Page 41 - MINISTRY OF CULTURE PR REPORT - MAY 2025 (ENGLISH)

5/30/25, 10:55 AM UAE Hosts the First Intergovernmental Session of the IOC Sub-Commission for the Central Indian Ocean - Middle East News 247

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.”

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