Geneva: The State of Qatar, represented by the Ministry of Environment and Climate Change (MECC), participated in the sixth meeting of the Conference of the Parties (COP-6) to the Minamata Convention on Mercury, which was held in Geneva, Switzerland. The meeting gathered official delegations and experts from several countries to address the global challenge of mercury contamination and its impacts on human health and the environment.
According to Qatar News Agency, the conference focused on enhancing the Convention’s provisions to combat issues such as illicit mercury trafficking and reducing emissions from artisanal gold mining. Additionally, the conference emphasized enforcing the ban on skin-lightening products containing mercury compounds.
Further discussions at the meeting included measures for phasing out mercury dental fillings and promoting safer, environmentally friendly alternatives. Qatar’s participation highlighted its dedication to international environmental agreements and reinforced national efforts to protect the environment and public health. These actions align with Qatar National Vision 2030 and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).