President Al Mandous: Bulgaria’s Antarctic Institute Leads Global Scientific Collaboration

International Collaboration in Climate Research

Varna, located on the Black Sea, has become a focal point for international collaboration in climate research. President of the World Meteorological Organization and Director General of the National Center of Meteorology (United Arab Emirates) Abdulla Al Mandous recently emphasized the importance of such partnerships during an event marking the departure of Bulgaria’s naval research vessel Sv. Sv. Kiril i Metodii (RSV 421). This collaboration highlights how countries can unite to address pressing global challenges.

UAE’s Continued Participation in Antarctic Expeditions

The United Arab Emirates has been actively involved in the Bulgarian Antarctic expeditions for the second consecutive year. In 2024, the UAE’s first mission on the Ice Continent took place as part of the 33rd Bulgarian Antarctic expedition. A seismologist and a meteorologist from the UAE deployed laboratory equipment for climate research. The partnership was further solidified in May 2025 when the Bulgarian Antarctic Institute signed a polar cooperation agreement with the National Center of Meteorology (UAE).

Al Mandous expressed his commitment to advancing climate research in one of the most sensitive regions of the planet. He highlighted that the UAE’s participation reflects a strong dedication to scientific exploration and understanding of climate dynamics.

Key Projects Under the UAE’s Polar Programme

Under the UAE’s polar programme, several key projects are underway. These include:

• Establishing field laboratories to support ongoing research.
• Operating a meteorological station to monitor climate and atmospheric dynamics.
• Implementing a sea level and wave monitoring system to study ice melt and provide early warning indicators for potential tsunami risks.

Additionally, UAE scientists are measuring methane emissions in various glacial layers and permafrost. This contributes significantly to the study of greenhouse gas behavior in polar conditions.

Enhancing Global Climate Prediction Models

The data collected through these initiatives aims to improve global climate prediction models and enhance international understanding of climate change impacts in polar regions. Al Mandous emphasized the importance of this data in shaping future climate policies and strategies.

Strengthening International Scientific Collaboration

The partnership with the Bulgarian Antarctic Institute serves as a strong model for international scientific collaboration. Last year’s successful installation and launch of the first Arab meteorological and seismological stations in Antarctica reflect mutual trust and a shared goal to advance climate research. This achievement underscores the potential of collaborative efforts in addressing global environmental issues.

Al Mandous noted that the partnership continues to grow through joint research, knowledge exchange, and capacity-building efforts. This collaboration stands as a positive example of how countries can work together to tackle global challenges effectively.

Preparing for COP30: Urgent Need for Climate Action

As the 30th United Nations Climate Conference (COP30) approaches, the World Meteorological Organization has released preliminary findings on the global climate. The full data and forecast for achieving the Paris Agreement objectives will be presented at the conference in Belem, Brazil.

Al Mandous highlighted the urgency of addressing the rapidly changing global climate. Rising temperatures, accelerated ice melt, rising sea levels, and an increasing frequency of extreme events are already affecting communities and ecosystems worldwide. Despite progress in global climate action, efforts still fall short of limiting warming in line with the Paris Agreement goals.

Recommendations for Policymakers and Societies

According to Al Mandous, policymakers must prioritize investment in climate observation systems, strengthen national meteorological and hydrological services, and expand early warning systems to protect all communities, especially the most vulnerable. Societies also play a critical role in supporting sustainable practices, promoting environmental awareness, and empowering youth to participate in climate innovation.

Collective responsibility and evidence-based decision-making remain the key to securing a safer and more resilient future for our planet. The ongoing collaboration between the UAE and Bulgaria exemplifies the power of international partnerships in driving meaningful climate action.