Jeddah hosts key meeting to shape the future of marine ecosystems

The 38th meeting of the International Coral Reef Initiative (ICRI) is set to take place in Jeddah from September 9 to 13, bringing together experts, researchers and decision-makers in marine environmental protection. The event aims to share knowledge, address challenges and explore future trends in coral reef conservation, the Saudi Press Agency reported on Saturday.

The ICRI, comprising 45 countries representing 75 percent of the world’s coral reefs, provides a global platform to protect marine ecosystems. Key goals of the meeting include improving coral reef conservation methods against threats like climate change, pollution, and unsustainable fishing while fostering collaboration between governments, NGOs and private companies.

The event will also focus on balancing economic development with environmental sustainability by organizing blue economy activities and empowering human capacities through training and knowledge exchange. Another focus will be raising societal awareness about the importance of coral reefs for biodiversity and the blue economy.

Khaled bin Mohammad Asfahani, CEO of the General Organization for Conservation of Coral Reefs and Turtles in the Red Sea, expressed gratitude for Saudi leadership’s role in protecting coral reefs and emphasized the organization’s global recognition for its regulatory tools. Asfahani highlighted the Kingdom’s commitment to sustainable development, aligning with Vision 2030’s goals of fostering international cooperation and advancing marine conservation research.