Riyadh: Minister of Environment, Dr. Muawieh Radaideh, participated in the 16th Conference of the Parties (COP16) of the United Nations Convention to Combat Desertification (UNCCD), held in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. Dr. Radaideh was involved in discussions focusing on international cooperation to combat desertification and promote climate resilience. According to Jordan News Agency, Radaideh underscored the importance of a proposed special protocol for drought under the UNCCD framework. He emphasized that such a protocol could strengthen global collaboration in drought reduction initiatives, facilitate financing mechanisms, and support capacity-building efforts. The minister highlighted Jordan's proactive stance in developing policies and strategies to manage drought impacts and adapt to climate change over recent years. On the sidelines of the conference, Dr. Radaideh engaged with several international counterparts. These included UK Climate Minister Kerry McCarthy, UAE Minister of Environment and Climate Dr. Amna bint Abdullah Al Dahak, Executive Secretary of Ramsar Convention on Wetlands Dr. Musonda Mumba, Executive Secretary of the Convention on Biological Diversity Dr. Astrid Schumacher, and UNEP Regional Director Sami Dimassi. The discussions centered on collaborative efforts and securing support for environmental and climate projects and initiatives.