The agreement establishing the Regional Scientific Alliance for Climate Change was signed by Professor Elias Warrak, President of UOB and Professor Stavros Malas, President of CyI, during the University of Balamand’s Commencement Week in July 2026. UOB’s participation in the Alliance, coordinated by the Climate Diplomacy and Sustainable Peace Hub, will promote cooperation in climate science, artificial intelligence, Earth system sciences, water and energy sustainability, graduate education and joint European programmes.

The visit coincided with UOB’s Commencement Ceremony, during which more than 1,400 students graduated and H.E. Sigrid Kaag, Co-Chair of the United Nations Foundation Board of Directors and Member of the International Advisory Council for Gaza Peace Efforts, received an honorary doctorate for her contributions to diplomacy, peacebuilding and sustainable development.