Istanbul: The National Center for Vegetation Cover Development and Combating Desertification (NCVC) from Saudi Arabia participated in the Country-Led Initiative on Forest Fire Preparedness and Innovative Technologies (CLI-FFPIT) held in Istanbul, Trkiye. The event, organized in collaboration with the United Nations Forum on Forests (UNFF) Secretariat, took place from October 20 to 22, 2025.
According to Saudi Press Agency, the two-year initiative is designed to enhance the exchange of expertise and knowledge, develop policies related to wildfire management, and promote sustainable forest management. It also encourages the use of modern technologies and advocates for joint action to tackle climate change challenges.
The meetings included a high-level dialogue and core thematic sessions that showcased international experiences and best practices. Participants also took part in a field visit to observe practical applications in forest and wildfire management. The Saudi delegation engaged in the opening session and conducted bilateral meetings with various countries and international organizations to strengthen partnerships and exchange scientific and technical expertise. They also explored innovative technologies for wildfire response and considered ways to implement them in Saudi Arabia.
Deputy CEO at NCVC, Dr. Mutlaq Abu Athnain, expressed gratitude to the Republic of Trkiye for hosting the initiative and emphasized Saudi Arabia's dedication to international cooperation in wildfire management. He highlighted Saudi Arabia's ongoing efforts to develop forests, restore degraded areas, and protect them from fires, stressing the importance of regional and international collaboration to safeguard forests and ensure the sustainability of natural resources.
NCVC's involvement underscores its commitment to supporting both national and international initiatives for forest protection and sustainability. It aims to build capacities and advance policies to address environmental risks, aligning with the objectives of Saudi Vision 2030 to protect natural resources and conserve vegetation cover.
NCVC continues to implement various programs and projects that promote sustainable vegetation in forest areas across Saudi Arabia. These efforts include protecting, conserving, and developing ecosystems, developing vegetation cover sites, rehabilitating degraded areas, restoring biodiversity, overseeing rangelands and national parks, detecting encroachments, and combating illegal woodcutting, all aimed at enhancing environmental sustainability and improving quality of life.