ECOSF in partnership with UNESCO and PCRWR co-organized a Sub-Regional Experts Meeting on Groundwater Management on August 3-4, 2017 in Islamabad

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The ECO Science Foundation (ECOSF) in collaboration with UNESCO and Pakistan Council of Research in Water Resources (PCRWR), and the Ministry of Science & Technology co-organized a Sub-Regional Experts Meeting on Groundwater Management on August 3-4, 2017 in Islamabad. The objective of holding this meeting was to highlight the importance of sustainable use of groundwater and develop recommendations to address the key challenges of groundwater in the region. The Federal Secretary, Ministry of Science and Technology, Mr. Fazal Abbas Maken was the Chief Guest of the event. Mr. Maken underscored that the groundwater depletion is a major concern in the region, thus it needs integrated efforts by all the stakeholders to address this challenge. He appreciated the efforts of all the partners in joining hands together in organizing this crucial event. Prior to this, Dr. Muhammad Ashraf, Chairman PCRWR welcomed the participants and appreciated the effort undertaken by the partners in co-organizing this important meeting.

Prof. Dr. Shahbaz Khan, the Regional Director for Asia and Pacific at UNESCO Jakarta office and Ms. Vibeke Jensen, Director UNESCO Islamabad office also graced the occasion.  President ECOSF Prof. Dr. Manzoor H. Soomro was invited as one of the Key Note speakers but he could not participate in the meeting due to his prior engagements. However, his key note message was read out to the participants, which emphasised on the efficient use of groundwater and development of effective groundwater management strategies for the sustainable development. This meeting provided an opportunity to key stakeholders to enhance the regional cooperation and collaboration to address the challenges. The meeting brought together expert scientists, engineers, water resources managers, and practitioners from ECO region countries. It is important to mention here that ECOSF sponsored the participation of three experts on Groundwater Management from the ECO region. On behalf of the ECOSF, Engr. Khalil Raza-Scientific Officer and Mr. Ghulam Abbas- Assistant Director (Admin and Programs) attended the meeting.