Iran was represented at the 38th ROPME Executive Committee Meeting in Kuwait, focusing on regional cooperation for marine environmental protection. The meeting underscored the importance of joint action among member states to address environmental challenges, with discussions on establishing a biodiversity center and strategies to mitigate pollution from oil tankers.
On Thursday, Iran was represented by Ahmad-Reza Lahijanzadeh from the Department of Environment (DOE) at the 38th Executive Committee Meeting of the Regional Organization for the Protection of Marine Environment (ROPME) held in Kuwait. Established in 1979, ROPME aims to safeguard the marine and coastal ecosystems of the Persian Gulf and Sea of Oman, involving seven member states: Iran, Bahrain, Iraq, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and the United Arab Emirates.
The meeting was chaired by Kuwaiti Minister of Oil and Environment, Mohamed bin Mubarak Bin Dainah, who emphasized the significance of enhancing regional cooperation for marine environmental protection. He stated that collaborative efforts among member states are vital for achieving environmental sustainability and addressing threats to marine resources.
During the previous 37th meeting, Iran advocated for the establishment of a regional center focused on biodiversity. Mojtaba Zoljoodi from the DOE stated, “We have been cooperating with ROPME for the protection of the marine environment of the region for more than 40 years.” He underscored the necessity for a new approach toward tackling marine pollution and preserving the ecological integrity of the area.
Zoljoodi also noted the development of a strategic roadmap under ROPME’s guidance, aiming to provide a clear direction for achieving environmental goals. This plan has undergone approvals with minor amendments, anticipating acceptance from other member states at the current meeting.
In April 2024, Iran’s ambassador to Kuwait, Mohammad Toutounchi, discussed expanding environmental collaboration with ROPME’s Secretary General, Mohammed Al-Ahmad. Toutounchi highlighted concerns regarding environmental pollutants from daily oil tanker traffic in the Persian Gulf, reiterating Iran’s commitment to working with ROPME to mitigate potential ecological disasters.
Al-Ahmad acknowledged Iran’s significant role in managing the Persian Gulf coast and expressed optimism about developing effective pollution management strategies by leveraging Iran’s expertise and fostering cooperation among member states. Over nearly five decades, ROPME has monitored oil tanker movements to reduce environmental pollution in the region.
Iran’s participation in the 38th ROPME Executive Committee Meeting emphasizes its commitment to regional cooperation in marine environmental protection. With ongoing discussions about establishing a biodiversity center and collaborative projects aimed at reducing pollution, both Iran and ROPME aim to enhance environmental sustainability and address pressing ecological challenges in the Persian Gulf and Sea of Oman.
Original Source: www.tehrantimes.com
