During the 31st Assembly of the International Seabed Authority (ISA) in Kingston, Jamaica, Qatar reiterated its support for both the ISA and the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS). Omar Ali Al Ali, representing Qatar as the Secretary of the Standing Committee of the Convention on the Law of the Sea, highlighted the necessity of balancing the sustainable use of marine resources with the protection of the marine environment.
Al Ali underscored the importance of fostering dialogue, ensuring transparency, and enhancing the role of credible scientific research alongside comprehensive environmental assessments. These measures, he argued, are vital for empowering the ISA to make well-informed decisions regarding the management of international seabed resources.
Qatar expressed its dedication to collaborating with fellow member states to uphold the ISA’s mandate. This commitment involves overseeing the responsible utilization of international seabed resources, ensuring that such activities are carried out in accordance with international law and ultimately benefit all of humanity.
The assembly provided a platform for Qatar to voice its perspective on the global stage, emphasizing its commitment to the sustainable and lawful management of the seabed’s resources. By advocating for a balanced approach that considers both economic and environmental factors, Qatar aims to contribute positively to the ongoing international efforts to regulate and protect the ocean’s vast resources.