Paving for GEF9- Ideas and New Opportunities

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12/10/2025
15:00 - 16:00
IUCN Arabia , Onsite
Session with interpretation

Why attend

Gain first-hand insights into how IUCN ROWA and national GEF Operational Focal Points are preparing for GEF-9 programming. This session offers a unique opportunity to connect with policy leaders, explore funding priorities, and position stakeholders for impactful project design and partnerships.

Session Description

This session focuses on strategic engagement with National GEF Operational Focal Points (OFPs) for GEF-9 programming, positioning IUCN ROWA as a trusted partner in supporting countries to address environmental and climate priorities. Participants will learn how early collaboration with OFPs can unlock new opportunities, align regional priorities, and foster innovative projects that contribute to biodiversity conservation, climate resilience, and sustainable livelihoods. Through contributions from high-level representatives Dr. Hany El Shaer (IUCN ROWA Regional Director), GEF Division Director of Strategy and Operations, and National UNFCCC/CBD/CCD focal points from the region will highlight both opportunities and challenges in shaping impactful proposals. By leveraging the IUCN World Conservation Congress platform, this interactive dialogue aims to catalyze partnerships that ensure GEF-9 investments deliver measurable outcomes for people and nature.
Organised by
West Asia Region
Partners
West Asia Region logo
West Asia Region
Headquarters
National GEF Operational Focal Points (OFPs) from participating countries
Relevant Ministries (Environment, Climate, or Finance) – depending on which focal points attend

Speaker

Speaker Bilal QTESHAT

Director of Nature Protection Directorate, Ministry of Environment of Jordan

Speaker Sawsan BOU FAKHREDDINE

Director General, Association for Forests, Development and Conservation

Speaker JOSEPH PIERRE CLAUDE GASCON

DIRECTOR, Global Environment Facility

Speaker Hany EL SHAER

Regional Director - West Asia, IUCN ROWA

Moderator

Speaker Hui REN

GEF and GCF Task Manager, IUCN