WASHINGTON, D.C. - A conference sponsored by the U.S. Agency for International Development and the Middle East Desalination Research Centre (MEDRC) launched December 5 in Muscat, Oman, with opening remarks from U.S. Ambassador to Oman Richard J. Schmierer and Dr. Mohamed S. Al Busaidi, Deputy Director General, Oman Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

The regional meeting of the Middle East and North Africa Network of Water Centers of Excellence (MENA NWC) has drawn over 70 water experts from national research entities from across the Middle East and North Africa and the United States. This initial group will undertake joint research on important water issues such as desalination and integrated water resource management.

The meeting of the new regional water network also launched Thematic Partnerships of research institutions and universities in the Middle East. These partnerships will address longstanding, critical water challenges in the MENA region through collaboration with governments, the private sector, and civil society organizations. The technical areas include efficient and productive use of water, ground water management, sanitation, non-conventional water and energy.