Egypt Achieves Significant Progress in Global Biodiversity Framework Goals

Photo : Egypt Media Office

Minister of Environment Yasmine Fouad addressed the high-level dialogue on the Global Biodiversity Framework (GBF) in Colombia, where she emphasized Egypt's significant progress toward achieving the goals outlined in the framework. Her speech, delivered on behalf of President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi, took place during the 16th Conference of the Parties to the UN Biodiversity Conference (COP16), themed "Peace with Nature." This important gathering convenes scientists, government officials, international organizations, civil society, and other stakeholders to discuss the pressing global challenges facing biodiversity conservation and sustainability.

In her remarks, Fouad reiterated Egypt's commitment to advancing updated national biodiversity plans, which focus on key areas such as ecosystem restoration, sustainable agricultural practices, and the expansion of protected areas. She underscored the country's multifaceted approach, which not only targets national goals but also incorporates local and regional initiatives.

One of the notable projects highlighted by Fouad involves the integration of nine indigenous tribes into activities within protected areas. This initiative aims to support local communities while also preserving their rich cultural heritage. Furthermore, she announced Egypt's initiative to declare the Great Fringing Reef in the Red Sea as a protected area, demonstrating the nation's dedication to marine conservation efforts.

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Fouad also pointed out that Egypt has made nature-based solutions (NBS) a fundamental element of its national biodiversity strategy. These solutions are designed to contribute to both climate change mitigation and sustainable development. Specific projects under this strategy include efforts in coastal regions, desert restoration initiatives, and the development of urban green spaces. The minister noted that NBS are vital for addressing the dual challenges of biodiversity loss and climate change.

On the international stage, Fouad called for collaborative efforts to restore faith in multilateral cooperation, particularly in light of the ongoing destruction of natural resources in Palestine. She stressed the need for robust financial support to meet the ambitious targets set by the Kunming-Montreal GBF, which aims to halt and reverse biodiversity loss by 2030 and restore ecosystems by 2050. She emphasized that the current funding levels are inadequate to achieve these critical objectives.

Overall, Minister Fouad’s address highlighted Egypt's proactive role in the global fight for biodiversity, demonstrating the nation’s commitment to implementing effective strategies and fostering international collaboration to ensure a sustainable future for both people and nature.