The 18th World Water Congress was held in Beijing, China, between 11-15 September 2023, hosted by the International Water Resources Association (IWRA) and the Ministry of Water Resources of the People's Republic of China.

SUEN President Prof. Dr. Lütfi Akca participated in the congress, held under the main theme of “Water for All: Harmony between Humans and Nature, and delivered speeches on “Water Governance in Türkiye” and “Maintaining Healthy Life of Rivers: Türkiye’s Perspective” in the relevant sessions.

A declaration was prepared by the International Scientific Committee of the Congress at the end of the congress in which it was highlighted that protecting, developing and using water resources in a rational manner is a right that all people and countries have, as well as a common responsibility.