Observing that in the past, management and harnessing of water resources have not been compatible with sustainable development, he noted the gradual emergence of integrated water resources management as part of a comprehensive approach that is necessary in the future. He called for pragmatism, the establishment of deadlines and timeframes, and an end to waste. He stressed that calls for international cooperation do not threaten national sovereignty but strive for joint management of shared heritage. He proposed the establishment of an international water academy under the aegis of an existing institution through which all stakeholders can exchange water management experiences. He called for political will to imple ment and ensure follow-up of the conference's action plan.
Several countries emphasiz ed that water is an economic asset.
Many speakers stressed the need to strengthen international cooperation. The US emphasized that solutions to water problems must primarily be found at the local and national levels. Numerous speakers addressed financial matters related to water management. UNED-UK said financia l investments in water resource management must be doubled if the recommendations of the priority action programme are to be achieved, and called on the CSD to develop the capacity to monitor levels of financial commitment. The US said a new financial mechanism is not necessary and would divert attention from water needs into a new institutional b ureaucracy.