British News Agency

According to a statement by the Qatari Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Qatar took part in the 30th session of the ISA Council held in Kingston from July 21 to 25.

Qatar was represented by Omar Ali Al Ali, Deputy Secretary of the Standing Committee for the Law of the Sea Convention.

During the discussion on agenda item 8 regarding the ISA Secretary-General's annual report, Qatar reiterated its support for the Authority in fulfilling its duties under the 1982 UN Convention on the Law of the Sea and the 1994 Agreement relating to its Part XI.

Qatar emphasized the importance of balancing the mining regime developed by the Authority with sufficient protection of the marine environment to ensure sustainable development and preserve marine biodiversity for future generations through a rigorous scientific approach.

The Deputy Secretary welcomed the draft resolution proposing the designation of an International Deep Sea Day to be celebrated annually on November 1st.