Mongolia will host the 17th Conference of the Parties (COP17) to the United Nations Convention to Combat Desertification (UNCCD) from August 17 to 28. The event involves states parties, international organizations, and concerned stakeholders.
According to SPA, Saudi Arabia will participate in the conference on Monday and transfer the presidency to Mongolia. This follows a mandate that included international partnerships and initiatives launched during COP16 in Riyadh.
The Kingdom will present progress on the Riyadh Global Drought Resilience Partnership (RGDRP), the Business4Land initiative, and an international early warning initiative for sand and dust storms. The Riyadh Action Agenda has expanded from 35 to more than 100 initiatives. Saudi Arabia will also highlight efforts to develop vegetation cover, protect natural resources, and promote sustainable solutions to combat desertification.
The Saudi delegation will operate a national pavilion in the blue zone featuring over 40 side events, alongside a pavilion for the Middle East Green Initiative. This follows COP16 in Riyadh in December 2024, which included 197 parties, including 196 states and the European Union, resulting in 39 decisions and over 12 billion dollars for land restoration and drought resilience.
When and where is COP17 taking place? COP17 of the United Nations Convention to Combat Desertification (UNCCD) is being held in Mongolia. The conference is scheduled to take place from August 17 to August 28, with participation from international organizations, concerned stakeholders, and states parties.
What initiatives is Saudi Arabia presenting at COP17? Saudi Arabia is presenting the Riyadh Global Drought Resilience Partnership (RGDRP) and the Business4Land initiative. Additionally, the Kingdom is highlighting the Riyadh Action Agenda, which grew from 35 to over 100 initiatives, and an international early warning initiative for dust and sand storms.
What were the outcomes of COP16 in Riyadh? COP16 took place in December 2024 in Riyadh with 197 parties, consisting of the European Union and 196 states. The event resulted in the adoption of 39 decisions and the mobilization of more than 12 billion dollars for drought resilience and land restoration.
How is the Saudi delegation represented at the conference? The Saudi delegation is using a national pavilion located in the blue zone to host more than 40 side events. Furthermore, there is a dedicated pavilion for the Middle East Green Initiative to showcase environmental efforts.