict, which are increasing the need for regional preparedness, early warning systems, and stronger adaptive capacities.
Raymond also highlighted ongoing gaps in negotiation skills, technical knowledge, and regional data-sharing mechanisms. He urged ASEAN member states and partners to build on their shared experience, including a decade of cooperation through initiatives like the Mekong River Commission, regional dialogue events, and cross-border training programs supported by GWP SEA.
Looking ahead, GWP SEA proposed two-day Multi Stakeholder Dialogue on transboundary waters to be held in 2026 at the ASEAN Secretariat in Jakarta. The initiative aims to develop a shared roadmap, promote joint commitments, and accelerate progress toward Sustainable Development Goal 6.5 on integrated water resources management. It closed by reaffirming Global Water Partnership’s ongoing commitment to facilitating policy dialogue, capacity-building, and practical solutions for sustainable water governance in the region.