World Meteorological Organization

The World Meteorological Organization (WMO), founded in 1873, is the United Nations specialized agency on the on the state and behaviour of the Earth's atmosphere, its interaction with the land and oceans, the weather and climate it produces and the resulting distribution of water resources. WMO unites 191 states and territories. Belarus has been a member of WMO since 1948.

WMO promotes free and unrestricted exchange of data and information, products and services on matters relating to the safety and security of society, economic well-being and environmental protection. It also contributes to the formulation of policies in these areas at the national and international levels.

The main areas of cooperation between Belarus and WMO are meteorological observations in accordance with internationally agreed standards, rapid exchange of information, monitoring of the climate in Belarus, improving the effectiveness of the practical application of meteorological information, hydrological monitoring and assessment of the quantity and quality of water resources.

In addition, intensive collaboration is underway to train highly qualified meteorological and hydrological personnel through the provision of training materials, organization and support of training events and scholarships. Belarusian specialists regularly take part in WMO symposia, conferences and seminars.

The Ministry of Natural Resources and Environmental Protection of the Republic of Belarus is the leading republican body for cooperation with WMO.