Biography:

Dr. Omar El-Arini, a national of Egypt, has a B.Sc. degree from Ain Shams University (Egypt), an M.Sc. from the University of Missouri (USA), and Ph.D. from Imperial College of Science and Technology and Medicine (UK).

Dr. El-Arini is currently a senior advisor to his Government in the areas of the environment and the conservation of Egypt's national patrimony, and is advising the League of Arab States on the establishment of an Arab Environment Facility.

Dr. El-Arini held research positions in Egypt, Germany and the Netherlands. He also managed a large portfolio of research projects funded by the USA Government in Egypt. He has also held senior positions in the Government of Egypt, as well as teaching positions in Cairo University and the American University in Cairo.

Dr. El-Arini was the first Chief Officer of the Multilateral Fund for the Implementation of the Montreal Protocol. During his tenure, a near universal ratification of the Protocol was achieved. His integrity and perseverance facilitated the establishment of a funding mechanism, which is recognized today as the most successful environmental fund ever created. His work facilitated the elimination of over 181,563 tonnes of ozone depletion potential from consumption, and demonstrated that with the proper support, developing countries are willing, ready and able to be full partners in global environmental protection.

Dr. El-Arini leadership and dedication in creating an effective organizational structure contributed to the Montreal Protocols Success.

In recognition of his remarkable contribution to the work of the Multilateral Fund over an extended period since its inception, the Fund's Executive Committee marked his retirement by granting Dr. El-Arini the title of "Honorary Chief Officer".

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