SRI LANKA HOSTS THE 5TH FORUM OF MINISTERS AND ENVIRONMENT AUTHORITIES OF ASIA PACIFIC

The Ministerial Segment of the 5th Forum of Ministers and Environment Authorities of Asia Pacific ceremonially commenced today morning (05th October) at the Shangri-La Hotel, Colombo with the gracious presence of His Excellency the President Ranil Wickremesinghe as the chief guest. The event attended by ministers and dignitaries of environment authorities of 12 countries in person and many others virtually, marked a significant step towards global collaboration for environmental protection. This important event is jointly organized by the United Nations Environment Programme and the Ministry of Environment in collaboration with Tri-Services of Sri Lanka. The opening ceremony which was coloured with a number of cultural events attracted foreign participants.

Addressing the opening ceremony, His Excellency the President Ranil Wickremesinghe emphasized the critical importance of joint efforts in environmental conservation as all the nations are presently experiencing global warming at an alarming rate. President Ranil Wickremesinghe pointed out that individual countries' attempts to implement and follow environmental policies within their borders may fall short of achieving meaningful results. Instead, he stressed that collective action on a global scale is immensely instrumental in preserving the global environment.

At the invitation of the Ministry of Environment, the event was attended by Chief of Defence Staff (CDS) General Shavendra Silva RWP RSP VSV USP ndc psc MPhil who took the initiative to ensure all necessary formalities are in place. The proactive approach of the CDS was made in liaison with the Ministry of Environment and the Tri-Services, following the direction of the Presidential Secretariat and Mr Sagala Rathnayake, the National Security Advisor and the Chief of Staff to His Excellency the President.

As the discussions and deliberations of the forum begin, participants from around the world are poised to engage in constructive dialogue, share knowledge, and work collaboratively towards sustainable solutions. The decisions that would be made at this forum have the potential to impact not only individual nations but also the global environment positively. Further, the Forum also provides a platform for governments, intergovernmental organizations, and other stakeholders to discuss and prioritize environmental issues in the Asia Pacific region.

The opening ceremony was also attended by the Minister of Environment Hon Naseer Ahamed, Minister of Foreign Affairs Hon Ali Sabry, Secretary of the Ministry of Environment Dr Anil Jasinghe, diplomats, government officials, and a number of local and foreign dignitaries.