Dr Osama Faqeeha - Deputy Minister for Environment, Ministry of Environment, Water and Agriculture, and Advisor to the UNCCD COP16 Presidency

The discussion highlights the interconnectedness of factors in combating climate change, emphasizing the importance of regenerative agriculture, sustainable tourism, ocean health, and biodiversity. Dr. Osama Faqeeha discusses the success of COP16, focusing on land degradation and drought. The economic losses from land degradation are significant, with projections of $23 trillion per year by 2050 if no action is taken. Saudi Arabia's Global Drought Resilience Partnership aims to shift from reactive to proactive drought management. The Red Sea Sustainability Strategy promotes the blue economy while conserving marine ecosystems. Saudi Arabia's Vision 2030 includes environmental sustainability as a core pillar. Successful public-private partnerships, such as the Saudi Green Initiative, demonstrate the potential for economic growth alongside environmental compliance. The Middle East Green Initiative is set to enter its implementation phase.