UAE delegation discussed sustainability with UiT
A high ranking delegation from the United Arab Emirates came to UiT to discuss pressing sustainability matters. – We’re here to listen to leading experts, says the head of delegation.
– It has been brilliant to be here in Tromsø for two days and we look forward for further exchanges and collaborations, says H.E. Abdulla Balala, Assistant Minister of Foreign Affairs for Energy and Sustainability.
The delegation, which consisted of four senior officials from the United Arab Emirates, including the Assistant Minister of Foreign Affairs for Energy and Sustainability, was accompanied by Olav Myklebust, the Norwegian ambassador in Abu Dhabi.
Algae, carbon and space debris on the agenda
– We’re here to listen to leading experts and exchange views on pressing sustainability matters, says H. E. Balala.
Amongst a wide range of topics, including AI applications in climate and sustainability research, they were introduced to three important UiT projects:
- The transformative Finnfjordbotn Algea Project, by Professor Hans Christian Bernstein
- Threats and opportunities from space debris, by Professor Pål Gunnar Ellingsen
- The pioneering iC3 Centre for Ice, Cryosphere and Climate, by Professor John-Sigurd M. Svensen
– We are here primarily because of the climate issues. We hosted the COP28 last year, that witnessed the historic consensus, and are seeking solutions to the world's climate challenges. UiT has introduced us to many highly skilled experts, who inspired further discussions and areas for collaboration, His Excellency continued.
Two days in Tromsø
The guests from the United Arab Emirates arrived in Tromsø yesterday and has, among other things, visited key sustainability entities such as the High North Research Center for Climate and the Environment.
The delegation from the United Arab Emirates consisted of:
- E. Abdulla Balala, Assistant Minister of Foreign Affairs for Energy and Sustainability.
- E. Fatma Almazrouei, UAE Ambassador to the Kingdom of Norway
- Sumaya AlOraifi, Director of Chairman’s Office, International Affairs Office at the Presidential Court
- Wassim Said, Chairman’s Advisor, International Affairs Office at the Presidential Court
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