Princess Lalla Hasnaa Attends IUCN World Conservation Congress in Abu Dhabi as Guest of Honor

Rabat, The Gulf Observer: Princess Lalla Hasnaa, President of the Mohammed VI Foundation for Environmental Protection, attended the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) World Conservation Congress on Thursday at the Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre as a distinguished guest of honor.

Upon her arrival, Princess Lalla Hasnaa was warmly received by Sara Awad Issa Musallam, UAE Minister of State for Early Childhood Education, ahead of the congress’s opening session.

In her keynote address, the princess reaffirmed Morocco’s unwavering commitment to environmental protection under the leadership of King Mohammed VI. She noted that the work of the Mohammed VI Foundation for Environmental Protection embodies this royal vision through concrete, measurable initiatives aimed at preserving biodiversity and promoting sustainable development.

“Our mission is ambitious: to integrate education for sustainable development and the protection of natural ecosystems into public policy, business practices, and civic life,” she said, emphasizing that citizen engagement is essential for the success of environmental initiatives.

Princess Lalla Hasnaa highlighted flagship programs such as Eco-Schools and Young Reporters for the Environment, which instill in children and youth a deep understanding that safeguarding biodiversity is vital to their future. She also pointed to major national initiatives including the B7ar Bla Plastic campaign—launched in 2019 to reduce ocean plastic pollution—as well as restoration and preservation efforts at the Marrakech Palm Grove and RAMSAR sites in Marchica, Oued Eddahab, and Dakhla.

The princess further underscored the role of sport and technology in advancing environmental awareness. “Sport speaks a universal language. It inspires collective values and can mobilize communities, particularly youth, for environmental action,” she remarked.

She also highlighted the potential of artificial intelligence to deepen understanding of ecosystems, anticipate risks, and design innovative solutions, while stressing that the ethical and inclusive use of such technologies rests with the younger generation.

Addressing youth, particularly across Africa, Princess Lalla Hasnaa said, “You are not only the leaders of the future but are already shaping the present. With your energy and commitment, we can build a future where humanity and nature thrive together.” She concluded by identifying four key pillars for realizing Morocco’s environmental vision: education, mobilization, innovation, and youth engagement.

The opening ceremony, chaired by Sheikh Khaled Bin Mohamed Bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi, also featured addresses by Surangel Whipps Junior, President of Palau; Amna Al Dhahak Al Shamsi, UAE Minister of Climate Change and Environment; and Razan Al Mubarak, President of the IUCN.

Following the ceremony, Princess Lalla Hasnaa met with renowned oceanographer Dr. Sylvia Earle, President of the NGO Mission Blue, and toured the exhibition pavilions of the UAE, the IUCN, and African nations.

The IUCN World Conservation Congress convenes heads of state, ministers, leaders of international organizations, and experts from around the globe to strengthen cooperation on nature conservation, climate action, and sustainable development.