Photography by: SG Benelux Unie
On November 29, 2023, the Benelux Water Day in Maastricht marked the launch of our programme: the Joint Cooperation Programme for Applied Scientific Research (JCAR ATRACE). Our initiative aims to foster greater cooperation and collaboration among Belgium, Germany, Luxemburg, and the Netherlands to address the challenges posed by extreme weather and its impact on water management. It underscores the necessity of cross-border cooperation, as rivers and deltas, shared by these countries, know no national boundaries.
The launch event was a platform for high-level officials and academics to exchange ideas and explore potential opportunities for improving water resource management and conservation. We were grateful for the participation and support of Mark Harbers, Dutch Minister for Water Management, Lydia Peeters, Flemish Minister for Transport, and Frans Weekers, Secretary-General for the Benelux.
I am proud that today we are launching a new collaborative programme. It involves a group of independent and renowned scientists from different countries pooling and sharing their knowledge and expertise. Through this knowledge collaboration, we are working together to better manage flood risks and water availability.Throughout the day, participants engaged in brainstorming sessions and deliberations on critical research questions in a series of workshops. The goal was to identify strategies that can significantly impact the sustainable development of the region by enhancing cooperation in water management.
The Benelux Water Day was a success and the high engagement and commitment emphasize the importance of strengthening regional collaboration and knowledge sharing. By working together, the four countries in our programme can better navigate the challenges posed by extreme floods and droughts, ensuring a more resilient and sustainable future for the region.
