Samhan Discusses with FAO Ways to Strengthen Environmental Cooperation and Support Biodiversity Projects

 الأراضي المقدسة الخضراء / GHLands

Eng. Zaghloul Samhan, Chairman of the Environment Quality Authority, met with Tommaso Vicario, Policy, Monitoring and Coordination Officer at the Global Environment Facility Coordination Unit of the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO), and Fouad Berqiqi, Global Manager of the Small Grants Programme, to discuss ways of strengthening cooperation and joint coordination on a number of environmental issues. The meeting was attended by Dr. Wael Al-Batrikhi, Ambassador of the State of Palestine to Uzbekistan, on the sidelines of the Eighth Assembly of the Global Environment Facility (GEF) held in the city of Samarkand.

Funding Opportunities to Support Palestinian Environmental Efforts

The meeting explored mechanisms for benefiting from international environmental funds, particularly the Green Climate Fund (GCF) and the financing programs available through the Global Environment Facility (GEF). These opportunities are expected to support the State of Palestine’s efforts to protect biodiversity and natural resources while strengthening its capacity to address environmental and climate-related challenges.

Focus on Biodiversity and Hazardous Materials Management

The two sides also discussed prospects for cooperation in the field of biodiversity conservation and the development of priority environmental projects. In addition, they explored ways to strengthen joint efforts in the management of hazardous chemicals and chemical waste, in line with relevant international environmental agreements and commitments.

Implementing Environmental Agreements and Developing Joint Projects

The meeting also examined measures related to the implementation of international environmental agreements, particularly the Rotterdam Convention and the Stockholm Convention. Discussions included the preparation of a national action plan to identify and inventory expired or illegally smuggled chemicals, as well as the development of mechanisms for their safe handling and disposal in accordance with approved environmental standards.

The two sides further explored the possibility of developing joint regional and international projects that would enable Palestine to participate in global initiatives focused on nature conservation, biodiversity protection, and the management of chemicals and hazardous waste. They emphasized the importance of continuing technical coordination and cooperation, while making use of international funding and support opportunities to strengthen environmental action and advance sustainable development goals.