Page 34 - MINISTRY OF CULTURE PR REPORT - MAY 2025 (ENGLISH)

5/30/25, 10:54 AM UAE Hosts the First Intergovernmental Session of the IOC Sub-Commission for the Central Indian Ocean - Middle East Business …

IOCINDIO, a regional body under UNESCO’s Intergovernmental Oceanographic Commission
(IOC), aims to strengthen cooperation among Indian Ocean rim countries in the fields of

scientific research and sustainable development.

Underscoring the UAE’s growing leadership on the global stage, the UAE was elected Chair of

the Commission, represented by His Excellency Dr. Saif Mohammed Al Ghais, former Director
General of the Environment Protection and Development Authority in Ras Al Khaimah. This

prestigious appointment enables the UAE to play a central role in guiding the Commission’s
strategic direction, providing technical and logistical support, and advancing the coordination of

regional scientific initiatives and events.

His Excellency Sheikh Salem bin Khalid Al Qassimi, Minister of Culture and Chairman of the
UAE National Commission for Education, Culture and Science, stated: “The founding meeting of
the Oceanographic Commission represents a significant milestone in the UAE’s ongoing

commitment to supporting UNESCO’s programmes, particularly in the vital field of ocean
sciences, which has become a global priority. At the National Commission, we remain dedicated

to strengthening the UAE’s presence on international scientific and cultural platforms through
active collaboration with both local and global partners.”

Her Excellency Dr. Amna bint Abdullah Al Dahak, Minister of Climate Change and the

Environment said: “We are proud to contribute to this important scientific event, which reflects
the UAE’s forward-looking vision to protect the marine environment and advance regional
research in ocean sciences. Our collaboration with UNESCO and participating nations

underscores our shared commitment to building a sustainable future for marine ecosystems.”

His Excellency Raki Phillips, CEO of Ras Al Khaimah Tourism Development Authority, stated:
“The meeting aligns with Ras Al Khaimah’s broader strategy to support environmental and

scientific initiatives while reinforcing the Emirate’s position as a global hub for sustainable
events. We are proud to provide a welcoming and enabling environment that fosters

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