Saudi Arabia reaffirms commitment to coral reef protection at Red Sea forum

JEDDAH: Saudi Arabia has reiterated its firm dedication to protecting coral reefs and marine environments at the Red Sea Coral Reef Forum, held by the General Organization for Conservation of Coral Reefs and Turtles in the Red Sea, known as SHAMS, in Jeddah from Sept. 9 to 13.

The Kingdom’s position is consistent with sustainable development objectives and is bound to solidify its global leadership in environmental conservation and natural resource preservation, the Saudi Press Agency reported on Tuesday.

The forum coincides with the 38th International Coral Reef Initiative meeting, which gathers a diverse group of experts, environmental scientists, decision-makers, university students, and marine environment enthusiasts.

SHAMS CEO Khaled Asfahani said that the forum is part of ongoing efforts to preserve marine environments, address the problems Red Sea coral reefs face, and discuss effective protection strategies.

He added that the forum also focuses on the need to develop joint projects to ensure environmental sustainability, promote the blue economy, and increase awareness about the importance of preserving marine environments to protect coral reefs in the Red Sea and beyond.

Asfahani said that the Kingdom has the capability to drive initiatives that bolster the protection of the Red Sea, making it a global example in marine environment conservation due to visionary leadership focused on environmental protection.

“SHAMS is dedicated to safeguarding the marine environment in the Kingdom, but its ambitions extend beyond borders,” said Asfahani.

He urged increased cooperation to protect marine ecosystems, both in the Red Sea and worldwide, with the aim of protecting natural heritage.

Asfahani stressed that the Red Sea holds vast potential and is a model of biodiversity and sustainable livelihoods for millions of people.