Jeffrey Worthe
U.S. Public Delegate
New York, New York
October 19, 2023
AS DELIVERED
Thank you, Chair and thank you Mister Special Rapporteur, for your report.
From its most basic role as the source of life to its role in powering global economies, water matters. To this end, the United States reiterates its commitment to Sustainable Development Goal 6: Clean Water and Sanitation.
The U.S. Global Water Strategy strives to improve health, prosperity, stability, and resilience through sustainable and equitable water resource management; access to safe drinking water; and access to sanitation services and hygiene practices.
The previous 2017-2022 U.S. Global Water Strategy exceeded its targets to provide 15 million people with access to safe drinking water and 8 million people with access to sanitation services. The U.S. Global Water Strategy, updated last year, has committed to reach an additional 22 million people with access to safe drinking water and 22 million people with access to sanitation over the next five years.
The impacts of climate change are already being felt, often first through water. It is important that water and sanitation services are climate-resilient. This includes the conservation and management of freshwater resources and associated ecosystems.
It is equally important to anticipate, prevent, and reduce conflict and fragility related to water resources and foster equitable access to drinking water and sanitation in conflict-affected settings.
So, as we discuss this important topic, let us recommit here to working together to make clean water and sanitation a reality for all.
Special Rapporteur, what are some examples of water diplomacy that you have observed as being successful?
I thank you.
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