Astana: Dr. Abdulla Al Mandous, President of the World Meteorological Organisation (WMO) and Director-General of the UAE National Centre of Meteorology, held a meeting with Amanat Umbetbayev, Board Member of Kazakhstan’s National Space Centre, during his visit to the Center’s headquarters in Astana.
According to Emirates News Agency, the visit is part of Dr. Al Mandous’s efforts to enhance international cooperation in meteorology and space, aiming to advance climate forecasting systems in the UAE and the broader region. The meeting focused on strengthening UAE-Kazakhstan cooperation in areas like space observation, satellite programs, atmospheric data analysis, and weather forecasting. Both sides highlighted the significance of sharing expertise and modern technologies to address extreme climate events and agreed to develop joint programs to expand observation networks supporting sustainable development in Central Asia and the region.
The Kazakh representatives provided an overview of the National Space Centre’s history, achievements in satellite launches, and future plans to enhance observation capabilities for scientific knowledge and sustainable growth. Dr. Al Mandous outlined the WMO’s space program, emphasizing satellites’ role in climate monitoring, weather forecasting, and early warning systems. He noted the UAE’s advanced expertise in satellite technologies and meteorology, positioning it as a strategic partner for future regional projects.
Dr. Al Mandous stressed that integrating space science and meteorology is crucial for strengthening global climate security. He affirmed that UAE-Kazakhstan cooperation will advance early warning initiatives and multi-hazard forecasting, contributing to protecting lives and achieving the Sustainable Development Goals. He also highlighted the UAE’s National Centre of Meteorology as a regional model in developing monitoring systems, expanding radar networks, and adopting AI algorithms to improve forecast accuracy.
He underscored the importance of a recent international workshop hosted by the NCM on AI in weather forecasting, which gathered experts from various sectors. He emphasized AI’s role in improving forecast models and supporting the UN’s ‘Early Warnings for All’ initiative, aiming to provide global access to early warning services by 2028. His visit coincided with participation in the Digital Bridge 2025 Forum in Astana, where he discussed AI’s transformative impact on meteorology and the urgent need for international cooperation to address climate challenges collectively.
On the forum’s sidelines, Dr. Al Mandous signed a Memorandum of Cooperation with Kazhydromet and Kazaeronavigatsia to exchange meteorological data and launch a cloud seeding pilot project in Kazakhstan, marking a significant step in strengthening global climate and water security. He affirmed the UAE’s leading role in implementing the ‘Early Warnings for All’ initiative through expertise sharing and expanding smart multi-hazard systems.
The meeting concluded with both parties affirming that cooperation between the WMO and Kazakhstan’s National Space Centre serves as a model of regional integration in facing climate challenges. It opens new horizons for developing advanced space and meteorological systems, strengthening climate security in line with UAE Vision 2031 to harness technology and innovation for a sustainable future.
