Zimbabwe Seeks to Strengthen Environmental Partnerships with Iran: Unlocking Opportunities for Sustainable Collaboration

TEHRAN – Evelyn Ndlovu, Zimbabwe’s Minister of Environment, recently met with Ahmad-Reza Lahijanzadeh, Iran’s Deputy for Marine and Wetlands. This meeting took place during the 15th Conference of the Parties (COP15) in Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe.

Ndlovu, who also serves as the COP15 President, stressed the importance of collaborating on wildlife conservation and water management. She emphasized the need to share knowledge, particularly to help preserve the Asiatic cheetah.

Lahijanzadeh expressed support for Ndlovu’s proposals and shared insights about Iran’s environmental policies. They agreed to draft a memorandum of understanding (MOU), marking a significant step in their co-operative efforts.

About COP15

COP15, themed “Protecting Wetlands for Our Common Future,” aims to establish a new strategic plan for wetland conservation from 2025 to 2034. The Ramsar Convention, which focuses on wetland preservation, was initiated in 1971 in Iran and has drawn participation from over 170 countries, including Saudi Arabia as the 173rd party.

On the opening day of COP15, three Iranian cities received special accreditation for their efforts in wetland management. This recognition highlights the importance of local initiatives in global environmental efforts.

The Role of Environmental Diplomacy

Environmental issues often cross borders, making diplomacy crucial. Countries face shared challenges like water scarcity, pollution, and climate change. Effective environmental diplomacy can help resolve conflicts over these issues by fostering collaboration and sharing responsibilities.

For instance, sand and dust storms affect several countries in West Asia. Nations like Saudi Arabia, Iraq, and Iran often experience adverse effects from these storms, demonstrating the need for cooperative solutions.

A pressing example is the quest to safeguard water rights in the Aras and Hirmand rivers. Policies aimed at resolving such disputes can mitigate environmental impacts and support sustainable development goals.

Conclusion

Collaborative efforts between Zimbabwe and Iran at COP15 could pave the way for stronger environmental policies. By working together, nations can tackle challenges like climate change more effectively and protect their shared resources.

For more insights into wetlands conservation and environmental diplomacy, visit the Ramsar Convention website.

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