Journalistic interview at Radio Siena TV

Filippo Verre - October 21, 2023

On October 21, 2023, during a guest lecture at LUISS University in Rome, Dr. Filippo Verre, co-founder and president of AB AQUA, discussed hydro-strategic issues, with particular reference to the policies adopted by states such as China and Turkey. The event was followed by an interview conducted by journalist Dr. Simona Sassetti, who delved into the issues discussed during the conference.

During the lecture, Dr. Verre examined how China and Turkey are using water as a strategic tool to increase their global influence. China, Verre explained, has invested heavily in water infrastructure, in particular through the South-to-North Water Diversion project, the largest water transfer system in the world. This policy not only addresses China's internal water challenges, but also strengthens its control over international water resources, especially in Central Asia, where the control of transboundary rivers is becoming a crucial element of regional geopolitics.

On Turkey, Dr. Verre explained how the Southeastern Anatolia Project (GAP), which includes a vast network of dams on the Euphrates and Tigris rivers, has profound strategic implications. “Control of water resources in the Middle East,” said Dr. Verre, “gives Turkey considerable leverage over downstream countries such as Syria and Iraq.” This water management, he continued, is used as a diplomatic and political lever, sometimes generating tensions but also opportunities for cooperation.

In the interview conducted by Simona Sassetti, Dr. Verre also highlighted how water management is becoming an increasingly central issue in international politics, with countries using water resources to advance their national interests, but also as negotiating tools in international treaties. “China and Turkey are key examples of how water is no longer just a natural resource, but a real strategic asset, capable of influencing entire regions,” he explained.

Dr. Verre concluded his interview by emphasizing the importance of responsible and cooperative management of water resources globally, suggesting that well-designed hydro-strategic policies could avoid future conflicts and promote sustainable water management.

The interview can be found at this link: https://www.radiosienatv.it/la-via-dellacqua-alla-luiss-guido-carli-la-conferenza-nazionale-sullidrostrategia-del-senese-filippo-verre/