Geneva: The National Center for Meteorology (NCM) signed today in Geneva the International Initiative for Early Warning of Sand and Dust Storms Agreement, in cooperation with the World Meteorological Organization (WMO), during the Extraordinary World Meteorological Congress currently being held in Geneva.
According to Saudi Press Agency, the signing ceremony was attended by Chief Executive Officer of the National Center for Meteorology and the Kingdom's Permanent Representative to the WMO Dr. Ayman bin Salem Ghulam and WMO Secretary-General Professor Celeste Saulo. Dr. Ghulam explained that the agreement aims to strengthen global and regional capabilities in monitoring and forecasting sand and dust storms, as well as in developing early warning systems, particularly in countries and regions most affected by these phenomena. This initiative contributes to protecting lives and property and supporting sustainable development efforts.
The CEO added that the Kingdom's signing of this agreement builds upon the national efforts it has been leading in this field, most notably the establishment of the Regional Center for Sand and Dust Storms in Saudi Arabia, which serves as an officially recognized regional reference center by the WMO-the fourth of its kind globally. The center focuses on enhancing monitoring, research, and forecasting capabilities for sand and dust storms across the Middle East and North Africa, in addition to promoting international cooperation to mitigate their environmental, health, and economic impacts.
He further noted that this agreement represents a practical translation of the pioneering initiatives launched by the Kingdom during the 16th Conference of the Parties (COP16) to the United Nations Convention to Combat Desertification, hosted by Riyadh in 2024. It reflects the Kingdom's approach of turning international commitments into tangible achievements that contribute to advancing global climate action, protecting the environment, and supporting sustainable development.
The Extraordinary World Meteorological Congress gathers leading experts and decision-makers from around the world to strengthen international cooperation in the fields of meteorology, climate, and early warning systems.