Written by: Vinod Kumar

Saudi Arabia has announced a substantial commitment of $2.5 billion to the Middle East Green Initiative, aimed at advancing environmental sustainability across the region.

Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Cabinet Member, and Envoy for Climate Affairs, Adel bin Ahmed Al-Jubeir, emphasized the Kingdom’s dedication to environmental protection during a panel discussion titled “Saudi Arabia’s Efforts in Climate Change.”The initiative, which has attracted participation from numerous countries and issued its charter, is poised to become the largest of its kind globally. Al-Jubeir stressed the importance of afforestation in addressing climate change, aligning with the goals outlined in Saudi Vision 2030.

Speaking at the first National Greening Forum in Riyadh, Al-Jubeir highlighted the interconnectedness between environmental issues and global well-being. He underlined the Kingdom’s responsibility as the world’s largest oil producer to lead efforts in combating climate change, not only by adhering to international standards but also by shaping them.Afforestation and land rehabilitation were emphasized as pivotal strategies, not only for environmental purposes but also for security and stability. Al-Jubeir noted the potential for climate-related disasters to disrupt economies, supply chains, and transportation networks, impacting consumers.

The Saudi and Middle East Green Initiatives, launched by Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, aim to leverage the Kingdom’s expertise in circular carbon economy, combating desertification, and reducing carbon emissions. These initiatives reflect Saudi Arabia’s leadership in environmental stewardship and its commitment to addressing global challenges.