UAE’s Environmental Stewardship Recognized At Cannes Film Festival 2019
His Excellency Dr Thani bin Ahmed Al Zeyoudi, UAE Minister of Climate Change and Environment, represented the country on a global stage today at the Cannes Film Festival 2019 for a different kind of accolade, albeit one still linked to the environment.
The UAE was named Country of Honor 2019, a distinction conferred by the Monaco Better World Forum (MBWF), a global platform of thought leaders and influencers dedicated to innovating and enhancing the standard approaches to humanitarian aid, business best practices, biodiversity preservation, and environmental conservation. The accolade recognizes the UAE’s outstanding commitment to climate action and the country’s environmental stewardship over the years.
At the awards gala hosted by MBWF as part of the Cannes Film Festival 2019, His Excellency Dr Al Zeyoudi also received the Colombe d’Or in recognition of his ongoing contribution to global environmental protection. His Serene Highness Prince Albert II of Monaco received this award in 2018.
Also attending the gala dinner and walking the red carpet with His Excellency Dr Al Zeyoudi were a host of celebrities and environmental advocates, including American actor Christopher Tucker.
Speaking on the honor bestowed upon the UAE and himself, His Excellency Dr Al Zeyoudi said: “Such prestigious international accolades validate the UAE’s sustained and incredible environmental and development journey.
“Our steadfast commitment to preserving the resources of the natural world and mitigating the causes of climate change at home and around the world through a suite of legislations and strategies as well as initiatives and projects on the ground have garnered the country international attention as a vocal environmental advocate.”
His Excellency Dr Al Zeyoudi hailed the role of the Monaco Better World Forum in leveraging the combined power of entertainment, brands, technology, and culture to raise awareness and mobilize millions of people around the world to act proactively for the environment.
Dr Lamya Fawwaz, Director of the Zayed Sustainability Prize, accompanied His Excellency Dr Al Zeyoudi on the visit to Cannes. Introducing the attendees to the prize, its objectives, and significant achievements to date, she invited them to visit the UAE and witness the upcoming award ceremony firsthand.
