CAPTION: Office opening ceremony Nov. 14 at the Hague City Hall with the mayor, Wim Deetman, IWA president David Garman, IWA executive director Paul Reiter, Theo Schmitz from Vewin, and Bas Pulles from the Dutch Ministry of Economic Affairs.
LONDON, Nov. 15, 2007 -- The International Water Association (IWA) has opened a major operational office in The Hague to further its collaboration with international partners in the water sector.
"The Hague office offers us a myriad of opportunities to partner with the scientific, consultant, utility and industrial communities that are pro-actively engaged in solving problems of water supply and sanitation in both developed and developing countries" said Paul Reiter, IWA executive director.
"The role of the Dutch in this international context is remarkable, but perhaps not surprising given their experience in turning the threat of water into a strategic asset over a period of centuries. Here we find a utility structure better set up to tackle the issues in a holistic way when compared to many places in the world; technology hubs that foster best practice; and a clear commitment from the Dutch government to be a leader in this field both at home and abroad."
Based right in the heart of the "International City" that's home to some 150 international organisations, the IWA office was opened at an official ceremony hosted by the Mayor of The Hague on Nov. 14. Following the opening of new regional offices in Singapore and Beijing, it demonstrates IWA's continuing expansion and regionalisation into the regions of the world where water issues are tackled head-on.
The International Water Association's core purpose is to unite water professionals in achieving sustainable water management on a local, national and international level. The association is a non-profit, self-governing organization comprising over 10,000 members across 130 countries from the scientific, utility, consultant, regulatory, industrial and technology communities. IWA's work covers all fields of the water cycle, from supply, industrial water use and sanitation in both developing and developed countries. Please visit our website for more information: www.iwahq.org
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Also see:
-- "IWA communications director has roots at Siemens: Andrew Walker takes newly created post"
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