Saudi Arabia Receives CMS Champion Plus Award for Migratory Species Conservation in Southwest Asia

The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, represented by the National Center for Wildlife (NCW), received the "Champion Plus" certificate under the Migratory Species Champion Programme of the Convention on Migratory Species (CMS) on the sidelines of CMS COP15, held in Campo Grande, Brazil, from March 23 to 29.
 The recognition was presented during the "Migratory Species Champion Night" in appreciation of the Kingdom's leading role in addressing the illegal hunting, taking, and trade of migratory birds in Southwest Asia for 2026–2028, extending its previous recognition at CMS COP14 in Samarkand, Uzbekistan, in 2024.
 The Kingdom was one of only nine countries to receive this recognition out of 132 member states plus the European Union, reflecting its advanced standing in protecting migratory wildlife.
 NCW CEO Dr. Mohammad Qurban said: "We value this recognition, which reflects the magnitude of the Kingdom's efforts to protect wildlife and preserve biodiversity at both regional and international levels."
 The Kingdom has reintroduced around 10,000 wildlife animals through 21 breeding and reintroduction programs, restoring ecological balance and enhancing habitat resilience, while continuing to support the CMS task force in Southwest Asia through coordination and knowledge exchange.