Tunisia, Algeria and Libya: tripartite pact for management of water resources

A new chapter of North African cooperation

April 22, 2024 marked a critical milestone in relations between Tunisia, Algeria and Libya, with the holding of a tripartite summit in Tunis.

This meeting was a chance to reaffirm their mutual dedication to a strengthened partnership, essential for development and regional stability.

Strategic consultation on water resources

Following this summit, a concrete initiative quickly arose: the signing of a trilateral deal for the management of common groundwater in the northern Sahara, on April 23 and 24 in Algiers.

This meeting of ministers in charge of water resources from each of the three countries resulted in the creation of a consultation mechanism aimed at addressing the crucial issue of water in a coordinated manner.

The urgency of joint action in the face of water stress

Confronted with raised water stress due to climate change, the three countries have realized the necessity to act together to ensure their water security.

Increasing demand for water due to population growth, urbanization and rapid industrialization, as well as the need to secure food supplies, make this partnership more urgent than ever.

A strong commitment to regional security

The dynamism and will shown during this meeting testify to the determination of the three nations to strengthen their collaboration.

Algeria, which will host the headquarters of this new entity, has voiced its commitment to supporting this body both administratively and financially.

Future prospects

The success of this summit and the resulting measures pledge to stimulate other tripartite initiatives. The three countries appear ready to tackle other vital issues that concern them, in the hope of further strengthening their cooperation.

The water consultation mechanism is a first step towards what we hope will be a series of concrete actions for the well-being of the populations and the stability of the region.