Jordan assumes PERSGA presidency, reinforces commitment to marine environmental protection

AMMAN —  Jordan on Thursday assumed the presidency of the Regional Organisation for the Conservation of the Environment of the Red Sea and Gulf of Aden (PERSGA) during the 21st session of the organisation’s ministerial council, held in Aqaba.

Jordan's presidency will span two years, with Minister of Environment Muawieh Radaideh taking over from Egypt’s Minister of Environment Yasmine Fouad. 

The ceremony was attended by environment ministers and representatives from PERSGA’s member states, the Jordan News Agency, Petra, reported. 

Radaideh emphasised that the meeting demonstrated a shared commitment to safeguarding the unique ecosystems of the Red Sea and Gulf of Aden, which are vital to the economic and social development of member states, describing the regions as among the most valuable natural assets in the region.

The minister also stressed the need for collective action to ensure the long-term sustainability and protection of the marine environment for future generations. 

He also extended his appreciation to Saudi Arabia for hosting PERSGA’s headquarters in Jeddah and to Egypt for its leadership during the previous term.

Highlighting the environmental, economic, strategic, cultural and historical significance of the Red Sea and the Gulf of Aden, Radaideh noted that preserving their integrity requires regional and international cooperation to maintain their resources and strategic importance.

The minister also underscored Jordan's proactive role in environmental conservation, referencing Royal directives that led to the creation of the Aqaba Marine Reserve, which covers 7 kilometres (about 30 per cent of Jordan’s coastline). 

He also pointed out the establishment of a regional centre for marine studies and research.

In his opening remarks, Radaideh emphasized that the meeting reflects a shared commitment to protecting the unique ecosystem of the Red Sea and Gulf of Aden, which plays a crucial role in the economic and social development of member states and is one of the region’s most valuable natural assets.  

He stressed the importance of joint action among all stakeholders to ensure the sustainability and protection of the marine environment for future generations. 

He also commended Saudi Arabia for hosting PERSGA’s headquarters in Jeddah and Egypt for its leadership in the previous term.  

Radaideh highlighted the environmental, economic, strategic, cultural, and historical significance of the Red Sea and Gulf of Aden, underscoring that preserving their integrity requires regional and international cooperation to sustain their resources and strategic importance.  

Radaideh also pointed to Jordan’s active role in environmental protection, referencing Royal directives that led to the establishment of the Aqaba Marine Reserve, covering 7 km, about 30 per cent of Jordan’s coastline, as well as the creation of a regional center for marine studies and research.