Riyadh: A World Bank delegation praised Saudi Arabia's rapid transformation in the water sector, highlighting the Saudi Water Authority's swift development of the sector's regulatory framework, which has led to stronger governance, improved efficiency, and enhanced sustainability.

According to Saudi Press Agency, the commendation was expressed during a meeting with the President of the Saudi Water Authority, Eng. Abdullah Al-Abdulkareem, attended by several senior officials. The World Bank delegation was led by Mesky Brhane, the Regional Director for Sustainable Development in the Middle East and North Africa, Afghanistan, and Pakistan.

The delegation noted Saudi Arabia's integrated water sector management model as a pioneering approach covering the entire water value chain, from production to reuse. This comprehensive model represents a significant shift from traditional approaches that focus on specific aspects, resulting in improved operational, financial, and environmental efficiency of water services.

The delegates emphasized Saudi Arabia's experience as a leading model for international water sector management, suggesting it can be referenced and leveraged globally. Both parties stressed the importance of ongoing cooperation and expertise exchange to support sector development, promote international best practices, and expand partnerships, further bolstering Saudi Arabia as an active international partner in water solutions development.