Saudi Arabia Vows To Enhance Ocean Conservation Efforts Globally

Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Cabinet Member, and Climate Affairs Envoy Adel bin Ahmed Al-Jubeir attended the High-Level Event on Ocean Action: Immersed in Change, held on June 7 and 8. Al-Jubeir emphasised Saudi Arabia's commitment to international cooperation for ocean and marine resource protection.

In his speech, Al-Jubeir stated that Saudi Arabia's local efforts and the Saudi Vision 2030 align with its international commitments to global biodiversity protection. He highlighted the Saudi Green Initiative, which aims to protect 30% of the Kingdom's terrestrial and marine areas by 2030.

Al-Jubeir discussed Saudi Arabia's participation in international negotiations that led to a legally binding agreement for the sustainable use of marine biodiversity beyond national jurisdictions. He also mentioned ongoing negotiations for a legally binding instrument on plastic pollution affecting the marine environment.

During its G20 presidency in 2020, Saudi Arabia launched the Coral Research & Development Accelerator Platform (CORDAP) to support international efforts in marine environment protection. This initiative complements existing global efforts to safeguard marine ecosystems.

Al-Jubeir underscored Saudi Arabia's commitment to protecting Red Sea marine and coastal ecosystems. He highlighted the establishment of the General Organization for Conservation of Coral Reefs and Turtles in the Red Sea (SHAMS).

The Kingdom actively contributes to regional efforts to protect and preserve the marine environment in the Red Sea and the Arabian Gulf. It is a member of the Regional Organization for the Conservation of the Environment of the Red Sea and Gulf of Aden, as well as the Regional Organization for the Protection of the Marine Environment.

Al-Jubeir's remarks reflect Saudi Arabia's dedication to both local and international initiatives aimed at preserving marine biodiversity. The Kingdom's efforts are aligned with its broader environmental goals under Vision 2030, demonstrating a comprehensive approach to sustainability.

With inputs from SPA