UAE’s Fujairah, G-B sign MoU for environmental cooperation

GILGIT: During the climate conference of United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (COP28), the Fujairah Environment Authority of United Arab Emirates (UAE) and Gilgit-Baltistan Forest, Wildlife and Environment Department signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) to exchange experiences and foster joint cooperation in managing natural and national reserves.

According to a statement received here from UAE on Saturday, the MoU, signed following a recent visit by the environment authority’s delegation to the region, focuses on several key including joint research activities to promote forest and wildlife preservation, exploring new avenues for scientific research, and fostering ecological tourism in protected areas and forest landscapes.

The statement said the MoU also focuses the collection of various species samples to support a Bio Bank project in the Emirate of Fujairah.

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According to the statement, the memorandum also emphasizes the exchange of purposeful programmes to enhance the capacities of staff from both parties to improve administrative and field work efficiency in nature reserves and forests, incorporating the latest technologies and global best practices.

Fujairah Environmental Authority Director Asila Al-Mualla expressed genuine satisfaction with this development. She said the Authority’s 2023-2025 Environment Strategy, under the direction of their leadership, aims to build local and global partnerships. In 2023, the Authority successfully implemented 100% of its target of 22 new partnerships.

“The biodiversity sector is a major focus for the Fujairah Environment Authority, forming the basis of many of its transformational plans for a sustainable future. The partnership with the Gilgit region is a testament to this commitment,” the statement reads.

The statement said that the bilateral partnership not only strengthens the ongoing relations between the Emirate of Fujairah and the Gilgit Baltistan region but also extends to promoting economic, social, and cultural aspects with local communities. It aims to create an ecological balance between the environment and humanity, preserving it for future generations, it added.

The signing ceremony was attended by Fujairah Environmental Authority Director Asila Al-Mualla, Gilgit Baltistan Forest Wildlife and Environment Secretary Zafar Waqar Taj, and the Director of Wadi Wurayah Biosphere Reserve Dr Ali Al Hamoudi, along with other delegates.