Irrigation Minister Hany Sweilam on Monday discussed with Japanese ambassador to Egypt Oka Hiroshi ways of boosting bilateral cooperation. Sweilam praised the long-standing cooperation between Egypt and Japan and the strong relation between the two countries, particularly in the water resources field. He said that 53% of the New Dairout Barrages project has been implemented with Japan's help. The meeting covered priority projects with Japan, including Lake Manzala coastal protection, support for a regional water training center, and the African Water and Climate Adaptation Center. The projects "boosting Water Productivity in Agriculture", with Japan and FAO, was reviewed, including greenhouses, farmers' field schools, and irrigation improvements. The preparations for the 7th Cairo Water Week and Japan's expected participation with a delegation were discussed. Sweilem emphasized the strong cooperarion between Egypt and Japan in global climate work, highlighted by their joint leadership in the "Third Inte ractive Dialogue on Water and Climate" at the UN Water Conference in March 2023. He stressed the need to continue reinforcing the dialogue's key messages. Additionally, he noted to the importance of Japan's involvement in the AWARe initiative's steering committee meeting during the Cairo Water Week in October. Source: State Information Service Egypt