Post by : Mariam
Al-Faris
The Sultanate of Oman recently took part in the 6th Forum of Ministers and Environment Authorities of Asia Pacific, also called the 6th AP Forum. This regional meeting brought together representatives from across Asia and the Pacific to discuss some of the world’s most urgent environmental challenges.
For Oman, this participation was not just about attending a meeting. It was about playing a key role in global sustainability. Oman currently chairs the United Nations Environment Assembly (UNEA), and its leadership gives the country the opportunity to shape important conversations about the future of our planet.
Oman’s Delegation And Leadership
Oman’s delegation was led by Dr. Abdullah Ali Al Amri, who serves as the Chairman of the Environment Authority in Oman. He also holds the important international role of Chairman of the Seventh Session of the United Nations Environment Assembly (UNEA-7). His dual role symbolises Oman’s strong presence both regionally and globally.
By heading the UNEA-7, Dr. Al Amri is responsible for guiding the agenda of one of the world’s largest environmental platforms. His leadership shows Oman’s clear commitment to addressing issues like climate change, pollution, biodiversity loss, and desertification.
A Speech On Regional Importance
During his speech at the forum, Dr. Al Amri highlighted why this gathering was so important. He said that the Asia Pacific region has always been deeply connected to nature and community. At the same time, it is one of the most vulnerable regions when it comes to environmental problems like rising sea levels, air pollution, and biodiversity loss.
He explained that the forum is not just a meeting. It is a platform that can raise the voice of the region and connect it with global decision-making. According to him, Asia Pacific countries must work together to show resilience, leadership, and unity in facing environmental challenges.
Preparing For UNEA-7
One of the key purposes of the 6th AP Forum was to prepare for the upcoming Seventh Session of the United Nations Environment Assembly (UNEA-7). This global conference will be held under the theme “Advancing Sustainable Solutions for a Resilient Planet.”
Dr. Al Amri stressed that the Asia Pacific forum is a stepping stone toward UNEA-7. He called on participants to create strong alliances, share their experiences, and send unified messages to the global stage. The aim, he said, is to make UNEA-7 an ambitious and comprehensive meeting that sets real, practical goals for sustainability.
Building Alliances For A Sustainable Future
A strong message from Oman’s participation was the call to build effective alliances. Dr. Al Amri encouraged nations, groups, and communities to come together in the fight against climate change and environmental damage. He explained that no country can face these problems alone.
By creating partnerships, the Asia Pacific region can increase its influence in international talks. These alliances can help create new projects, share technologies, and bring different perspectives together. Such cooperation ensures that the solutions are not just local but global in impact.
Side Meetings And Partnerships
On the sidelines of the forum, Dr. Al Amri held several bilateral meetings with other environment ministers and representatives of non-governmental organisations. These meetings provided opportunities to discuss specific areas of cooperation, such as combating climate change, reducing pollution, and protecting biodiversity.
The discussions also covered ways to strengthen bilateral relations and exchange expertise. Oman highlighted its readiness to cooperate on joint initiatives and programmes. The goal of these talks was not just short-term results, but also long-term cooperation for a sustainable future.
Climate Change As A Common Challenge
Climate change was one of the main issues raised at the forum. Dr. Al Amri explained how rising global temperatures, unpredictable weather patterns, and extreme climate events are creating serious risks. Floods, storms, and droughts are increasing, affecting people’s lives and damaging ecosystems.
He stressed that Asia Pacific countries must take urgent action to adapt to climate change while also working to reduce its causes. He also reminded the audience that the effects of climate change are not limited to one country—they affect the entire region and the whole planet.
Focus On Desertification
Another area of concern highlighted by Oman was desertification. This is the process where fertile land becomes desert, often caused by drought, deforestation, and poor land use. Desertification reduces food production, harms local communities, and destroys ecosystems.
Oman shared its own experiences in combating desertification and managing scarce water resources. Dr. Al Amri explained that knowledge sharing in this field is important. Countries must learn from each other’s successes and failures to protect land resources for future generations.
Biodiversity Protection
The forum also focused on biodiversity. Many countries in the Asia Pacific region are home to unique species and ecosystems. However, biodiversity is under severe threat from human activity, pollution, and climate change.
Oman emphasised the importance of protecting biodiversity not only for the environment but also for cultural and economic reasons. Biodiversity supports food security, tourism, and even traditional lifestyles. Losing it would have serious consequences for both people and the planet.
Oman’s Strong Commitment
Oman’s participation in the 6th AP Forum reflects its strong and ongoing commitment to sustainability. By chairing UNEA-7, Oman has shown that it is not just focused on its own environment but also on global cooperation.
Dr. Al Amri made it clear that Oman sees environmental protection as part of its duty to humanity. He said that Oman is determined to support initiatives that fight climate change, reduce pollution, and protect natural resources.
Working With The World
The Sultanate also highlighted the importance of working with international organisations and stakeholders. Cooperation with non-governmental organisations, youth groups, and local communities was underlined as a key factor in making progress. Environmental protection is not only the responsibility of governments but of all sections of society.
Towards UNEA-7 And Beyond
Looking ahead, Oman is preparing to lead UNEA-7 with the aim of creating real solutions. The Asia Pacific forum provided an opportunity to hear different perspectives, build networks, and develop a regional voice that can contribute strongly at the global level.
Oman is expected to continue building alliances, supporting initiatives, and working with other countries to achieve the goals of UNEA-7. The event in Asia Pacific served as a reminder that the challenges are huge, but so are the opportunities for cooperation.
Oman’s Vision For A Sustainable Planet
Oman’s role in the 6th Asia Pacific Environment Forum was both active and influential. Through leadership, speeches, and meetings, Oman showed its clear vision of a sustainable future. The focus on climate change, desertification, biodiversity, and pollution reduction highlights the main environmental priorities for the region and the world.
By combining local experience with global responsibility, Oman has positioned itself as a strong advocate for environmental action. Its leadership in UNEA-7 is an opportunity to turn words into real action and ensure that the world takes stronger steps toward protecting our planet.
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