Doha, November 22 (QNA) - The Ministry of Environment and Climate Change (MOECC), represented by the Wildlife Development Department, has emphasized the necessity of obtaining a CITES permit when acquiring any Qatari wildlife animals listed in the three appendices of the CITES Convention, in addition to the purchase or transfer invoice, whether the animal was acquired from within or outside the country.
In a statement issued today, the Ministry explained that this procedure is in accordance with Law No. (5) of 2006, concerning the regulation of trade in endangered wildlife species and their products. It noted that violating these instructions, whether by acquiring, selling, or purchasing without the necessary permits, will subject the perpetrator to legal accountability.
The Wildlife Development Department emphasized the importance of verifying the information contained in the CITES permit and ensuring its accuracy regarding the species intended for acquisition, including its scientific name and detailed data, to guarantee a legal and safe source for trading these species.
The department also warned that acquiring any wildlife species listed in the Convention's appendices without a CITES permit constitutes a legal violation for both the seller and the buyer. It urged the public to immediately report any establishment refusing to provide a copy of the CITES permit or unable to prove the species' origin to the Ministry of Environment and Climate Change via the hotline 16066.
The Wildlife Development Department affirmed that these measures are part of the State of Qatar's commitment to the international agreements and treaties it has ratified, and are aimed at preserving wildlife and preventing the illegal trade in endangered species.
The department concluded the statement expressing its appreciation for the public's cooperation in supporting national efforts to protect biodiversity and ensure the responsible and legal trade of wildlife species within the State of Qatar. (QNA)