Damascus - Semiramis HotelSyria, represented by the Syrian Federation of Chambers of Industry, participated in a consultative meeting dedicated to reviewing the country's commitments within the framework of the international Montreal Protocol. The meeting was held upon an invitation from the Ministry of Local Administration and Environment, in cooperation with the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP).The Federation was represented at this meeting by Mr. Hassan Daboul, Treasurer of the Syrian Federation of Chambers of Industry, and Mr. Khaldoun Dado, Director of the Federation.The meeting was opened by Dr. Yousef Sharaf, Assistant Minister of Local Administration and Environment, who emphasized that the gathering aims to enhance effective participation among all national stakeholders involved in the Montreal Protocol projects. He explained that the ultimate goal is the phase-out of ozone-depleting substances, ensuring smooth implementation and achieving full compliance of the Syrian Arab Republic with the provisions of the convention. He also pointed out the paramount importance of protecting the ozone layer as a natural shield for life on Earth and the global environment.For his part, Mr. Khaled Klaly, the Regional Coordinator of the Montreal Protocol for West Asia, gave a presentation reviewing the journey of the protocol since its official launch in 1987 with the participation of 198 countries. Klaly noted the international community's success in phasing out 99% of ozone-depleting substances up to the year 2010, reflecting a major global commitment. He also pointed to the "Kigali Amendment" approved in 2016, which aims to phase out the remaining harmful substances.During the discussions, Mr. Hassan Daboul delivered an intervention calling on the governing authorities of the protocol to organize intensive awareness campaigns and provide continuous technical support to industrialists to keep them informed of the latest updates and standards required for compliance. He also stressed the importance of providing tax incentives and financial support to facilitate this transition, explaining that modifying industrial practices and adhering to international standards requires continuous investment and development costs.The meeting concluded with the announcement of the upcoming formation of a National Committee for the Montreal Protocol. This committee will include all relevant authorities and institutions to undertake the task of supporting and implementing national plans aimed at compliance and achieving the desired environmental goals
14/6/2026
