Arab Meteorology Ministers Endorse Saudi Initiative To Establish Permanent Committee For Regional Cooperation

The Council of Arab Ministers Responsible for Meteorology and Climate gathered for their fourth session at the Arab League's General Secretariat in Cairo. The meeting brought together Arab ministers and officials to discuss significant climate challenges in the region. They also explored ways to improve cooperation among member states.

Saudi Arabia played a prominent role, with Ayman Ghulam, CEO of the National Center for Meteorology (NCM), leading the Saudi delegation. He presented Saudi Arabia's initiative to advance the Arab Permanent Committee for Meteorology, which received approval during the meeting.

This initiative aims to modernise infrastructure, embrace digital transformation, enhance human skills, and strengthen international partnerships. These efforts are designed to support joint Arab initiatives in meteorology and climate fields. Ghulam stressed the need to bolster the Arab meteorological system to address rapid climate changes and extreme weather events threatening environmental, food, and water security in several nations.

Saudi Arabia has restructured its meteorological sector by establishing the NCM as a cutting-edge institution using advanced technologies. The nation expanded its automated monitoring network to cover over 70% of its land area. Additionally, it increased Doppler radars to 17, achieving the highest coverage in the Arab region.

The new Meteorology Law in Saudi Arabia enhances governance and encourages private sector involvement in developing this sector. This law is part of broader efforts to strengthen meteorological capabilities across the region.

Ghulam highlighted that these advancements are crucial for tackling climate challenges effectively. By improving infrastructure and fostering collaboration among member states, Saudi Arabia aims to lead regional efforts in addressing climate issues.

The meeting underscored the importance of collective action among Arab countries. By working together, they aim to mitigate climate impacts and ensure sustainable development across the region.

With inputs from SPA