Nicosia: The Nicosia District Local Government Organisation (NDLGO) has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Israel's National Water Company, Mekorot, aiming to promote sustainable water resources management. NDLGO President Constantinos Yiorkadjis highlighted the goal of further reducing non-revenue water, which currently stands at 19%-20%, the lowest among districts and below the EU average.
According to Cyprus News Agency, the MoU was signed by Yiorkadjis and Barak Graber, CEO of Mekorot Development and Enterprise, in the presence of Israel's Ambassador to Cyprus Oren Anolik and officials from both organisations. Yiorkadjis emphasized the shared mission of sustainable water management, leveraging Mekorot's expertise in desalination, water reuse, and advanced water technologies.
Yiorkadjis noted the importance of addressing water scarcity as a regional responsibility, underlining NDLGO's commitment to investing in modern infrastructure and innovation. The partnership aims to create a platform for exchanging best practices, strengthening both organisations, and improving services for citizens.
Graber emphasized the shared responsibility of providing water resources in the Mediterranean region and offered Mekorot's 90 years of experience to support the initiative. Anolik highlighted the growing partnership between Israel and Cyprus, noting the significance of water management cooperation in tackling environmental, economic, and strategic challenges.
He also acknowledged Mekorot's contributions to major water projects in Cyprus, such as desalination plants, which have bolstered the island's water security. The new agreement builds on this successful cooperation and opens doors to further opportunities.
Iliana Tofa, Director of Cyprus' Water Development Department, expressed satisfaction with the collaboration, recalling their partnership with Mekorot since 2015. She noted the initial challenges and Mekorot's support during the early stages of their projects.
Yiorkadjis mentioned that the agreement marks the beginning of an exchange of information to identify key issues and challenges. He highlighted the reduction of non-revenue water and improved sewerage network management as primary objectives, seeking Mekorot's support in achieving these goals.
Graber reiterated the MoU as the start of a collaborative relationship, with a focus on identifying and prioritising problems to develop holistic solutions.