WMO President Dr. Abdulla Al Mandous Enhances Space And Climate Cooperation With Kazakhstan

Dr. Abdulla Al Mandous, President of the World Meteorological Organisation (WMO) and Director-General of the UAE National Centre of Meteorology, recently visited Kazakhstan's National Space Centre in Astana. During this visit, he met with Amanat Umbetbayev, a Board Member of the Centre. The meeting focused on enhancing international collaboration in meteorology and space to improve climate forecasting systems in the UAE and beyond.

The discussions highlighted opportunities for cooperation between the UAE and Kazakhstan in areas like space observation, satellite programs, atmospheric data analysis, and weather forecasting. Both parties stressed the importance of sharing expertise and modern technologies to address extreme climate events effectively. They agreed on developing joint programs to expand observation networks supporting sustainable development in Central Asia.

Dr. Al Mandous outlined the WMO’s space program, emphasising satellites' crucial role in monitoring climate and forecasting weather. He noted that the UAE's advanced expertise in satellite technologies positions it as a strategic partner for future regional projects. This collaboration aims to enhance early warning systems against extreme events.

The Kazakh side presented an overview of their National Space Centre's history and achievements in launching satellites and advancing space research. They also shared future plans to expand observation capabilities to promote scientific knowledge and sustainable growth.

Dr. Al Mandous highlighted AI's central role in improving forecast models during a recent international workshop hosted by the UAE’s National Centre of Meteorology (NCM). The workshop brought together experts from various sectors to discuss AI's application in weather forecasting, supporting the UN’s "Early Warnings for All" initiative aimed at providing accurate early warning services globally by 2028.

This visit coincided with Dr. Al Mandous’s participation in the Digital Bridge 2025 Forum in Astana. There, he expressed his honour at joining global leaders at this significant event. In his panel intervention, he emphasised AI's transformative impact on meteorology by converting vast data streams into accurate forecasts that save lives.

International Cooperation for Climate Challenges

He stressed the urgent need for international cooperation to tackle climate challenges like extreme heat and floods through digital technologies and early warning systems. Dr. Al Mandous noted that AI will not only help humanity adapt to climate change but also open new pathways for sustainable economic growth.

On the forum sidelines, Dr. Al Mandous signed a Memorandum of Cooperation between the UAE’s NCM, Kazhydromet, and Kazaeronavigatsia. This agreement focuses on exchanging vital meteorological data and launching a joint pilot project for cloud seeding in Kazakhstan, marking a significant step forward in strengthening global climate security.

Building Resilient Infrastructure

He affirmed that investment in climate monitoring infrastructure directly translates into stronger societal and economic security. The UAE plays a leading role in accelerating the "Early Warnings for All" initiative regionally and globally by sharing expertise and supporting capacity-building efforts.

The meeting concluded with both parties affirming that cooperation between WMO and Kazakhstan’s National Space Centre represents a model of regional integration facing climate challenges. This partnership opens new horizons for developing advanced space systems that strengthen climate security, aligning with UAE Vision 2031 to harness technology for a sustainable future.

With inputs from WAM