In Tehran, the Iranian capital, Mariam bint Mohammed Almheiri, UAE Minister of Climate Change and the Environment, attended the Ministerial Meeting on Environment Cooperation for a Better Future. In order to address shared environmental and climate challenges, the event aimed to advance regional cooperation. A gathering of environmental ministers from countries in the Middle East and Africa (MEA) region as well as representatives of the UN Environment Program (UNEP), NGOs, and academic institutions was held in the presence of Iranian President Dr. Ebrahim Raisi.
In the plenary discussion, Almheiri emphasized the UAE’s efforts to combat pollution, biodiversity loss, and climate change. A ministerial roundtable was also held to discuss ways to enhance regional cooperation. She said, “The transboundary nature of the environmental challenges we face necessitates that we respond in a coordinated manner. Building a sustainable future is a moral obligation towards the next generations, and our success depends on how well we all work together to drive low-carbon, nature-positive, and resilient growth.”
On the sidelines of the Ministerial Meeting, she signed a Memorandum of Understanding with Dr. Ali Salajegheh, Vice President and Head of the Iranian Department of Environment. This will begin collaborative efforts to combat sand and dust storms. A regional action plan will be developed together by the UAE Ministry of Climate Change and Environment and the Iranian Department of Environment in accordance with the agreement.
In addition to exchanging expert visits, setting up a joint task force, and leveraging the experience of relevant international institutions in early warning and forecasting of sand and dust storms, the MoU covers a range of topics. Meetings, seminars, and training courses will also be organized by the two parties.