Nairobi: A Jordanian delegation, headed by Secretary-General of the Ministry of Environment Dr. Omar Arabiyat, participated in preparatory meetings of heads of delegation held in Nairobi from June 29 to July 3 as part of the Intergovernmental Negotiating Committee (INC) process to develop a legally binding international instrument to end plastic pollution.
According to Jordan News Agency, the delegation also included Jordan's Ambassador to Kenya and Permanent Representative to the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP), Rolan Samara. During the meetings, the Jordanian delegation engaged in negotiations and consultations on key issues such as national action plans to address plastic pollution, plastic waste management, sustainable plastic product design, and means of implementation including financing, capacity building, and technology transfer. Delegates also discussed the overall framework of the future international agreement and mechanisms for its implementation and monitoring.
Arabiyat emphasized the importance of considering countries' national circumstances and priorities when implementing the treaty's obligations. He highlighted the necessity of providing developing countries with adequate financial and technical support, along with capacity-building assistance, to ensure effective and equitable implementation of the agreement. He stated that the success of the treaty would hinge on establishing a financing mechanism offering sufficient, predictable, and sustainable support while acknowledging differences in national capacities and circumstances.
Arabiyat noted Jordan's support for a flexible financing approach that combines the use of the Global Environment Facility (GEF) and a dedicated multilateral fund. He argued that such a model would enhance coordination among funding sources and improve fair access to financial resources, particularly for developing countries. The head of the Jordanian delegation also highlighted Jordan's experience in integrated waste management and the implementation of the Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) system, stressing the importance of strengthening partnerships with the private sector and accelerating the transition toward a circular economy. This, he indicated, would help reduce plastic pollution and advance the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
Jordan's participation underscores its commitment to contributing constructively to the international negotiations aimed at reaching an ambitious and practical legally binding agreement to end plastic pollution, aligning with the Kingdom's national priorities and broader global efforts to protect the environment and promote sustainable development.