Today’s water challenges know no borders. Rapid urbanisation, climate change and growing water demand are creating complex pressures that can only be addressed through international cooperation.
This was the key message of the 7th ASEM Seminar on Urban Water Management, held in Helsinki on 27–28 May 2026. The event brought together more than 150 experts, decision-makers, researchers, financial institutions and industry leaders from across Asia and Europe to exchange knowledge, best practices and innovative solutions for sustainable urban water management.
Dr Károly Kovács, Founder of Pureco, President of the Hungarian Water Partnership (HWP) and the Hungarian Water Association (HWA), Vice Chairman of the ASEM Water Academic and Development Committee, played an active role throughout the seminar. In his opening remarks, he highlighted the importance of scientific cooperation and international partnerships in shaping the future of sustainable water management. He also moderated the plenary session on “Optimal Allocation Practice of Urban Water Resources,” where experts from Europe and Asia shared their experiences in resilient infrastructure development and responsible water resource management.
As a speaker, Dr Kovács delivered a presentation on cost-effective arsenic removal solutions, emphasising that successful water infrastructure investments should be assessed not only by their initial capital costs but also by their long-term economic and operational sustainability. His presentation highlighted the importance of life-cycle cost analysis in ensuring affordable and resilient water services.
One of the most significant outcomes of this year’s seminar was the signing of a cooperation agreement between ASEM Water and the African Association of Water Experts (AAEA). The partnership creates a new bridge between Asia, Europe and Africa, fostering knowledge exchange, technological cooperation and innovation across the global water sector.
This intercontinental collaboration is particularly relevant for Pureco. As a member of the Strategic Advisory Board of the African Water and Sanitation Association (AfWASA), Dr Kovács actively strengthens professional ties between Africa and Europe and promotes sustainable water solutions that benefit communities worldwide.
The Helsinki seminar once again demonstrated that water security depends on collaboration, innovation and shared expertise. Pureco remains committed to contributing to international partnerships that advance sustainable water management and help build a more resilient future for communities around the globe.
