Prime Minister, Mustafa Madbouly , held a meeting a meeting yesterday with Environment Minister, Yasmin Fouad, and key officials to discuss the progress made in declaring the Egyptian Great Reef as a reserve.
Madbouly reaffirmed Egypt’s unwavering commitment to safeguarding its natural resources and promoting them as prime tourist destinations. He underscored the nation’s dedication to environmental preservation and biodiversity.
Minister Fouad outlined the significant strides taken since President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi announced the Egyptian Great Reef as a protected area at COP27. The Cabinet subsequently approved the declaration of the reef environment in the Red Sea as a protected zone.
A dedicated higher committee was established to evaluate the requirements and procedures necessary for this declaration. Yasmine emphasized the multifaceted benefits of declaring the reef as a protected area, including economic and scientific advantages. This move aligns with Egypt’s domestic laws and international commitments to safeguarding the Red Sea’s unique biodiversity.
By taking this step, Egypt aims to enhance its global reputation as a marine sanctuary, attract international support, and secure grants for sustainable conservation efforts. Earlier, the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) in Egypt, in partnership with the Ministry of Environment, and the Global Fund for Coral Reefs (GFCR) signed the Egyptian Red Sea Initiative, funded by the United States Agency for International Development (USAID). This significant partnership aims to conserve and protect the Red Sea’s coral reefs, which are among the most resilient and biodiverse in the world
