Baku: Shaikh Mohammed bin Ahmed Al Khalifa, Undersecretary for Municipal Affairs at the Ministry of Municipalities Affairs and Agriculture, took part in the 13th World Urban Forum (WUF13) as a member of Bahrain's delegation, led by Amna bint Ahmed Al Romaihi, Minister of Housing and Urban Planning. The event focused on the theme "Housing the World: Safe and Resilient Cities and Communities."
According to Bahrain News Agency, the undersecretary emphasized Bahrain's dedication to environmental sustainability and climate action. He stated that these efforts align with the visions of His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa and follow the directives of His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, the Crown Prince and Prime Minister. Shaikh Mohammed noted that Bahrain has made significant strides in executing its National Action Plan for Carbon Neutrality, the National Afforestation Plan, and the Bahrain Mangroves Initiative, underscoring the kingdom's initiatives to mitigate climate change and conserve natural resources.
Shaikh Mohammed also recognized the contributions of Her Royal Highness Princess Sabeeka bint Ibrahim Al Khalifa in backing environmental and agricultural projects, which aim to expand green spaces, enhance sustainability, and bolster food security. During his speech at the forum, he elaborated on Bahrain's achievements in afforestation, environmental sustainability, and urban development. Notably, 68% of the National Afforestation Plan's objectives have been met, with approximately 2.4 million trees planted out of a target of 3.6 million by 2035.
He further explained that Bahrain is continuously working to enhance green areas across public amenities and roadways, implement modern irrigation systems utilizing treated water, and increase the use of native plants that are well-suited to local climate conditions. These initiatives are part of Bahrain's broader goals to cut carbon emissions by 30%, quadruple mangrove and shade trees by 2035, and achieve carbon neutrality by 2060.
Moreover, the undersecretary underscored the importance of collaborations between government entities, the private sector, and civil society in supporting afforestation efforts and promoting environmental awareness.