How can we scale investment in water infrastructure worldwide? – This question was at the heart of the MEP Water Group event on “Water & the Global Gateway Initiative”, hosted by its Chair MEP Bentele, to explore how to put water projects at the centre of the Global Gateway Initiative
With over 2.2 billion people still lacking safely managed drinking water, and water security becoming increasingly linked to economic resilience, climate adaptation and geopolitical stability, the discussion highlighted why water must be a stronger pillar within the EU’s Global Gateway strategy.
We were honoured to welcome Hana Genorio, Member of the Cabinet of Commissioner Jozef Síkela, who highlighted that water underpins economic prosperity and that the Global Gateway can act as a powerful accelerator for water security while strengthening Europe’s industrial leadership.
Followed by a dynamic roundtable discussion, which counted with the presence of Édouard Pérard (EIB), Laurence Leclerq (SUEZ) and Felix Meyer-Horn (Aerzen), and highlighted that:
🔹Water must become a stronger pillar of the Global Gateway initiative
🔹Public funding is essential, but not sufficient; stronger private sector engagement is needed as investments needs are rising sharply (expected from €2.6 to €5 trillion)
🔹Innovation and technology are essential for future water solutions
🔹Projects must be both bankable and socially affordable, ensuring long-term financial sustainability
🔹Clear governance frameworks are needed to lift regulatory barriers
🔹Knowledge sharing, technical assistance and capacity building are as important as financing
🔹Greater institutional dignity must be conferred to water
