Thursday, Nov 17, 2011
Gulf News
Abu Dhabi: The UAE has been elected as Chair of the Council of the International Renewable Energy Agency (Irena) by its 21 members.
Following the second meeting of the two-day Council in Abu Dhabi on Monday, the members also reviewed the work of the Agency in preparation for the upcoming second meeting of the assembly on January 14 and 15.
The UAE has also received approval on a proposition to create a trust fund to ensure the active participation of Least Developed Countries (LDCs) and Small Island Developing States (SIDS).
Progress
The Council, an organ mandated by the Statute of the Agency, is responsible for reviewing the agencys progress and approving its work programme and budget prior to submission and adoption by the General Assembly, which comprises of all 85 members and 149 signatories of the agency.
Outgoing Chair of the Council, Australia and vice-chair the Republic of Korea led the most recent deliberations.
In his capacity as President of the Assembly of Irena, Dr Sultan Ahmad Al Jaber said: I would like to thank the outgoing Chair of the Council, Australia for their great work. Their role as the first Chair of the first Council was one that required a great amount of dedication and know-how. As a UAE citizen I am honoured that the UAE has been elected to Chair the Council and view this as a testament to the great strides the country has taken in solidifying its role as an active player in the renewable energy sector.
He added: Equally important, however, is the establishment of a trust fund for countries who require support to actively engage with the Agency. With Irenas clear focus on developing countries, the decision to guarantee these members access to the meetings was of the utmost importance.
Support
In his introductory remarks, director-general of Irena, Adnan Amin, said: We are extremely grateful for the kind hospitality and support of the UAE since the establishment of Irena. Regarding the trust fund he added: this can be a compelling mechanism to enable equitable participation of developing countries in Irena thanks to the generosity of the UAE government.
Amin provided members with an overview of activities implemented since the agencys inaugural Assembly in April. Discussions revolved around operational, programmatic progress and the work programme and budget for 2012.
I would like to thank the outgoing Chair of the Council, Australia for their great work.
Staff Report
Gulf News 2011. All rights reserved.
