H.E. Ms. Zulfiya Suleimenova, Vice Minister of Ecology, Geology and Natural Resources of the Republic of Kazakhstan, Vice-Chair of the Committee,
Excellencies,
Distinguished delegates,
It is with great pleasure that I deliver these closing remarks at the end of this very successful seventh session of the Committee on Environment and Development.
I congratulate you on the adoption of the Ministerial Declaration on “Protecting our planet through regional cooperation and solidarity in Asia and the Pacific,” which includes a regional action programme on air pollution.
The declaration is a sign of renewed commitment from countries to strengthen regional cooperation in building capacity for low-carbon transition, protecting our ecosystem and oceans, promoting inclusive, low-carbon and resilient cities, and enabling the public to have better access to information and participation.
The regional programme on air pollution provides a critical foundation for stronger science-based and policy-oriented cooperation to improve air quality management, including through improved air quality standards, open data sharing, exchange of best practices and capacity building.
I am pleased to note, also, that the session adopted the Terms of Reference for the Technical Expert Group, which will support the enhancement of regional exchange and the mobilization of technical expertise in support of ESCAP’s efforts to accelerate environmental and sustainable development action.
The secretariat will make its best efforts to support the implementation of the Declaration and the regional action programme on air pollution. This will involve mobilizing diverse stakeholders at national and regional levels as well as an effective partnership with relevant agencies.
I would like to acknowledge our current and new partners, who contributed to making this session a great success through the partnership events. I look forward to further joint action.
I bid you farewell and wish you a good evening and a safe return home.
Thank you.
