Page 43 - 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 | Web Release
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.”

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