KUWAIT CITY, June 22: The Environment Public Authority (EPA) reiterated on Sunday its commitment to closely monitor environmental developments and collaborate with relevant bodies to implement necessary precautionary measures amid the current regional situation.

Acting Director General of the EPA, Nouf Behbehani, told Kuwait News Agency (KUNA) that an emergency meeting was convened to address the increasing challenges impacting various sectors, particularly the environmental sector, which demands heightened preparedness and coordinated action.

Behbehani explained that the meeting focused on assessing the environmental impact across the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries in light of recent regional developments. The aim was to review national initiatives and enhance cooperation among member states to mitigate potential environmental risks.

The meeting brought together experts from multiple state agencies, including the National Guard, the Ministry of Health, the Kuwait Institute for Scientific Research, the General Directorate of Civil Defense, the Regional Organization for the Protection of the Marine Environment, and the GCC Emergency Department.

Behbehani emphasized that tackling these challenges requires a unified response based on effective information exchange and the establishment of joint mechanisms for environmental monitoring and swift action.

She highlighted the urgent need for early coordination and clear strategic plans for Gulf-wide environmental response to ensure rapid intervention and minimize adverse effects on the region’s natural ecosystems.

“Environmental security is a vital component of our comprehensive regional security,” Behbehani said. “Achieving it depends on unified efforts, enhanced readiness of relevant authorities, and constructive cooperation to face current and future challenges.”

The acting director general expressed hope that the meeting would mark a new chapter in strengthening Gulf cooperation on environmental matters, fostering stronger institutional partnerships, and safeguarding natural resources for future generations.

She added that the meeting’s objectives included formulating recommendations to advance joint environmental initiatives and boost Kuwait’s preparedness for ongoing and upcoming environmental challenges.

The session also reviewed member states’ national measures and explored ways to improve coordination and collective action against potential environmental threats.