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The Ministry of Environment and Climate Change’s Wildlife Protection Department in co-operation with the Environmental Security Unit of the Internal Security Force (Lekhwiya) has carried out an extensive inspection campaign in the southern regions of the country aimed at reducing environmental violations regarding the use of bird-attracting devices.The campaign resulted in the seizure of around 474 bird-attracting devices (sound lures), and the necessary legal measures were taken in accordance with the applicable laws and regulations in this regard. The ministry stressed the importance of adhering to environmental laws and regulations and refraining from using methods that harm wildlife and biodiversity. It also noted that the campaign is ongoing as part of its efforts to protect Qatar’s environment and preserve its natural components.

The Ministry of Education and Higher Education (MoEHE) has launched the quality assurance guide for education centres as part of its ongoing efforts to enhance performance and improve efficiency, ensuring comprehensive quality and institutional excellence.In a statement, the ministry said that the guide sets clear procedures, tools, and standards that enable it to accurately evaluate the performance of education centres, thus, enabling constant improvement to their outcomes and operations.It added that the quality assurance guide establishes a mechanism to evaluate and classifying centres into four categories: Excellent, Good, Acceptable, and Weak.The statement said that this classification is based on both internal and external evaluation processes that ensure accuracy and objectivity.The MoEHE indicated that the guide also helps monitor centres’ compliance with laws and licensing regulations, and assessing their performance based on five specific national standards:Leadership and managementHuman and material resourcesEducational and training environmentMonitoring and evaluationLocal and international partnershipsThese standards cover 11 areas and include 29 performance indicators.The guide outlines the roles and responsibilities of the Department of Educational Services Centres, the evaluation committee of education centres, and education centres themselves, ensuring co-ordination and alignment in achieving set goals.In a related context, the ministry announced a training programme scheduled for November, targeting a number of pilot education centres involved in implementing the quality assurance guide, in preparation for its nationwide rollout.The guide was reviewed and validated by several national institutions, including the University of Doha for Science and Technology (UDST), the Community College of Qatar (CCQ), Qatar Foundation’s Pre-University Education (PUE), and the National Committee for Qualifications and Academic Accreditation, in addition to the Educational Planning, Policy and Innovation Department, and the School Evaluation Department.

The Reformatory and Penalty Institutions Department at the Ministry of Interior (MoI) has welcomed a group of students from the Police Sciences Diploma Programme at the Police Institute, as part of efforts to strengthen academic and practical co-operation between security agencies and educational institutions within the ministry.According to a post by MoI on X, the student delegation was received by Major-General Nasser Mohammed Isa al-Sayed, the director of the Reformatory and Penalty Institutions Department, who stressed the importance of such visits in reinforcing professional values among them, and familiarise them with the nature of work within the reformatory and penal institutions and their role in the overall security system.During the visit, Colonel Youssef Bilal al-Abdullah, the assistant director of the department, delivered an introductory lecture outlining the department’s role in the rehabilitation and reform of inmates.He reviewed its responsibilities and assigned duties, in addition to its efforts to provide a safe and motivating environment that encourages positive change.The students undertook a field tour of facilities within the institution, and were briefed on the services provided to inmates and the resources available to support rehabilitation and reform programmes.

The Argentine Embassy in Doha recently hosted its third edition of ‘Art, Fashion, and Cultural Diplomacy Exhibition’, highlighting the importance of cultural exchange as a key theme driving the relationship between Qatar and Argentina. Speaking to reporters at the event, Argentine ambassador Guillermo L Nicolas underlined the exhibition’s role in setting the stage for the ‘Qatar-Argentina Year of Culture 2025’, which features numerous events in Doha and Buenos Aires. He said the event aims to connect the traditions of both nations, showcasing elements such as intangible cultural heritage and artworks, including paintings created by several diplomats and their wives. Nicolas cited the recent exhibition of Latin-American art at the National Museum of Qatar as a successful precursor, describing it as “the gem of our cultural year.” The exhibition, which concluded on July 19, featured around 170 works by more than 100 pioneering and contemporary Latin American artists, including iconic pieces from Frida Kahlo, Diego Rivera, Wifredo Lam, Fernando Botero, and Antonio Berni. He said that cultural exploration uncovered unexpected common ground, leading them to realise they are “much closer than we believe” through shared aspects like traditional garments, a love for horses, and the importance of family. The envoy pointed out that cultural diplomacy is a main element not only for showcasing national identity but also for improving international relations. He said it serves as the essential foundation for international relations, asserting it is the primary method to foster mutual understanding and to create a network through which political and economic ties can be successfully developed. He noted that despite the vast geographical distance, cultural comparison reveals deep similarities. According to Nicolas, the year-long initiative of Qatar Museums is designed to solidify the bond forged during the 2022 FIFA World Cup, which saw an influx of approximately 45,000 Argentinian visitors. “We have an amazing connection between the two peoples during the World Cup,” he recounted, adding that the cultural initiative is “a good opportunity to continue this relation.” The envoy said such initiative aligns with Qatar’s vision of becoming a global cultural hub, an effort he lauded, noting Qatar’s “wonderful position in the cultural world.” He suggested that sports should be viewed as part of cultural tradition, as the Year of Culture facilitates the exchange of artistic expressions, allowing Qatari art to be showcased in Argentina and Argentinian culture to be displayed in Doha. Nicolas added that he sees the 2025 initiative as “just one more milestone” in the already strong political, economic, and trade relationship between the two countries.

The second day of the Aspetar World Conference on Precision Athlete Health and Performance brought together leading international and regional experts to showcase the latest innovations and advancements in sports medicine and athlete care.The day’s sessions and discussions focused on strengthening injury prevention standards, evidence-based diagnostics, and comprehensive health approaches tailored to athletes.Keynote sessions delivered by world-renowned specialists drew strong engagement and interaction from attendees. Dr. Marco Cardinale presented strategies to safeguard young athletes from injury, while Roula Kotsifaki introduced new protocols to enhance anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injury treatment. Dr. Marcelo Bordalo explored the integration of artificial intelligence and advanced medical imaging technologies in managing athlete injuries, and Dr. Khalid Al Khelafi together with Dr. Andrea Mosler shared the latest insights on cartilage injury management. Dr. Roald Bahr outlined the International Olympic Committee’s most recent strategies to protect the health of elite athletes.Specialised sessions provided participants with in-depth knowledge on topics including innovations in sensorimotor rehabilitation programs, mental health and sleep and their impact on sports performance, cardiac conditions in athletes, sports nutrition, national sports medicine programs, regenerative medicine techniques, nursing development in the sports sector, and emergency and first-aid protocols in athlete care.Accompanying discussions and recommendations emphasised adopting AI-driven diagnostics and data analytics to improve injury assessment and management, prioritizing early screening and tailored training oversight for young athletes to prevent chronic injuries, and integrating mental health and sleep management as essential components in sports medicine practice. Speakers also highlighted the vital leadership role of nurses and healthcare teams as the first line of defence in athlete care.A hallmark of Aspetar’s approach, reinforcing its unique position in the global sports medicine landscape, is its commitment to addressing all surrounding aspects of athlete health, including psychological and nursing care. Nutrition-related discussions covered evidence-based nutritional strategies for performance enhancement and recovery, as well as cutting-edge regenerative medical techniques.The conference will conclude Saturday, on its third and final day, while scientific workshops will continue Sunday and Monday. These events underscore Aspetar’s dedication to excellence and international collaboration in sports medicine and its drive to embed innovation into athlete care. The insights and recommendations emerging from Day Two promise to have a lasting impact on athlete health, safety, and performance worldwide.

Doha Forum, in collaboration with the International Crisis Group, convened an expert panel discussion in Brussels on Thursday, titled "Fault Lines and Frontlines: Intersecting Conflict Theatres in the Middle East and Europe." The event, held at the Embassy of the State of Qatar, brought together diplomats, officials, and policy experts for a timely discussion on the growing interconnection between conflict dynamics across both regions.As geopolitical tensions deepen and conflict theatres become increasingly interdependent, the session examined how developments in one region influence the security, economic, and humanitarian landscapes of the other. Panelists discussed the implications of shifting alliances, energy interdependence, and the role of major and regional powers — from the United States and the European Union to Turkiye and the Gulf states — in navigating these complex and overlapping challenges.The event featured opening remarks by Executive Vice President of the International Crisis Group Richard Atwood, and His Excellency Executive Director of the Doha Forum Mubarak Ajlan Al Kuwari.Panelists included: Permanent Delegate of Turkiye to the EU Ambassador Faruk Kaymakci; Special Envoy for the Middle East at the Belgian Ministry of Foreign Affairs Ambassador Johan Verkammen; Managing Director for the Middle East and North Africa at the European External Action Service (EEAS) Ambassador Helene Le Gal; and Deputy Executive Director of the European Institute of Peace Stine Lehman-Larsen.HE Executive Director of Doha Forum, said: "Doha Forum is committed to fostering dialogue that bridges regions, perspectives, and disciplines. The dynamics connecting Europe and the Middle East underscore the importance of collective understanding and cooperative diplomacy. Events like this help strengthen mutual engagement and advance more inclusive, effective approaches to conflict prevention and resolution."Meanwhile, Executive Vice President, International Crisis Group said: "We are a proud partner of the Doha Forum. We are pleased that this year, which marks Crisis Group's 30th anniversary, we also have the opportunity to co-host a side-event with the Doha Forum in Brussels. Specifically, we felt it was important to discuss the growing interdependence of conflict theatres in the Middle East and Europe and identify opportunities for cross-regional collaboration to better prevent and resolve conflicts."The Doha Forum - International Crisis Group event took place ahead of Doha Forum 2025, which will be held in Doha from 6 to 7 December under the theme "Justice in Action: Beyond Promises to Progress."The Doha Forum is a leading global platform that brings together leaders, policymakers, entrepreneurs, civil society representatives, and thought leaders to exchange visions and work together to find innovative solutions to the world's most pressing challenges.The Forum's vision is based on the values ​​of integrity, inclusivity, innovation, respect for diversity of viewpoints, and fostering a culture of mutual respect and shared progress.The last edition of the Doha Forum was held in December 2024, under the theme "The Innovation Imperative," with over 5,000 participants from over 162 countries, including over 350 speakers, attending the two-day event.

Under the patronage of HE the Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman bin Jassim al-Thani, the Administrative Control and Transparency Authority (ACTA) on Wednesday launched the National Strategy to Promote Integrity, Transparency, and Prevent Corruption (2025-2030).The strategy was unveiled during a ceremony attended by senior officials and dignitaries. It aims to strengthen anti-corruption frameworks and aligns with Qatar National Vision 2030 and the Third National Development Strategy (2024-2030).Speaking at the event, HE President of the Administrative Control and Transparency Authority, Hamad bin Nasser al- Misnad,​​ described the new strategy as an advanced strategic step. He noted that it is a practical extension of the state's approach to promoting efficiency and accountability.The strategy is fully consistent with the Third National Development Strategy, specifically the 'Distinguished Government Institutions' pillar, HE al-Misnad said. This pillar, he explained, emphasizes raising the efficiency of the government sector, ensuring quality services, and building institutions capable of effectively responding to sustainable development challenges.Al-Misnad clarified that the National Strategy to Promote Integrity will help activate this pillar by establishing principles of transparency and accountability, linking institutional performance to standards of integrity, and promoting a culture of corruption prevention as a foundation for government excellence, adding that this will ultimately support the state's efforts to build an efficient administrative apparatus capable of supporting the national economy and serving the community with competence and transparency.He stressed that the strategy stems from the insightful vision of the wise leadership and a firm belief that integrity is not an administrative luxury, but a national necessity, a developmental requirement, and a moral basis that strengthens the trust of citizens and residents in state institutions and reinforces a culture of responsible work.He stated that this framework completes continuous national efforts in the field of anti-corruption, noting that in recent years, the state has developed an effective legislative and institutional system, strengthened the role of supervisory bodies, and adopted administrative practices that enshrine transparency and accountability in government work.He pointed out that the strategy was developed using a precise scientific methodology and according to international best practices. It covers key sectors, including the public sector, the private sector, the legislative framework, and society, with the goal of achieving realistic, measurable results that will improve the quality of public services, raise the efficiency of institutional performance, and strengthen the local and international community's trust in Qatar's work and investment environment.Al-Misnad emphasized that the project could not have materialized without the sincere political will, which was repeatedly expressed by His Highness the Amir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad al-Thani, who stressed that public office is a responsibility, not merely an entitlement, and that combating corruption requires strict standards, in addition to linking promotion and wages with productivity and merit.The ACTA president outlined that the strategy prioritizes a comprehensive national partnership, giving great importance to the integration of roles among state institutions, the legislative authority, supervisory bodies, the private sector, and civil society. This approach is based on the conviction that anti-corruption is a collective responsibility that requires awareness and institutional and ethical practice on the ground, not just decisions.He stated that the strategy is built upon five principal pillars: Enhancing Integrity in the Public Sector through good governance; Raising the Level of Transparency in the Private Sector; Developing the Legislative Framework that supports prevention and accountability; Promoting Community Awareness of the culture of integrity; Entrenching Governance, Transparency, and Corruption Prevention Practices at the level of public policies.He added that these pillars integrate to form a comprehensive national framework that boosts institutional effectiveness, establishes the principles of justice and equal opportunity, and contributes to building a resilient national environment that is resistant to corruption risks and compliant with international standards and national development priorities.HE al-Misnad​​ noted that the strategy takes contemporary challenges into account, including economic openness, digital transformation, the necessity of enhancing cybersecurity, and confronting transnational economic crimes, stressing that this focus will boost the state's readiness to keep pace with global developments and solidify Qatar's position in international transparency indices by building a developmental model based on justice, equality, and equal opportunity.The launch event included a documentary film about the strategy's pillars, as well as panel discussions highlighting its key components and best national and international practices in the field.The strategy represents a pivotal national stage in promoting integrity and establishing the principles of transparency and corruption prevention, thereby contributing to sustainable development and reinforcing Qatar's regional and international standing.

The Qatar Motor and Motorcycle Federation (QMMF) is once again set to bring the region’s karting scene into the spotlight as it will host the MENA Karting Championship Nations Cup 2025 at Lusail Karting Circuit from October 21–25, 2025. Following the resounding success of its inaugural edition in 2023 and its return in 2024, this year’s championship promises to deliver an even bigger showcase of regional motorsport talent.The championship will feature more than 150 drivers from 18 nations across the Middle East and North Africa, with competitors representing countries including Qatar, Algeria, Bahrain, Egypt, Iraq, Jordan, Kuwait, Lebanon, Mauritania, Morocco, Iran, Oman, Palestine, Saudi Arabia, Syria, Tunisia, United Arab Emirates, and Yemen. Drivers will compete across six Rotax Max Challenge categories — Micro Max (ages 8–11), Mini Max (ages 10–13), Junior Max (ages 12–15), Senior Max (ages 14+), DD2 (ages 15+), and DD2 Masters (ages 31+) — alongside the R390 Sprint and R390 Endurance categories open to drivers aged 15 and above.The action-packed schedule will see administration and driver briefings open on 21 October, with practice sessions held across October 22 and 23, alongside a formal Welcome Ceremony and Gala Dinner. Racing will then take center stage from October 24–25, featuring qualifying sessions, heats, the R390 Endurance race, Pre-Finals, and Finals, culminating with the Championship Awards and MENA Nations Cup Presentation on the evening of October 25.Spectators are invited to enjoy all the high-octane action with free admission throughout the event. A dedicated shuttle service will operate between General Admission Parking and the karting track, while visitors can also experience a vibrant entertainment zone with racing simulators, a radio-controlled car circuit, PlayStation 5 gaming stations, and a 360-degree photo booth. For fans unable to attend in person, all races will be streamed live on QMMF’s official YouTube channel.Last year’s edition saw Lebanon claim the MENA Nations Cup title, with Morocco finishing second and the UAE securing third place, highlighting the depth of talent across the region. With the bar set high in 2024, this year’s championship is poised to deliver another thrilling weekend of racing and national pride.

The Qatar National Library (QNL) organised a panel discussion on Tuesday that brought together scholars to explore the often overlooked yet vital role women have played in shaping cultural and social ties amid some of the Islamic world’s most significant upheavals.Held under the theme of Women in Al Andalus and Palestine: From Marginalisation to Influence, the panel featured Dr Fadwa al-Haziti, professor of higher education at Hassan II University in Casablanca and an expert in cross-cultural and post-colonial studies, and Dr Basma Dajani, professor of Arabic language and literature at the University of Jordan, renowned for her research on women patrons in Arab-Islamic civilisation.The panel explored how women cultivated values of steadfastness and sacrifice, emerging as pillars of resistance and guardians of collective memory despite enduring displacement, marginalisation, and loss."The seminar focuses on Arab and Muslim women throughout history with particular emphasis on the experiences of Andalusian and Palestinian women,” said Dr al-Haziti.“Our nation has faced challenges throughout its history similar to those we face today, such as the post-Andalusian period,” she continued. “This discussion aims to highlight the reality of Palestinian women, affirm their right to preserve their memory and identity, and shed light on their suffering under occupation, including violence, siege, famine, and genocide.""Invoking Andalusia in the context of Palestine is not about making comparisons, but about reflection and broadening perspectives,” Dr al-Haziti stressed. “From this perspective, we explore the shared experiences of Andalusian and Palestinian women, with a focus on their influence and marginalisation.”"The primary goal of this gathering is to reinforce awareness of the Palestinian cause, not only in terms of supporting the Palestinian people, but also recognizing that Palestine’s struggle is central to the Arab and Islamic world," she added."At a time when moral values are eroding, Gaza, with its women and children, serves as a moral compass, reminding us that belief in truth, commitment to homeland, and preservation of dignity are at the core of our humanity,” said Dr Dajani. “When dignity is stripped away, life itself loses its justification.”"Thus, revisiting pivotal moments in our Arab-Islamic history is not a retreat into the past, but a call for resilience, collective action, and cultural responsibility to confront the ongoing genocide in occupied Palestine and to ensure that humanity and dignity remain at the forefront of global consciousness," she added."At the QNL, we are committed to preserving and disseminating our cultural heritage,” said QNL engagement specialist Ikhlas Ahmed. “This panel sheds essential light on the profound contributions of women in bridging cultures and preserving identity across the Arab world. Their central role in the social fabric of our region underscores the vital impact women have on society."

The Ministry of Municipality has announced the launch of the pilot version of the Institutional Excellence and Knowledge Transfer System, based on artificial intelligence (AI) technologies. This is the first step of its kind in the region, coinciding with the launch of the evaluation process for the second edition of the Qatar Government Excellence Award.The new system was launched in collaboration between the Information Systems Department and the Planning, Quality, and Innovation Department. It represents a qualitative shift in the concept of institutional excellence, leveraging artificial intelligence tools to achieve superior performance and ensure the sustainability of institutional excellence through continuous improvement, accuracy, and speed of completion.The ministry explained in a statement that the system aims to enhance awareness of the concepts of excellence and innovation among leaders and decision-makers, and to spread a culture of institutional excellence within the ministry, keeping pace with the pace of digital transformation and modern institutional development trends. Excellence has become a strategic necessity dictated by global competition. The new system’s most prominent features include its role as a virtual assistant for standards leaders, rapid access to results and outputs, enhanced awareness and dissemination of a culture of institutional excellence, integrated connectivity between relevant standards and practices, the ability to extract evidence and information quickly and accurately, and the provision of an innovative, interactive environment to enhance employee engagement.The ministry emphasised that the system represents more than just a technical tool; it is a strategic partner in the institutional excellence journey and a driver of knowledge innovation. It noted that it was developed through extensive collaborative efforts and working sessions with partners from AI technology providers, establishing it as a pioneering model for digital transformation in the field of institutional excellence and innovative work.

Under the patronage of the Ministry of Environment and Climate Change (MoECC), ‘Injaz Qatar’, in collaboration with Nestlé, launched the ‘Sustainability Heroes’ programme, which aims to raise environmental awareness among youth in Qatar and prepare a new generation capable of addressing sustainability and climate change challenges.The launch ceremony was attended by Injaz Qatar and Injaz Al-Arab chairperson HE Sheikha Hanadi bint Nasser al-Thani and Swiss ambassador to Qatar, Florence Tinguely Mattli, alongside a number of officials and representatives from relevant entities.The ceremony included a panel discussion titled ‘Nurturing a Generation of Sustainability Heroes’, featuring Dr Abdullah Ahmed al-Tamimi, head of the Sustainable Production and Consumption Department at the Ministry of Environment and Climate Change; Sebastien Turbot, director of Advocacy and Communications at Earthna; and Tarek Abouzolf, general manager of Nestlé Qatar.The discussion addressed mechanisms for enhancing youth participation in sustainability programmes through awareness and interactive activities that link theoretical knowledge with practical experiences.Dr al-Tamimi affirmed that the MoECC places special importance on encouraging students to participate in field and community activities, as these play a key role in translating theoretical knowledge into practical action that enhances their environmental awareness and supports the country’s vision of building a green economy and a sustainable society.Abouzolf added: “We will continue to support students from ideation to implementation, providing training and career opportunities so that their projects can evolve into solutions that benefit society and the environment.”The discussion session was moderated by Injaz Qatar CEO Emad al-Khaja, who highlighted the vital role of collaboration between the private sector and the education sector.

The Ministry of Environment and Climate Change (MoECC) has launched the National Strategy to Combat Desertification 2025-30, as part of Qatar's efforts to protect its natural resources, enhance their sustainability, and mitigate land degradation and the impacts of drought, in line with Qatar National Vision 2030 and the Third National Development Strategy 2024-30.The strategy aims to establish a comprehensive national framework to combat desertification and achieve land degradation neutrality by improving the efficiency of natural resource management and strengthening supportive legislation and policies, thereby contributing to the protection of ecosystems and the achievement of sustainable development.In his remarks during the launch ceremony, HE the Minister of Environment and Climate Change Dr Abdullah bin Abdulaziz bin Turki al-Subaie affirmed that desertification and the depletion of natural resources pose escalating environmental challenges that require collective efforts both locally and globally.He emphasised that the launch of this national strategy reflects Qatar's commitment to protecting the environment and honouring its international obligations, particularly under the UN Convention to Combat Desertification (UNCCD).HE Dr al-Subaie said that the strategy is based on advanced scientific and technical foundations and aims to enhance the State's capacity to address the effects of drought and desertification, protect vegetation cover, and ensure biodiversity sustainability, in alignment with UN Sustainable Development Goal 15: Life on Land.He added that the strategy encompasses six key outcomes: protecting ecosystems and reducing factors contributing to desertification and drought; promoting sustainable management of natural resources; strengthening vegetation cover and rehabilitating affected environments; building capacity and supporting scientific research and innovation; developing legislation, policies, and effective governance; and enhancing community participation and national and international partnerships.HE Dr al-Subaie noted that these pillars form the foundation for the programmes and projects that the ministry will implement in partnership with national and international entities, as well as local communities.He added that the ministry, as the national focal point for the UNCCD, co-ordinated efforts with relevant stakeholders in the public and private sectors and civil society institutions to prepare the strategy, which includes practical programmes and projects, most notably the rehabilitation of terrestrial environments, cultivation of native plant species, establishment of nurseries for the propagation of local species, and the updating of legislation governing the use of natural resources.HE Dr al-Subaie added that the ministry is leading the implementation of the strategy in co-operation with concerned entities through an integrated institutional and operational framework that includes regular monitoring and evaluation mechanisms, clear identification of responsibilities and authorities, and the provision of the necessary human, technical, and financial resources.The minister further noted the activation of modern technological tools for monitoring and management to ensure the effective and sustainable execution of all programs and projects.He called for greater collaboration among national sectors to ensure the effective implementation of the strategy and the achievement of its objectives in addressing desertification, protecting the environment, and ensuring sustainability for future generations.Assistant Undersecretary for Protection and Natural Reserves Affairs Dr Ibrahim Abdul Latif al-Muslimani said that the launch of the strategy comes as part of the ministry's efforts to establish an integrated national approach to address desertification and related environmental challenges.He said that the strategy represents a comprehensive framework that promotes ecosystem protection, rehabilitation of affected environments, and development and sustainability of vegetation cover, in addition to strengthening sound management of natural resources.Dr al-Muslimani stressed the importance of raising environmental awareness across all segments of society, developing training programmes and institutional capacity-building, and promoting scientific research and innovation in the field of sustainable land management.He pointed out that the preparation of the strategy came in response to the environmental challenges facing Qatar, including the scarcity of natural resources, fragile vegetation cover, and encroachment of sand dunes.Adel Mohammed al-Yafei, the head of the Wildlife Development Department’s Plant Wildlife Section, said that the National Strategy to Combat Desertification, is a milestone in the ministry's record of achievements.He said that the strategy seeks to develop early warning and environmental monitoring systems, stabilise sand dunes, mitigate the effects of climate change, and promote balanced management of water, soil, and mineral resources.The official added that the strategy includes projects to rehabilitate affected ecosystems, improve the efficiency of agricultural land use, and enhance research and innovation through the adoption of smart agriculture technologies and the use of artificial intelligence applications in natural resource management, as well as promoting applied studies related to combating desertification.Al-Yafei noted that the Wildlife Development Department continues to implement national programmes to combat desertification through integrated policies aimed at rehabilitating degraded rangelands, cultivating native plant species, expanding the establishment of national nurseries to propagate and preserve local flora, and enforcing ministerial decisions to curb overgrazing and combat invasive plant species that threaten local ecosystems.He said that the department is committed to applying clear measures to protect vegetation cover and wildlife within development projects at all stages of implementation, in a way that strengthens environmental balance and supports national efforts to combat desertification and land degradation.The launch ceremony was attended by HE the Minister of Municipality Abdullah bin Hamad bin Abdullah al-Attiyah, HE the Undersecretary of the Ministry of Environment and Climate Change Abdulaziz bin Ahmed al-Mahmoud, and Public Works Authority (Ashghal) President engineer Mohammed bin Abdulaziz al-Meer, along with assistant undersecretaries, senior officials from environmental, academic, and research sectors, and representatives of national institutions and the private sector.