PARIS, France, June 10: Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) Secretary General Jasem Al-Budaiwi reaffirmed the bloc's ongoing commitment to marine and environmental protection, highlighting its strategic efforts to safeguard regional waters and support sustainable development goals.

Speaking at the third United Nations Ocean Conference on Monday, held under the patronage of French President Emmanuel Macron and co-hosted by the governments of France and Costa Rica, Al-Budaiwi emphasized the GCC’s resolve to address environmental challenges and reduce ecological risks in the region.

“The Arabian Gulf is home to one of the world’s most vital marine ecosystems, featuring coral reefs, mangrove forests, seagrass beds, and rich fish stocks,” Al-Budaiwi stated. “These resources are fundamental to our region’s food security, economic development, and cultural identity.”

Al-Budaiwi noted that despite its ecological significance, the Arabian Gulf faces mounting environmental stress due to its status as a semi-enclosed sea and a hub of international maritime activity. He cited the more than 40,000 ships that pass through the Gulf annually—including a substantial number of oil tankers—as evidence of its critical role in global trade and energy.

He underscored the GCC’s commitment to mitigating these pressures by investing in modern technologies, strengthening marine protection, and advancing sustainable fisheries management. Al-Budaiwi also stressed the need for cooperation at both national and regional levels, with the GCC developing joint strategies in line with Sustainable Development Goal 14, which calls for the conservation and sustainable use of oceans, seas, and marine resources.

“The health of our oceans knows no borders,” he said, pointing to GCC initiatives such as marine research, pollution control, and the establishment of marine protected areas. He added that efforts are underway to enhance data sharing and develop early warning systems for marine and climate risks.

Al-Budaiwi highlighted the urgent threats facing global marine environments—including rising ocean temperatures, increased acidity, pollution, and habitat degradation—and called for coordinated international action to address them.

“The challenges we face today require innovation, global cooperation, and a sense of shared responsibility,” he said. “The GCC remains fully committed to preserving ocean health for current and future generations.”

The high-level conference brought together leaders, scientists, and policy-makers from around the world to promote ocean conservation and international collaboration amid mounting ecological threats.