On February 28th, the XVIII World Water Congress' (hereinafter referred to as the“Congress”) International Scientific Committee (ISC) held its first meeting online. Madam Renée Martin-Nagle and Madam Shi Qiuchi (the ISC Co-Chairs) chaired the meeting. In addition, all the Vice-Chairs of ISC, representatives from the IWRA Executive Office, and the Congress Secretariat (CS) attended the meeting. 

The Co-Chairs introduced the tasks and responsibilities of the ISC and the proposals of the congress theme and sub-themes, and proposed the next working plan of the ISC. All participants discussed deeply, brought together insights and key findings, and suggested constructive and practical ways forward. 

The meeting reached a consensus that the ISC shall give full play to its professional supporting role in the preparation of the Congress and assists in organisation,  mobilization and promotion. Relevant documents will be improved after the meeting, and the congress theme and sub-themes proposal will be submitted to the Congress Organising Committee (COC) after consultation with the National Organising Committee (NOC).