Global warming: Bahrain calls for practical solutions

The world today needs practical and binding mechanisms to reduce the adverse effects of climate change, said a top Bahraini official. There needs to be an “integrated approach” to address the loss of biodiversity, said Dr Shaikh Abdullah bin Ahmed Al Khalifa highlighting the challenges faced by small island states from climate change and global warming.

The Foreign Affairs Ministry Undersecretary for International Affairs was discussing with Undersecretary-General and High Representative of the UN Office of the High Representative for the Least Developed Countries, Landlocked Developing Countries and Small Island Developing States, Fekitamoeloa Utoikamanu. The meeting held on the sidelines of the 74th Session of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA 74) in New York viewed that the solutions should be in line with the sustainable development goals for 2030.

Dr Shaikh Abdullah said Bahrain achieved tangible results in protecting the environment and cutting pollution by relying on renewable energy resources. “Bahrain pays special attention to the environment thanks to the support of His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa,” said Dr Shaikh Abdullah. He also highlighted the role of the Supreme Council for Environment, chaired by HH the King’s Personal Representative, in this regard.

Dr Shaikh Abdullah expressed hope that the Kingdom would benefit from the initiatives launched by international organisations for island countries, including that of the Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO) entitled “Blue Growth” to optimise the utilisation of water resources. Utoikamanu praised Bahrain’s efforts in environmental protection, hailing Bahrain’s successful march in achieving the sustainable development goals 2030 and reinforcing renewable energy resources.