The Second Islamic Conference of Environment Ministers

The Second Islamic Conference of Environment Ministers drew up a twelve-point plan and decided to establish an environment institution and an Islamic media information network specialized in the environment. The conference approved the setting up of the Executive Islamic Environment Office and the Islamic Network for the Environment. It also approved a program to cope with natural disasters. The proposed environment institution would deal with political strategies and frame policies for the protection of environment. The office would also be responsible for following up on activities, initiatives and decisions approved by the Islamic Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (IESCO). During the conference, it was agreed that Prince Turki ibn Nasser, the chief of the Presidency of Meteorology and Environment, would head this institution. The delegates at the conference agreed on creating the Islamic Network for the Environment to exchange data and information among Islamic states and to act as an umbrella for all environmental organizations. The network would provide material support for exchanging information, sharing ideas and managing pilot projects. It would also help raise awareness about environmental issues. It was decided that in order to ensure the smooth functioning of this network, member countries and regional and national institutions should provide financial support.