Ruler of Sharjah urges desert preservation

Sharjah: His Highness Dr Shaikh Sultan Bin Mohammad Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Sharjah, on Monday released a large number of wild animals into Al Dhaleema Natural Reserve to ensure biodiversity in the emirate.

The wild species released by Dr Shaikh Sultan included Arabian Oryx, deer, snakes, monkeys, wild hares, rodents and lizards as part of efforts to release the species into their natural habitats.

Meanwhile, Dr Shaikh Sultan attended the launch of the 13th edition of International conference on safeguarding biodiversity in the Arabian peninsula, organised by Environment and Protected Areas Authority (EPAA).

The conference continues till Thursday. Hana Saif Al Suwaidi, Head of EPAA, said the highlight of the workshop is the biodiversity, with a focus on reptiles as an important element in the food chain.

Hana said that Dr Shaikh Sultan's televised speech, in which he urged people of all ages to refrain from activities that damages the desert environment, is a form of encouragement for environmental activists.