14/09/2026
Prof. Khaled AbuZeid Delivers the Keynote speech at Korea International Water Week 2026
Daegu, Republic of Korea โ September 2026 โ Prof. Khaled AbuZeid, Regional Director for Technical Programs of the Arab Water Council (AWC), delivered the keynote speech at the Opening Ceremony of Korea International Water Week (KIWW) 2026, 9-11/9/2026, held in Daegu under the theme โWater, Energy, AI: Securing Our Future.โ
In his keynote, Prof. AbuZeid highlighted the growing interdependence between water, energy and artificial intelligence, emphasizing the need for integrated planning as climate change, water scarcity and advanced industries place increasing pressure on water and energy resources.
He drew particular attention to the rapidly emerging water requirements of the AI and semiconductor industries, including the growing demand for ultra-pure water (UPW) in semiconductor manufacturing and advanced technologies, as well as the significant cooling-water requirements of AI data centers. He stressed that the expansion of these industries must go hand in hand with water-efficient technologies, responsible siting and increased water reuse.
Prof. AbuZeid also called for a diversified water portfolioโincluding wastewater reuse, desalination, green water, brackish groundwater and emerging water-from-air technologiesโwhile emphasizing that water of the appropriate quality should be matched to its appropriate use.
He further stressed the importance of the transboundary Water-Energy-Food Nexus, noting that upstream water and energy developments can have important implications for downstream water, food and energy security.
During KIWW 2026, Prof. AbuZeid participated in the Water Leadersโ Round Table, where the KIWW 2026 Water Leadersโ Action was presented and adopted, addressing safe and reliable water management, the water-energy nexus, AI and digital transformation, and international cooperation, finance and capacity building. He also participated in the Global Partnership Forum on Water Security and International Development Cooperation, contributing to discussions on international partnerships for advancing global water security.
Prof. AbuZeid additionally joined the Ribbon-Cutting Ceremony of the KIWW 2026 Exhibition, which showcased innovative solutions from Korea and the international water community. The exhibition highlighted, among other areas, the growing efforts of AI, semiconductor and technology industries to conserve water and advance water and wastewater treatment, recycling and reuse, demonstrating how technological innovation can help address the water challenges created by new industries.
Through his participation, Prof. AbuZeid represented the Arab Water Council in advancing international dialogue on integrated water management and the Water-Energy-AI nexus, while bringing the perspectives and priorities of the Arab Region to the global water community.
