The elections, which took place on June 28, 2023, in Paris, France, saw the participation of 116 out of 150 UNESCO/IOC member countries who cast their votes.

Türkiye's re-election to the prestigious Executive Council, representing Group-I, grants them a two-year term (2023-2025).

The Intergovernmental Oceanographic Commission, established in 1960 as a specialized sub-organization of the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO), focuses on global ocean sciences and services.

In their press release, the Turkish Foreign Ministry emphasized that the UNESCO/IOC plays a crucial role in understanding and enhancing the management of oceans, coasts, and marine ecosystems through international collaboration.

Türkiye's re-election to the Executive Council, comprising 40 members, is seen as a testament to the country's active contributions and strong standing in the global maritime domain.

The Ministry reiterated Türkiye's commitment to supporting the UNESCO/IOC's objectives, which include promoting healthy and sustainable ocean ecosystem services, combating climate change, developing early warning systems for sea and ocean-related hazards, and advancing global knowledge in the field of ocean sciences.

As a re-elected member of the Executive Council, Türkiye will continue its efforts to foster international cooperation and work towards the achievement of these targets, contributing to the better understanding and management of our oceans for the benefit of all nations.

The re-election of Türkiye to the UNESCO/IOC Executive Council underscores the country's dedication to the preservation and sustainable development of precious marine resources, highlighting its active role on the global stage in addressing critical ocean-related challenges. (ILKHA)