KUWAIT, April 10 (KUNA) -- Kuwait is exerting tremendous efforts in preserving biodiversity and protecting endangered species of wild fauna and flora through the implementation of CITES agreement and the increase of public environmental awareness, Environment Public Authority announced Thursday.
This remark was made by EPA Deputy Director Raja Al-Busairi at an event co-organized with the Scientific Center to celebrate wildlife.
Al-Busairi addressed the assembly on behalf of the Minister of Oil and Minister of State for National Affairs and also Chairman of the Supreme Council for the Environment Dr. Ali Al-Omair.
She pointed out the importance of shedding light on crucial environmental issues to achieve what CITES agreement calls for. CITES is the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora, also known as the Washington Convention. It is a multilateral treaty to protect endangered plants and animals.
Misuse of resources and the distinction of many animals and plants species have resulted in a severe deterioration of wildlife, hence, it is important to hold events that celebrate these plants and animals and increase public awareness on the significance of reviving and protecting all forms of life, she added. She explained the environmental neglect has a great impact on many aspects of economy, environment and society.
She added that Kuwait has been exerting efforts to implement the CITES agreement, especially since the Gulf country is CITES'' regional coordinator in the Arab World since 2006 and a representative of Asia in CITES'' Permanent Committee for Regulating Trade in Endangered Species and Plants Committee since 2010.
She expressed hope that this event would generate more support among governmental bodies and civic communities to achieve CITES'' goals.
Kuwait Scientific Center and Kuwait Environment Protection Society presented a detailed story of a whale that was found washed up on the shores of Failaka Island in Kuwait and that died due to unknown causes.
A documentary on illegal trade of endangered species of plants and animals was also presented at the event. (end) zak.nfm