1 week Ago By Qatar Tribune
Qatar tribune Tribune News Network Doha Minister of Environment and Climate Change HE Dr Abdullah bin Abdulaziz bin Turki Al Subaie inaugurated the opening session of the 71st General Assembly Meeting of the International Council for Game and Wildlife Conservation (CIC) on April 25, at the St. Regis Hotel in Doha. The session was attended by Sheikh Khalifa bin Jassim bin Mohammed Al Thani, chairman of Qatar Chamber; Dr Philipp Harmer, president of the CIC; and Sebastian Winkler, the director-general of the CIC.
Supported by Qatar Chamber, the two-day meeting featured insightful discussions on the interconnection between mediation, sustainable falconry, and green diplomacy—key pillars in advancing global efforts for environmental conservation. In his remarks, Dr Al Subaie said this gathering served as a global platform to reaffirm our shared commitment to striking a balance between sustainable hunting practices and the protection of biodiversity. He noted that hunting has long been an integral part of Qatar’s cultural heritage, stressing the significant responsibility to preserve this rich heritage while protecting our ecosystems—a responsibility that reflects our comprehensive national vision, which seamlessly blends authenticity with modernity.
Dr Al Subaie emphasized the Ministry’s commitment to playing a pioneering role in regulating hunting activities, guided by scientific principles and sound environmental policies. “The Ministry has implemented strict laws and regulations defining hunting seasons and designated areas, alongside rigorous controls to prevent poaching. These include setting catch quotas aligned with the ecosystems’ capacity to sustain marine life—allowing for natural regeneration and the preservation of biodiversity,” he said.
He also cited the Ministry’s reliance on cutting-edge technologies—such as satellite monitoring systems and data-driven environmental analytics—to ensure informed, effective decision-making based on accurate reports and comprehensive data. The minister further emphasised Qatar’s strong commitment to global environmental protection efforts and its active engagement in international partnerships. He highlighted the country’s adherence to international agreements such as CITES, as well as its ongoing collaboration with regional and global stakeholders to address trans-boundary challenges that pose a threat to biodiversity.
Sebastian Winkler said the discussions at the event underscored the crucial role of mediation and green diplomacy in environmental preservation. He emphasised that mediation serves as a key tool in resolving conflicts related to the environment, sustainable falconry, and wildlife protection. Ambassador Dr Wolfgang Friedrich Ischinger, president of the Munich Security Conference Foundation, said the world is experiencing profound and rapid changes every day.
He reflected on major global transformations witnessed across many countries, emphasizing that the Gulf nations are well-positioned to become a leading force on the world stage, thanks to their immense capabilities and potential. He also praised the State of Qatar for its notable progress internationally, especially in the field of mediation, as well as its outstanding achievements across a range of sectors. On this occasion, Sheikh Nasser bin Abdulrahman Al-Thani, managing director and chairman of Qetaifan Projects, expressed his pleasure in the collaboration with the Qatar Chamber, stating: “We look forward to continuing this partnership through future initiatives that serve the community and enhance Qatar’s position on the international stage.
” He added: “Qetaifan Island North project is not merely an urban development; it is a living model of an integrated destination that embodies the balance between authenticity and innovation, investment and social value, profitability and sustainability. We are proud to contribute to shaping a future that supports our nation’s vision and aligns with global standards for responsible development.” The CIC General Assembly meeting featured a series of in-depth discussions covering a range of critical topics, including mediation and the political challenges to hunting, the future of hunting through mediation, hunting as a diplomatic platform, falconry in the Arab world, and the role of falconry in wildlife conservation.
The agenda also included the review of various reports and key sessions. Over the course of the two-day event, the Assembly explored mediation as a powerful tool for addressing conservation-related conflicts across borders and shared interests. Through sessions led by distinguished speakers and experts, the meeting examined how mediation can align the perspectives of diverse stakeholders—balancing the needs of local communities, wildlife managers, and policymakers to foster sustainable and inclusive conservation solutions.
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