Dr. Yasmin Fouad, Egypt’s Minister of Environment, has received the prestigious Sheikh Zayed II Medal, Class One, by His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the United Arab Emirates, for her significant role in facilitating climate finance negotiations at COP28, chaired by the UAE. Dr. Fouad was one of only six ministers globally to receive this recognition.
In her statement, Dr. Fouad emphasized that this honor marks the culmination of the achievements of COP27, which Egypt hosted in Sharm El Sheikh in November 2022. COP27 laid the groundwork for the success of COP28 in Dubai, where crucial decisions were made, including the establishment of the Loss and Damage Fund. This fund aims to support developing countries while ensuring that they can achieve a just transition to sustainable development without compromising their growth paths.
Recognition of Egypt’s Leadership in Global Climate Action
The UAE’s award reflects Egypt’s growing leadership in global climate action, as well as its instrumental role in advancing international climate finance discussions. Dr. Fouad noted that the recognition not only highlights Egypt’s status in the Arab, African, and international communities but also celebrates the country’s ongoing efforts to drive real climate outcomes. These efforts include significant contributions to addressing the dangers of climate change through the facilitation of international cooperation.
Dr. Fouad also highlighted that the medal acknowledges Egypt’s success in facilitating climate finance negotiations on behalf of developing nations, alongside Canadian Environment Minister Steven Guilbeault. Their collective work led to key agreements, including the “UAE Consensus,” which aims to implement practical solutions for international cooperation and climate resilience.
Strengthening Egypt-UAE Collaboration in Climate Action
This recognition marks a milestone in the robust collaboration between Egypt and the UAE, reinforcing the countries’ commitment to ambitious and credible climate action. Dr. Fouad emphasized that this award is not just a personal honor but also a testament to the pioneering joint efforts between the two nations in advancing climate policies.
Dr. Fouad’s role in securing outcomes that support developing nations, particularly in ensuring access to climate finance, has been instrumental in positioning Egypt as a leader in the global fight against climate change. The UAE’s acknowledgment of her efforts highlights the importance of multilateral cooperation and the need for a united approach in tackling global climate challenges.
The Path Forward: Strengthening Global Climate Cooperation
Looking ahead, the recognition of Dr. Yasmin Fouad and the successes of COP27 and COP28 mark important steps toward securing a sustainable future. The UAE’s medal serves as a symbol of the growing influence of Egypt in global environmental policy, setting the stage for continued progress in international climate negotiations. Through strong collaboration with countries like the UAE and others, Egypt remains committed to driving impactful climate action and securing the necessary financial support for developing nations to achieve their climate goals.
