NWRC plays not only a national role, but also an international one. On the local scale, the Center - from its inception - has worked to strengthen the research programs of its research institutes. This has been possible by creating linkages with relevant Egyptian Universities and other research centers such as the Agricultural Research Center, the National Research Center and the Egyptian Academy of Scientific Research and Technology.
Further assistance has been offered to the institutes by helping them raise funds from internal and external sources to implement their programs. Other specific assistance is summarized as follows:
- Planning and evaluating research programs.
- Strengthening and upgrading staff capabilities.
- Providing proper space and facilities.
- Organizing seminars, workshops and conferences.
- Publishing research results nationally and internationally.
On the regional scale, NWRC acts as the Coordinating Unit for the African Water Resources Network and is a member of other water resources network in Europe and other countries.
Moreover, in view of the scarcity of water resources, NWRC has taken the lead in setting a general framework for future cooperation between Arab countries, to maximize water benefits, meanwhile conserving Arab water rights and developing appropriate techniques for implementing a common water plan. A proposal for establishing an "Arab Network for Water Research (ANWAR)" has been initiated by NWRC. This network will create Arab-driven solutions and technologies with the sole purpose of sustaining Arab water resources for economic growth.
On the international scale, NWRC has established wide-scale communications with several international organizations and bodies such as:
- BARI Institute, Italy.
- CID (Consortium for International Development).
- CIDA (Canadian International Development Association).
- CIHEAM (International Center for Advanced Mediterranean Agronomic Studies).
- FAO (Food & Agriculture Organization).
- ICID (International Commission for Irrigation and Drainage).
- IPTRID (International Program for Technology and Research in Irrigation and Drainage).
- IWRA (International Water Resources Association)
- JICA (Japanese International Cooperation Agency).
- NEDA (Netherlands Development Agency)
- UNDP (United Nations Development Program).
- UNEP (UN Environmental Program).
- UNESCO (United Nations Education and Scientific Organization) - USAID (US Agency for International Development).
Interrelations with such foreign entities involve technology transfer, training, employee exchange programs, conferences and seminars, field trips and similar activities.
The National Water Research Center is a national institution with an international outlook making a vital contribution to Egypt's development. In this sense, NWRC can truly be considered a model for other developing countries.
