KUWAIT: The Environment Public Authority (EPA) affirmed on Sunday that the 22nd meeting of the Permanent Committee for the Convention on the Conservation of Wildlife and Their Natural Habitats in Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) member states reflects the ongoing commitment of GCC nations to environmental cooperation and the protection of the region’s ecological heritage. Speaking to KUNA, Acting Director General of the EPA, Nouf Behbehani, said the meeting—held in Kuwait—comes in line with the directives of GCC leaders to strengthen joint environmental action, preserve natural resources and ensure ecological sustainability and biodiversity across the region.
Behbehani noted that the gathering brings together representatives from GCC states, environmental specialists, and officials from the GCC General Secretariat. Discussions will focus on key environmental developments, including updates to the environmental operational plan extending to 2030, and Kuwait’s proposal to form technical working groups to support biodiversity-related environmental agreements.
Acting Director General of the Environment Public Authority, Nouf Behbehani
Engr Abdullah bin Ali Al-Rubaie
The meeting’s agenda also includes preparations for the first Gulf Wildlife Conference, the adoption of a unified logo for the event, and updates to the Gulf Wildlife Agreement and the GCC’s environmental strategic framework. Participants will explore enhanced coordination in implementing global environmental treaties such as the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES), the Ramsar Convention, and the Convention on Biological Diversity.
Additional topics include the regulation of falcon ownership and broader wildlife protection measures. The committee is expected to issue a series of recommendations and action plans, including the endorsement of a unified framework for electronic CITES permits and the approval of upcoming training workshops aimed at protecting endangered species and rehabilitating ecosystems.
Meanwhile, Head of the Human and Environment Affairs Sector at the GCC General Secretariat, Eng. Abdullah bin Ali Al-Rubaie, underscored the importance of the meeting, describing it as a significant step toward achieving greater accomplishments in wildlife conservation in accordance with international best practices. Al-Rubaie praised Kuwait’s leadership and continued commitment to environmental treaties, commending the collaborative efforts of GCC representatives, experts, and officials in promoting environmental sustainability for future generations. — KUNA
