Qatar Takes Active Role at COP16 in Riyadh.

Riyadh: The State of Qatar is actively participating in the 16th session of the Conference of the Parties (COP16) of the United Nations Convention to Combat Desertification (UNCCD), held in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, from December 2 to 13, 2024. The Qatari delegation is led by HE Minister of Environment and Climate Change Dr. Abdullah bin Abdulaziz bin Turki Al Subaie, who has been at the forefront of discussions on drought resilience and proactive management strategies. According to Qatar News Agency, HE Minister Al Subaie took part in a crucial ministerial dialogue titled "From Geneva to Riyadh and beyond: Enhancing global and national policy instruments for a proactive drought management approach." The dialogue emphasized the need for innovative methods to counter the systemic impacts of drought. During his speech, HE Dr. Abdullah bin Abdulaziz bin Turki Al Subaie reiterated Qatar's commitment to global efforts aimed at enhancing drought resilience. His Excellency underscored the importance of international c ooperation in establishing comprehensive development tools, policies, and programs that focus on drought prevention and adaptation. He highlighted the necessity of shifting from crisis management to preventive management through early warning systems and evidence-based national plans. HE Minister Al Subaie also advocated for investments in innovation and technology, supporting research, and using modern technologies for efficient natural resource management. The minister stressed the importance of community involvement in designing and implementing drought-related programs to ensure sustainable solutions and local resilience. He called for sustainable financing mechanisms and support for projects focused on adapting to drought and rehabilitating degraded lands. Highlighting Qatar's initiatives, HE Dr. Abdullah bin Abdulaziz bin Turki Al Subaie noted the country's efforts in combating desertification, including designating 27 percent of its land as nature reserves and implementing projects for rainwater harve sting and water management. Qatar's strategies include establishing water treatment and recycling plants and developing advanced agricultural irrigation techniques, leading to improved water consumption efficiency. The country has also introduced policies to regulate water use in development projects to achieve a sustainable balance between economic growth and environmental conservation. COP16 represents the largest gathering of UNCCD parties, aiming to address environmental challenges, combat land degradation, and mitigate drought impacts. The conference seeks to mobilize resources for rehabilitating degraded lands and encourages the involvement of decision-makers, the private sector, and civil society in environmental protection efforts.