Oman Champions Environmental Stewardship at African Ministerial Conference in Nairobi
Muscat – In a significant move towards bolstering international collaboration on environmental issues, Oman participated in the 20th African Ministerial Conference on the Environment (AMCEN), which took place in Nairobi from July 14 to 18. Leading the charge was Dr. Abdullah bin Ali al Amri, the esteemed Chairman of the Environment Authority and President of the seventh session of the United Nations Environment Assembly (UNEA-7).
This year’s AMCEN was particularly noteworthy as it celebrated its 40th anniversary, a milestone that underscored the conference’s pivotal role in driving sustainable development, enhancing biodiversity protection, climate action, and pollution control across the African continent since its inception in 1985. Dr. Amri emphasized how AMCEN has evolved from its early days in Cairo to become an essential platform for unifying African countries around a common environmental agenda and amplifying their voices in global negotiations.
During his keynote address, Dr. Amri praised the invaluable contributions of AMCEN and the African Union in fostering collective environmental initiatives. He highlighted the collaborative framework established between AMCEN and UNEA as an exemplary model of regional-global partnerships. This collaboration is integral to advancing both the 2030 Sustainable Development Goals and Africa’s Agenda 2063, heralding a brighter, more sustainable future.
Echoing the importance of innovative solutions, Dr. Amri proposed strengthening AMCEN’s role through science-based policymaking, climate-responsive financing, and leveraging cutting-edge digital and AI tools for environmental monitoring. He reinforced the need for inclusive green transitions, ensuring that future development initiatives are equitable and just.
In a whirlwind of side meetings during the conference, Dr. Amri engaged with various stakeholders, including members of the Group of 77 and China, where they exchanged insights on the draft Ministerial Declaration and pertinent agenda topics. Discussions were also held with EU representatives, showcasing Oman’s commitment to fostering international partnerships in tackling environmental challenges.
Furthering the dialogue, Dr. Amri met with the Deputy Permanent Representative of Russia in Nairobi, focusing on discussions surrounding UNEA-7 preparations. Additionally, his consultations with Dr. Yasmine Fouad, the Executive Secretary of the United Nations Convention to Combat Desertification, opened doors for future collaborations aimed at combating desertification and land degradation.
As the world grapples with pressing environmental challenges, Oman’s active participation in AMCEN signifies a strong commitment to joint environmental action, setting a positive tone for future collaborations among African nations and beyond. This dedication to environmental stewardship not only highlights Oman’s leadership in the region but also positions the nation as a key player in addressing global environmental issues.
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