The CEO of Dubai Airports has underlined the transport hub’s commitment to helping to eradicate the illegal trade in wildlife after signing a declaration at a special event with Prince William, The Duke of Cambridge and founder of The Royal Foundation’s United for Wildlife.
Paul Griffiths spoke after becoming the latest signatory of The Buckingham Palace Declaration, in the presence of Prince William and Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, chairman of Dubai Airports, making the organisation part of United for Wildlife’s Transport Taskforce.
“Wildlife trafficking is a global problem that is among the world’s five most lucrative crimes,” said Griffiths. “As the operator of the busiest international airport in the world, Dubai Airports shares in the global responsibility to help stop the trade of illegal wildlife.”
“The Duke of Cambridge has long been a champion of the global fight to end the trade of illegal wildlife. With the signing of The Buckingham Palace Declaration, Dubai Airports pledges to join Prince William’s United for Wildlife Transport Taskforce that brings together conservation organisations, governments and global corporations in a collective effort to tackle this issue.”
He added: “Dubai is a strategic trade hub connecting all corners of the world. With Dubai Airports, DP World and Dubai Customs all joining this taskforce, we have the opportunity to play a significant role in the eradication of the illegal wildlife trade.”
Griffiths said Dubai Airports adopting a zero tolerance policy regarding illegal wildlife trade.
“We thank Prince William for his leadership in bringing together partners from all segments of society to help protect endangered species and end the trade of protected wildlife,” he added.
Prince William began an official trip to the UAE on Thursday, the UK royal’s first official trip to the country.
During his visit, Prince William visited Expo 2020 Dubai and met with Dubai Crown Prince and chairman of Dubai Executive Council Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed Al Maktoum.
Prince William also visited Jebel Ali Port, which is owned by DP World.
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