The Science and Technology Sector of the Islamic World Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (ICESCO) held two separate meetings, the first with the Indonesian Commission for Man and the Biosphere, and the second with the UNESCO Office in Jakarta: Regional Office for Science for Asia and the Pacific, to discuss prospects for closer cooperation in the field of environmental protection and the establishment of natural reserves.

During the first meeting, which was held on December 23, 2022, in Bokor, Indonesia, the parties explored prospects for cooperation between ICESCO and the Indonesian Commission for Man and the Biosphere, with the aim of promoting the preservation of the environment and natural resources in the countries of the Islamic world, by benefiting from Indonesia’s successful experiences in preserving nature and the establishment of natural reserves, as well as capacity building in this field.

Dr. Foued El Ayni, Expert in the Science and Technology Sector, represented ICESCO at the meeting and gave an address on the Organization’s programmes and initiatives related to preserving the environment, adapting to climate changes and promoting green transformation, while Dr. Yohanes Purwanto, Chairman of the Indonesian Commission for Man and the Biosphere, and his accompanying delegation, emphasized their keenness to cooperate with ICESCO, especially in the field of capacity building in the environmental field.

During Dr. El Ayni’s second meeting with Mr. Fukuhara Ryuichi, Technical Advisor for Natural Sciences at the UNESCO Regional Office in Jakarta, the parties discussed cooperation in implementing activities in areas of common interest, especially those related to preserving biodiversity and ecosystems, and promoting environmental culture.