Riyadh: HE Undersecretary of the Ministry of Environment and Climate Change, Abdulaziz bin Ahmed bin Abdullah Al Mahmoud, emphasized the threat posed by desertification to natural resources, food security, and life sustainability, advocating for united efforts by governments and international organizations for innovative solutions. He shared Qatar's vision in a public session at the COP16 conference of the United Nations Convention to Combat Desertification (UNCCD). According to Qatar News Agency, His Excellency detailed Qatar's plans, which include increasing afforestation efforts and utilizing local plants to enhance soil fertility while reducing erosion. The strategy incorporates sustainable agricultural technology to optimize water resource use and productivity, and emphasizes the role of environmental policies in regulating land use and community involvement in combating desertification. His Excellency noted Qatar's commitment to the UNCCD through a national strategic plan addressing desertification ch allenges and promoting environmental sustainability. This plan is part of the third National Development Strategy 2024-2030, which aligns with the Qatar National Vision 2030. It includes programs and initiatives aimed at conserving natural resources and combating desertification. The State of Qatar is currently updating its National Strategy to Combat Desertification with integrated policies based on best global practices. The strategy focuses on conserving natural resources, improving land management, and enhancing community resilience against desertification and drought challenges. Qatar's adoption of the Rio Conventions serves as a framework for its national efforts to protect ecosystems, promote sustainable land management, develop a green economy, and safeguard resources for future generations. His Excellency underscored the importance of cooperation to restore degraded lands and pursue a comprehensive international approach to drought issues, presenting the conference as an opportunity for enhanced re gional and international collaboration for innovative solutions.