Algeria, Tunisia, and Libya Establish Consultation Mechanism for Shared Groundwater Resources

Algeria, Tunisia, and Libya signed an agreement in Algiers on Wednesday to establish a consultation mechanism for the management of shared groundwater resources in the northern Sahara region. The agreement aims to facilitate cooperation and coordination among the three countries in the sustainable use and protection of their shared groundwater resources.

The agreement was signed by the Algerian Minister of Hydraulics, the Tunisian Minister of Agriculture, Water Resources, and Fisheries, and the Libyan Deputy Minister for Water Resources. The officials stressed the importance of deepening understanding and intensifying information exchange about the shared water resources, which include one of the largest groundwater aquifers in the world, with around 70% of it located beneath Algerian soil.

The ministers emphasized the need for political commitment, adequate funding, and collaboration with academic and research institutions to ensure the effective operation of the new mechanism. They expressed hope that the agreement will contribute to regional stability and enhance food and water security in the region.

Why this matters: The establishment of this consultation mechanism represents a major milestone towards sustainable management of vital shared water resources in the arid Sahara region. Effective cooperation among Algeria, Tunisia, and Libya on this issue can serve as a model for other countries facing similar challenges in managing transboundary groundwater resources.

The signing of the agreement follows a consultative meeting held by the leaders of Algeria, Tunisia, and Libya in Tunis to address common economic development goals, security challenges, and regional stability. The leaders agreed to organize periodic meetings to strengthen bilateral relations and elevate cooperation in various sectors, including hydraulics, energy, trade, transportation, culture, and education.

Key Takeaways

• Algeria, Tunisia, and Libya signed an agreement to manage shared groundwater resources.
• The agreement aims to facilitate cooperation and sustainable use of shared aquifers.
• The mechanism will enhance information exchange and political commitment to water security.
• The agreement represents a milestone in managing transboundary groundwater resources.
• The leaders agreed to organize periodic meetings to strengthen regional cooperation.