UAE And Mauritius Sign Pact To Strengthen Water, Energy, And Sanitation Sectors

In a significant step towards enhancing bilateral cooperation in critical sectors, the UAE Ministry of Energy and Infrastructure (MoEI) and the Ministry of Energy and Public Utilities of Mauritius have inked a memorandum of understanding (MoU). This agreement, signed virtually by Suhail bin Mohammed Al Mazrouei, Minister of Energy and Infrastructure, and Georges Pierre Lesjongard, Minister of Energy and Public Utilities of the Republic of Mauritius, aims to bolster collaboration in the fields of water, energy, and sanitation.

The MoU outlines a comprehensive framework for cooperation across various domains including energy, renewable energy, hydrogen and derivatives, energy efficiency, liquefied natural gas, water and water efficiency, desalination, digital technology application in water and energy sectors, wastewater management, and sanitation. This agreement facilitates the exchange of experiences, information on newly developed technologies, know-how, and best practices. It also encourages joint research and development efforts, promotes project implementation through public-private partnerships (PPP) and independent power producer (IPP) models, supports joint visits, meetings, technical workshops, and fosters investment in relevant areas from both sides.

Al Mazrouei highlighted the MoU as a testament to the strong relations between the UAE and Mauritius, emphasizing its role in supporting their shared commitment to sustainable development and environmental protection. He pointed out that this collaboration aligns with the UAE's strategic objectives under the UAE Energy Strategy 2050, the National Hydrogen Strategy 2050, and the UAE Water Security Strategy 2036. These strategies collectively aim at achieving the UAE’s net zero by 2050 target. Al Mazrouei also noted that this partnership is poised to contribute significantly towards achieving Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) 6 on clean water and sanitation, 7 on affordable and clean energy, and 13 on climate action.

Lesjongard expressed his deep appreciation for the enduring collaboration between the two nations across various sectors. He remarked that the timing of this MoU is particularly opportune as it will bolster efforts towards achieving Mauritius's Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) under the Paris Agreement. Furthermore, he emphasized that this cooperation would enhance Mauritius's resilience against the impacts of climate change, especially significant for Mauritius as a Small Island Developing State (SIDS).

This partnership between the UAE and Mauritius serves as a shining example of how international collaboration can effectively address global challenges related to sustainability and climate change. By sharing knowledge, expertise, and resources, both countries are setting a precedent for mutual growth in the energy sector while contributing to global environmental goals.

With inputs from WAM