The French consul-general in Jerusalem, Mr.  René Troccaz, affirmed that the Palestinian water sector high priority of the French Government, expressing appreciation for the great efforts made by the Water Authority in developing this vital sector, and stressing his Government's keenness to continue cooperation and partnership in the field of water and wastewater.

This was during the meeting of the head of PWA, Eng. Mazen Ghunaim, in his office today with Mr. René Troccaz, to view the developments in the programs and projects supported by the French Government in the water sector, and to discuss the mechanisms for future cooperation according to the Water Authority's plan.

At the beginning of the meeting, Eng. Ghunaim addressed the complex situation in the Palestinian water sector, resulting from the Israeli control over more than 85% of the water resources, its obstruction of infrastructure projects, and violation of all international laws and legislation. Such violations were in parallel with the implementation by Israel of water projects, aimed at increasing its control over water sources and allocating them to its citizens and the inhabitants of illegal settlements, at the expense of Palestinian citizens.

Eng. Ghunaim emphasized that, despite these challenges, the Water Authority continues to implement numerous projects and programs aimed at developing services for Palestinian citizen to strengthen their resilience on their land, according to a deliberate plan based on needs and priorities, taking into account the differences in needs between the West Bank and Gaza.

Eng. Ghunaim pointed out that there is an urgent need to implement numerous projects and programs for Palestinian communities, particularly in areas classified (C), to improve the living conditions of citizens, which requires intensified support from the supporting partners, primarily the French Government.

In this context, Eng. Ghunaim appreciated the political support of the French Government in addressing the annexation plans implemented by the Israeli Government, in particular, the continued support of the French Government to the water sector.

Meanwhile, Mr. Troccaz emphasized the continued cooperation between the parties to implement future projects and programs according to the needs and priorities set by the Water Authority.