EU Statement – UN High Level Political Forum: Sixth annual SDG 6 Special Event

Madam Chair, Excellencies, Ladies and Gentlemen,

I have the honour to speak on behalf of the European Union and its Member States.

We welcome the launch of the 2026 SDG 6 Synthesis Report as a timely and essential contribution to this year's High-level Political Forum and its in-depth review of SDG 6. The Report provides an indispensable evidence base to assess where we stand, to identify remaining gaps and inequalities, and to guide the urgent course correction that is needed.

Importantly, this report helps us better understand the strong interlinkages between water, climate, food systems, energy, health, biodiversity and resilient ecosystems. These synergies must be placed at the heart of our policy responses, which must be based on science and integrated approaches to water management.

We also see strong value in peer learning and country acceleration efforts, including through practical experiences and SDG 6 case studies, which help translate global commitments into scalable national and local solutions. At the same time, progress will not be possible without stronger transboundary water cooperation and increased financing from all sources.

The 2026 UN Water Conference will be an opportunity to turn the Synthesis Report's findings into enhancing implementation, accelerating action, strengthening accountability, and building momentum for practical solutions at scale. We stand ready to work with all partners to ensure that this opportunity delivers meaningful outcomes.

I thank you.