Page 39 - 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
among member states, and the expansion of knowledge in ocean monitoring and marine
resource management. It also laid the groundwork for a collaborative framework to tackle
shared environmental challenges, such as climate change and ocean pollution.

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 meaningful scientific dialogue, with the potential to positively impact coastal
communities in the UAE and across the region.”

https://menafn.com/1109613591/UAE-Hosts-The-First-Intergovernmental-Session-Of-The-IOC-Sub-Commission-For-The-Central-Indian-Ocean 2/2