Ammon News - *Jordan and Participation in the Third United Nations Ocean Conference: Towards a Sustainable Global Environmental Partnership

In light of global climate challenges that increasingly threaten ecosystems as a whole, international conferences focused on oceans stand out as vital spaces for scientific and diplomatic cooperation. Within this context, the participation of His Majesty King Abdullah II in the Third United Nations Ocean Conference—scheduled to be held in Nice, France, on June 9, 2025—serves as a clear indication of Jordan’s commitment to international environmental action, despite the country not being a coastal state in the traditional geographic sense.

The Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan, despite its limited marine resources represented by the Gulf of Aqaba, has managed to establish a significant environmental presence on the international stage. The Gulf of Aqaba has become a unique model for coral reef resilience against the effects of climate change, drawing the attention of researchers and global scientific institutions. His Majesty the King has given this issue special importance through the launch of the International Center for the Aqaba Marine Reserve—an initiative that integrates scientific research, environmental protection, and sustainable economic development.

The Nice Conference holds exceptional importance, as it brings together decision-makers, environmental experts, and scientists working in the fields of oceanography and climate science. Jordan’s participation offers an opportunity to exchange experiences and showcase successful models in marine conservation, especially in the face of challenges affecting the Red Sea ecosystem, such as rising sea temperatures, marine pollution, and tourism pressure.

As a specialist in French affairs and a close observer of the Nice Conference, I believe that this participation reflects an official awareness of the importance of environmental diplomacy—a relatively recent concept that involves leveraging international relations in service of cross-border environmental issues.

As a graduate of one of France’s universities (University of Lyon 2), I can attest that Jordanian–French cooperation in the academic and scientific fields forms a fertile ground for developing joint projects in marine environmental studies. France is considered a leading country in ocean sciences, and this conference opens new prospects for Jordanian and French researchers to enhance cooperation in areas such as environmental monitoring, coastal sustainability, and water resource governance.

Based on the above, the following recommendations can be made:
1.Strengthening joint research between Jordanian and French universities in the fields of marine environment and climate.

2.Supporting academic programs focused on the blue economy in Jordan, and linking them to investment in the Gulf of Aqaba.

3.Encouraging the participation of students and researchers in global environmental conferences to broaden their knowledge and stimulate innovation in this vital field.

4.Enhancing partnerships with UN organizations and the European Union concerning the protection and development of marine resources.

Jordan’s participation in the United Nations Ocean Conference in Nice reflects a strategic dimension that goes beyond political symbolism. It expresses a comprehensive environmental vision that acknowledges the crucial role of oceans and water in sustaining human life. It is a call to continue investing in environmental knowledge and scientific diplomacy as part of Jordan’s responsibility toward future generations and the world.