The Asia -Pacific region has been known for its economic vibrancy and heady growth. Yet, the long-term sustainability of this development is now seriously threatened as a growing water crisis takes on an ominous dimension in large parts of Asia. Per capita fresh water availability in the Asian region is among the lowest in the world. Health risks continue to rise as many cities recklessly discard untreated human and hazardous wastes into fresh water bodies. The sustainability of our cities tomorrow will be closely linked to how we manage their precious water resources today.

Conserving the precious water resources for our cities is undoubtedly an urgent priority, but the most daunting challenge we face today comes from the spontaneously growing urban informal settlements. Hundreds of millions of our fellow citizens living in these settlements are denied every day a fundamental right- the right to access safe water and basic sanitation.

UN-Habitat and its partners through their new regional initiative addressing the water and sanitation crisis in Asian cities stand ready to support the efforts of Asian countries in this important area of mutual concern.