Amna Al Dahak Advocates For Green Growth And Global Partnerships During Visit To Korea

Dr. Amna bint Abdullah Al Dahak Al Shamsi, the UAE's Minister of Climate Change and the Environment, recently concluded a visit to South Korea from 16th to 19th October 2024. The trip aimed to enhance global green growth and strengthen strategic partnerships to tackle environmental challenges. This visit built upon existing cooperation between the two nations, including agreements like one on smart farming research.

During her visit, Dr. Al Dahak took part in the 13th Assembly and 17th Council sessions of the Global Green Growth Institute (GGGI). She highlighted the UAE's commitment to green growth, stating, "The UAE has long embraced green growth to address the most pressing challenges facing the world... We firmly believe that this approach can unlock vast economic and environmental development opportunities."

Dr. Al Dahak emphasised the UAE's achievements in climate commitments, being the first MENA country to pledge net zero by 2050. She noted, "Our partnership with the GGGI has been instrumental in developing crucial initiatives such as the UAE Green Growth National Strategy, the UAE Green Agenda 2015-2030, the National Climate Change Plan 2017-2050... and the UAE Sustainable Finance Framework 2021-2031."

The minister also praised GGGI's role as a catalyst for change: "It transforms dialogue into action, turning the shared vision of a greener future into tangible solutions for a healthier planet and more prosperous societies." Her visit included high-level meetings that reinforced international collaboration between the UAE and South Korea.

Dr. Al Dahak met with Ban Ki-moon, Chairman of GGGI, discussing continued support for sustainable development. The UAE pledged US$4 million for 2024-2025 and explored expanding GGGI collaborations with key ministries like Abu Dhabi's Environment Agency.

She also engaged with Kim Wan-sup, South Korea's Minister of Environment, and Kang Do Hyung, Minister of Oceans and Fisheries. Discussions focused on enhancing bilateral cooperation on environmental issues and maritime protection while exploring new partnerships.

Focus on Agriculture and Food Security

The minister met Kwon Jaehan from South Korea's Rural Development Administration (RDA), where they discussed food security and sustainable agriculture systems. They explored smart agricultural innovations like a successful rice cultivation project in Sharjah’s Al Dhaid region.

Dr. Al Dahak also held discussions with Fiji and Zambia representatives about climate adaptation, sustainable agriculture, and renewable energy collaborations. Highlighting these meetings' importance, she stated: "It is crucial to continue our journey towards green growth, reinforcing existing partnerships, and forging new ones to exchange experiences and achieve our common goals."

Site Visits Highlighting Sustainability

The itinerary included site visits showcasing Korea’s sustainable practices advancements. Dr. Al Dahak visited Sudokwon Landfill Park to see innovative waste management solutions firsthand. She also toured Nongshim, a leading Korean food company known for its smart farming technologies.

Nongshim demonstrated how vertical farming contributes to sustainable agriculture by focusing on crops like leafy vegetables and strawberries. These visits provided valuable insights into Korea’s ecological advancements.

Dr. Amna bint Abdullah Al Dahak's visit marked significant progress in strengthening ties between the UAE and South Korea while advancing global green growth efforts. The UAE remains committed to working with international partners towards a sustainable future for all through initiatives like financing support for GGGI’s core funding in 2024-2025.

With inputs from WAM