IRENA’s Permanent Representation Grows Further

Diplomats from across the region present credentials to the Agency

Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates, 28 May 2014 – The International Renewable Energy Agency has further expanded its system of Permanent Representatives accredited to the Agency. In a succession of ceremonies taking place yesterday at the Agency’s headquarters in Abu Dhabi, three diplomatic representatives presented their credentials to IRENA Director-General, Adnan Z. Amin. They included H.E. Mr. Sefik Vural Altay, Ambassador of Turkey to the U.A.E.; H.E. Mr. Mowafak Mahdi Abboud, Ambassador of Iraq to the UAE; and H.E. Mr. Mohammad Reza Fayyaz, Ambassador of Iran to the UAE. The new Permanent Representatives join diplomats from twelve other countries who have already been accredited to the Agency.

“An increasing number of countries recognize the growing importance of renewable energy and IRENA welcomes the new Permanent Representatives. The system of Permanent Representation specific to IRENA is designed to facilitate collaboration, improve knowledge sharing, and, most importantly, move the global renewable energy agenda forward,” said Adnan Z. Amin, Director-General of IRENA. “This is why IRENA is encouraging its entire membership to appoint a Permanent Representative to the Agency.”

The expansion of Permanent Representation allows for increased dialogue and synergy between the Agency’s Members and its Secretariat on projects related to policy and technology development, as well as partnerships to support countries in their transition to a sustainable energy future.

IRENA’s system of Permanent Representatives was made possible by the United Arab Emirates’ ratification of the Headquarters Agreement with IRENA and its entry into force on 7 October 2013. Under the Agreement, all IRENA Members may appoint a Permanent Representative to the Agency and set up a Permanent Mission in the UAE.