Tuesday, 02 January 2024 12:17 GMT

Afghanistan And Qatar Discuss Climate Cooperation As Drought And Water Crisis Deepen


(MENAFN- Khaama Press) Afghanistan and Qatar discussed expanding climate cooperation as worsening droughts and a growing water crisis threaten the country's environment and livelihoods.
Afghanistan's National Environmental Protection Agency (NEPA) chief Matiul Haq Khalis met with Qatari Ambassador Mardif Ali Al-Qahtani in Kabul to discuss expanding bilateral cooperation on climate and environmental issues, amid growing concerns over drought and water scarcity.

During the meeting, both sides stressed the importance of keeping environmental and social challenges free from political influence. Ambassador Al-Qahtani said discussions had taken place with representatives from Brazil and the UN mission in Afghanistan (UNAMA) during the COP-30 climate conference about Afghanistan's participation in future environmental initiatives.

Khalis noted that Afghanistan is a signatory to 16 international treaties and conventions on environmental protection. He reaffirmed the government's commitment to continuing ongoing environmental projects and strengthening technical cooperation with global partners.

Officials agreed that closer collaboration in environmental management, natural resource preservation, and climate adaptation is essential for Afghanistan's sustainable development. They emphasized that regional partnerships will play a critical role in mitigating the country's escalating ecological risks.

Afghanistan has faced worsening environmental challenges in recent years, including persistent droughts, soil erosion, and shrinking water resources. The combination of climate change, conflict, and deforestation has made the country one of the most climate-vulnerable in the world.

Kabul and other major cities are now experiencing an acute water crisis. Falling groundwater levels, pollution, and unplanned urban expansion have left many neighborhoods without access to safe drinking water, forcing families to depend on contaminated sources.

The prolonged droughts have also devastated agriculture - the backbone of Afghanistan's rural economy. Reduced rainfall and rising temperatures have caused repeated crop failures and livestock losses, fueling hunger, displacement, and economic instability.

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