🌍 Ocean Sustainability Meets Economic Interests
Qatar took part in the 30th session of the International Seabed Authority (ISA) Assembly, held July 21–25, 2024, in Kingston, Jamaica. Represented by Omar Ali Al Ali, Assistant Secretary of the Qatari Standing Committee on Sea Laws, the country reiterated its commitment to sustainable ocean governance and responsible seabed mining.
⚖️ Striking a Balance: Mining & Marine Life
During the assembly, Al Ali emphasized Qatar’s support for balanced deep-sea mining policies—ones that protect marine biodiversity while considering economic needs. He called for mining regulations to be based on scientific research and strong environmental safeguards to preserve marine ecosystems for future generations.
Qatar reaffirmed its alignment with the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (1982) and voiced strong backing for ISA’s mission to regulate deep-sea activities responsibly.
📅 Introducing: World Deep-Sea Day
A key outcome of the meeting was the adoption of a new international awareness initiative—World Deep-Sea Day, to be marked every November 1st. Qatar welcomed the move, highlighting its potential to increase global awareness of the fragile deep-sea environments and the importance of their protection.
🌐 Why It Matters
Qatar’s active engagement reflects a broader commitment to sustainable development goals and to ensuring the ocean remains a resource for generations to come. As seabed mining gains global attention, Doha is making sure environmental protection isn’t left behind.