UNDP inks collaboration deal for Sustainability Forum Middle East

CONSUMER NEWS

The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and FinMark Communications, the founder and organiser of Sustainability Forum Middle East, have sealed an agreement to boost collaboration and partnership for the fourth edition of the event to be held in the Kingdom of Bahrain. 

The MoU was signed to enhance collaboration and partnership for the upcoming fourth edition of Sustainability Forum Middle East, which kicks off its 2026 programming from January 27-28 in the presence of Dr. Mohamed bin Mubarak Bin Daina, Minister of Oil and Environment, Special Envoy for Climate Affairs, and with the support of Bahrain’s Supreme Council for Environment. 

The Forum will attract over 400 senior regional business leaders, policymakers, and sustainability experts to its annual Forum and features a series of sustainability and climate-focused roundtables in Bahrain and other GCC countries during the year.

Under the deal, UNDP and FinMark will jointly develop initiatives in the lead-up to and throughout 2026, including collaborative efforts under the Forum, which continues to serve as a key regional platform for dialogue and partnership on climate resilience, innovation, and inclusive growth.

The agreement establishes a framework for co-operation to promote joint advocacy, knowledge exchange, and public awareness around sustainable development and the green transition. 

It also reinforces UNDP’s commitment to supporting Bahrain’s Vision 2030 and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) through multi-stakeholder partnerships.

Asmaa Shalabi, UNDP Resident Representative in Bahrain, said: "UNDP is proud to partner with Sustainability Forum Middle East, a platform that shares our mission to turn climate ambition into action. We commend Bahrain’s commitment to advancing sustainability and its support for private sector initiatives focused on accelerating decarbonisation, building resilience, and promoting inclusive economic growth"

Laila Danesh, Managing Director of FinMark Communications, and Head of SFME’s Advisory Committee, said: "We are delighted to welcome UNDP as a Strategic Partner for our 2026 edition. UNDP’s leadership in supporting climate action and sustainable development across the Mena region and globally will add invaluable perspective to our discussions."

"Their support strengthens our mission to advance collaboration and equip public and private stakeholders with the tools and partnerships needed to drive impactful climate action in Bahrain, the Gulf, and beyond," she added. 

The MoU underscores both parties shared commitment to advancing sustainability cooperation through advocacy, capacity development, and partnership-driven initiatives throughout 2026 and beyond. 

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