During the Antalya Diplomacy Forum (ADF) 2026, H.E. Zehra Zümrüt SELÇUK met with H.E. Andrea Meza Murillo, Deputy Executive Secretary of the United Nations Convention to Combat Desertification and former Minister of Environment and Energy.

The discussions centered on enhancing cooperation in preparation for the upcoming COP31 to be hosted in Antalya, with a particular focus on advancing joint efforts in addressing land degradation, desertification, and sustainable land management. Both sides underscored the urgency of coordinated, evidence-based responses to environmental challenges affecting many countries across the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation.

During the meeting, H.E. SELÇUK highlighted the growing challenge of water security, noting that, according to the OIC Water Report 2025 prepared by SESRIC, 16 OIC countries are currently experiencing “critical” levels of water stress. This finding reinforced the importance of strengthening data systems, policy coordination, and regional cooperation to address water scarcity and its socio-economic implications.

She further stressed SESRIC’s ongoing work in producing analytical reports and supporting member countries through data-driven policy tools. She emphasized that water security and land degradation are deeply interconnected challenges that require integrated policy frameworks and strong monitoring mechanisms. In this context, she noted that SESRIC stands ready to contribute to preparatory processes for COP31 by providing data, research, and technical expertise, particularly in the areas of impact assessment and SDG monitoring.

By referring to the importance of leveraging international platforms to promote collective action and to the upcoming events such as the 5th Istanbul International Water Forum, the 2026 UN Water Conference to be held in the UAE, and the 11th World Water Forum scheduled for 2027 in Saudi Arabia, H.E. SELÇUK stated that these platforms offer valuable opportunities to align efforts, share best practices, and strengthen partnerships among OIC countries and international stakeholders.

In response, H.E. MURILLO welcomed SESRIC’s proactive role and commended its contributions to data generation and policy analysis across OIC countries. She emphasized that UNCCD places strong importance on partnerships that integrate scientific data with policy implementation, particularly in addressing desertification and land degradation.

Highlighting the significance of COP31 as a milestone event, she noted that enhanced collaboration with SESRIC could support more effective regional engagement and ensure that the specific challenges faced by OIC countries are well-reflected in global discussions. H.E. MURILLO also expressed interest in working closely with SESRIC on joint initiatives that strengthen monitoring frameworks and promote sustainable land and water management practices.

The meeting concluded with both parties reaffirming their shared commitment to deepening institutional cooperation and advancing coordinated, data-driven approaches to environmental sustainability.