In a world unsettled by conflict and volatile energy markets, the link between water and energy security has rarely mattered more. Mr. Kanda delivered a keynote speech at the International Symposium Commemorating the 50th Anniversary of Japan’s Water Day. Japan established Water Day and Water Week in 1977, recognizing water as a shared national responsibility. Mr. Kanda highlighted Japan’s integrated management of river basins, disaster risk reduction systems, efficient water supply networks, and decentralized wastewater treatment. Water and environmental risks are rising faster than the region’s preparedness, Mr. Kanda warned.