MONTREAL, 16th May, 2025 (WAM) -- Mohammad Salem, UAE Alternate Representative to the International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO), has been elected Vice Chair of the ICAO Council's Climate and Environment Committee (CEC).

The committee, composed of representatives from ICAO Council Member States, plays a key role in shaping global aviation's environmental policies and strategic direction.

The election marks a new milestone in the UAE's growing leadership in international civil aviation and highlights the country's active contributions to advancing sustainability and climate action within the sector.

Saif Mohammed Al Suwaidi, Director-General of the UAE General Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA), commented, "This election reaffirms the UAE's deep commitment to environmental sustainability in aviation. Mohammad Salem's appointment reflects international recognition of the impactful role played by UAE professionals within ICAO. We remain dedicated to working closely with ICAO Member States and global partners to achieve shared environmental goals."

The appointment comes amid intensified efforts by ICAO to lead the global aviation sector toward a more sustainable future and the overarching goal of net-zero emissions.

The UAE has long been a proactive player in ICAO's environmental agenda-advocating for the adoption of cleaner energy sources, especially Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) and Lower Carbon Aviation Fuels (LCAF), launching innovative emissions reduction initiatives, and supporting global frameworks to combat climate change.

As Vice Chair of the CEC, Salem will play a key role in advancing ICAO's climate strategy, supporting the effective implementation of initiatives such as the Carbon Offsetting and Reduction Scheme for International Aviation (CORSIA), and helping to realise ICAO's historic goal of net-zero carbon emissions in aviation by 2050.