Water is essential for life. Yet despite the fact that there is enough freshwater in the world, its uneven distribution and poor water management have resulted in water scarcity being prevalent in many areas around the world.

The inaugural Singapore International Water Week was launched in 2008 as a global platform where the international water community could share experiences and ideas on water solutions for the world. This year marks the 3rd Singapore International Water Week. I am happy to note that more leaders and professionals in the water field are coming together at this meeting to exchange perspectives on how good governance, innovative technologies and sound financing are critical success factors in the quest for global water sustainability.

Themed “Sustainable Cities: Clean and Affordable Water”, the Singapore International Water Week 2010 will focus on the need for efficient and cost effective solutions to address water problems amidst a constantly changing environment. To take the discussions beyond urban solutions, the inaugural “River Basin and Delta Management Workshop” is being organized this year to look into integrated water resource management issues in the context of river basins and deltas. Several organizations managing the water resources of some of the largest river basins and deltas such as the Danube River, Mekong Delta, Mississippi River and Yellow River will be featured.

Thanks to the tremendous support from the international and local water community, the Water Week continues to grow from strength to strength. Delegates and trade visitors can look forward to over 300 academic papers and posters which will be presented at the Water Convention and learn about the latest water-related products from over 500 participating companies at the Water Expo. There will also be eight Business Forums, covering business opportunities in key water markets of the world.

I am also pleased to welcome the United Nations Secretary-General’s Advisory Board on Water and Sanitation to convene their 14th Board meeting during this year’s Water Week. Together with other co-located events including the inaugural Asia-Pacific Water Ministers’ Forum, I am sure delegates will benefit from the wealth of discussions and knowledge exchanges.

I would like to congratulate the Yellow River Conservancy Commission of the People’s Republic of China for winning this year’s Lee Kuan Yew Water Prize, which will be presented by Minister Mentor Lee Kuan Yew. Attendees of the award ceremony can look forward to another insightful dialogue session with Minister Mentor.

I would also like to thank the Singapore Millennium Foundation, our 17 Founding Sponsors as well as other sponsors, strategic partners, and supporting organisations for their support of the Singapore International Water Week 2010. I wish you a fruitful and enjoyable time in Singapore.