Nairobi: Dr. Ali Abo Sena, CEO of the Egyptian Environmental Affairs Agency (EEAA), led the Egyptian delegation at the seventh session of the UN Environment Assembly (UNEA-7) in Nairobi, Kenya, from December 8 to 12, 2025. The session, themed 'Advancing Sustainable Solutions for a Resilient Planet,' sought to foster global environmental action and enhance multilateral cooperation. It was presided over by Dr. Abdullah bin Ali Al-Amri, President of the Environment Authority, with participation from representatives of member states, international organizations, environmental bodies, civil society, youth, and the private sector.
According to State Information Service Egypt, Dr. Abo Sena, in his opening remarks, expressed gratitude to Dr. Abdullah bin Ali Al-Amri and the Kenyan government for their organization and hospitality. He confirmed Egypt's backing for the statement by Mozambique on behalf of the African Group, underscoring the theme's emphasis on shifting from proposing solutions to their implementation. He stressed that success hinges on turning resolutions into actions that secure the planet's future.
Dr. Abo Sena articulated Egypt's anticipation for outcomes that mirror the collective aspirations of member states. He noted that real progress is evidenced by actions rather than words, urging the international community to exhibit the political will necessary for decisive action. He mentioned that discussions at the Assembly highlighted both the commitment of member states to environmental protection and the significant challenges, such as the gap between environmental goals and resources, particularly for developing nations.
He emphasized the importance of financing, technology transfer, and capacity building as crucial for implementation, describing them as essential rather than optional. Dr. Abo Sena argued that developing countries should achieve development and environmental protection simultaneously.
Highlighting Egypt's stance, Dr. Abo Sena stated that water, energy, and food security are interconnected pillars of sustainable development. He argued that water should be seen as a fundamental human right, advocating for improved water resilience as a core focus of the United Nations Environment Programme. He urged the Assembly to prioritize sustainable management of transboundary waters, aligning with international law and mutual benefit principles.
Concluding his remarks, Dr. Abo Sena reaffirmed Egypt's commitment to effective environmental commitments and collaboration with regional and international partners for sustainable resource management. He stressed that environmental protection is a collective responsibility requiring genuine political will and sincere international cooperation, emphasizing Egypt's dedication to a safer and more equitable environmental future.