Iran participated in the 38th ROPME Executive Committee meeting in Kuwait, focusing on marine environmental protection and regional cooperation. Ahmad-Reza Lahijanzadeh represented Iran amidst concerns of pollution from oil tankers. The meeting highlighted the importance of strategic planning and collaboration to enhance biodiversity and tackle environmental challenges.
TEHRAN – Iranian representative Ahmad-Reza Lahijanzadeh attended the 38th Executive Committee meeting of the Regional Organization for the Protection of Marine Environment (ROPME), held in Kuwait. Established in 1979, ROPME is designed to safeguard the marine and coastal ecosystems of the Persian Gulf and the Sea of Oman, with seven member nations including Iran, Bahrain, Iraq, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and the UAE.
The meeting was chaired by Kuwaiti Minister of Oil and Environment, Mohamed bin Mubarak Bin Dainah, who emphasized the necessity of enhancing regional cooperation for marine environment protection. He indicated that coordinated efforts among member states are vital for achieving environmental sustainability and addressing the threats to marine resources.
At the previous meeting, Iran proposed the establishment of a regional biodiversity center under ROPME’s framework. Mojtaba Zoljoodi from the Department of Environment noted Iran’s long-standing collaboration with ROPME, emphasizing the need for a new strategic approach to combat marine pollution more effectively.
Zoljoodi highlighted the importance of having a strategic plan developed with ROPME’s guidance, which outlines the future direction for marine environmental protection. The plan was approved with minor adjustments and submitted for endorsement by other member states.
In April 2024, Iran’s ambassador to Kuwait, Mohammad Toutounchi, discussed enhanced environmental cooperation with ROPME Secretary General Mohammed Al-Ahmad. Highlighting concerns over environmental risks posed by oil tanker traffic in the region, Toutounchi indicated Iran’s readiness to collaborate on pollution prevention, research, training, and monitoring efforts.
Al-Ahmad acknowledged Iran’s significant geographical position controlling half of the Persian Gulf coast and the Sea of Oman. He reiterated ROPME’s commitment to reducing environmental pollution and expressed hope for developing plans to clean and protect marine environments through strengthened cooperation among member states and utilizing the expertise of Iranian professionals.
The 38th ROPME Executive Committee meeting underscored the importance of regional collaboration in addressing environmental challenges in the Persian Gulf and Sea of Oman. Iran’s proactive approach towards biodiversity preservation and pollution management demonstrates its commitment to protecting marine ecosystems. By fostering international cooperation, member states can develop effective strategies to mitigate pollution and enhance environmental sustainability in the region.
Original Source: www.tehrantimes.com
