The Emirati Ministry of Energy and Infrastructure and the Mauritian Ministry of Energy and Public Utilities have recently signed a memorandum of understanding to enhance collaboration in the water, energy, and sanitation sectors. This agreement marks a significant step towards strengthening ties between the two countries and promoting sustainable development initiatives.
Key Areas of Cooperation
The memorandum of understanding between the UAE and Mauritius covers a wide range of areas, including energy, renewable energy, hydrogen and its derivatives, energy efficiency, liquefied natural gas, and water management. Additionally, the agreement includes cooperation in water efficiency, desalination, digital technology applications, wastewater treatment, and sanitation sectors.
Exchange of Expertise and Information
One of the primary objectives of the agreement is to facilitate the exchange of expertise and information on emerging technologies, best practices, and knowledge-sharing. By sharing knowledge and experiences, both countries can benefit from each other’s advancements in the field of energy and water management.
Joint Research and Development Initiatives
The UAE and Mauritius will also explore opportunities for joint research and development initiatives. By collaborating on research projects, the two countries can drive innovation and develop sustainable solutions to common challenges. The agreement also paves the way for implementing projects using public-private partnership and independent power producer models.
Facilitating Joint Visits and Meetings
To further enhance cooperation, the memorandum of understanding facilitates joint visits, meetings, and technical workshops between the UAE and Mauritius. These interactions provide a platform for stakeholders from both countries to discuss key issues, share insights, and explore potential areas for collaboration.
Encouraging Bilateral Investment
The agreement also aims to encourage bilateral investment in relevant sectors. By fostering investment opportunities, both countries can attract capital, expertise, and technology to support the development of critical infrastructure projects in the water, energy, and sanitation sectors.
Commitment to Sustainable Development
Suhail bin Mohammed Al-Mazrouei, Emirati minister of energy and infrastructure, emphasized that the memorandum of understanding reflects the UAE’s commitment to sustainable development and environmental protection. He highlighted the UAE’s ambitious targets outlined in the UAE Energy Strategy 2050, the National Hydrogen Strategy 2050, and the UAE Water Security Strategy 2036, which align with the country’s goal of achieving net zero emissions by 2050.
Georges Pierre Lesjongard, Mauritian minister of energy and public utilities, expressed gratitude for the longstanding collaboration between the UAE and Mauritius. He noted that the cooperation has played a crucial role in advancing Mauritius’s goals outlined in its nationally determined contributions and enhancing resilience against the impacts of climate change, particularly as a small island developing state.
In conclusion, the memorandum of understanding between the UAE and Mauritius signifies a strong commitment to collaboration and partnership in addressing key challenges related to water, energy, and sanitation. By working together, both countries can leverage their strengths, expertise, and resources to drive sustainable development initiatives and build a more resilient future for their citizens.