Cairo:Minister of Environment Sarwa Abdul Wahid Qadir attended the 37th session of the Council of Arab Ministers Responsible for Environmental Affairs in Cairo, Egypt, alongside ministers and delegates from various Arab nations.
According to National Iraqi News Agency, Abdul Wahid highlighted the urgency of addressing environmental and climate challenges through collective Arab efforts and enhanced regional coordination. She focused on critical areas such as water, land, natural resources, and food security.
The minister emphasized the importance of strengthening capacities to adapt to climate change impacts, combat chemical pollution, and improve environmental management of chemicals. She also called for increased Arab cooperation to fight desertification, restore ecosystems, and manage natural resources sustainably, aiming to boost resilience within Arab communities and support sustainable development.
Abdul Wahid urged for a unified Arab stance at upcoming international climate forums, particularly the 31st Conference of the Parties on Climate Change (COP31). She stressed the development of a coordinated Arab vision addressing climate finance, adaptation, loss and damage, technology transfer, and capacity building.
She further remarked on the necessity of transitioning from international commitments to practical implementation and results. Iraq is ready to work with Arab nations to enhance coordination, share expertise, and support joint initiatives in environment, climate, and sustainable development.
In line with reinforcing Iraq’s role in Arab environmental cooperation, Abdul Wahid announced Iraq’s interest in hosting the next ministerial session in Baghdad, demonstrating Iraq’s dedication to advancing Arab cooperation and addressing priority environmental and climate issues.
Iraq’s involvement in the session underscores its commitment to fostering joint Arab initiatives, regional coordination, and developing sustainable responses to the region’s challenges.