6th Plenary: National Statements (Continued) | UNEA-7

I call to order the sixth plenary meeting of the seventh session of Environment Assembly. Agenda item 9, high-level segment. Honorable ministers, excellencies, distinguished delegates, ladies and gentlemen, the Assembly will continue its consideration of agenda item 9, high-level segment, to hear national statements. I wish to remind speakers of the time limit of three minutes for individual statements and five minutes for those speaking on behalf of a group of States. Speakers with longer statements are encouraged to read a shorter version of their text and to submit the full length of their statements to the Secretariat for posting on the website. Delegations are also encouraged to send their written statements to the Secretariat to facilitate interpretation. To assist a speaker in managing their time, a timer is set in front of the speaker. In case of a speaker exceed their time limit by one minute, the microphone will be automatically deactivated. I apologize in advance if a speaker is cut off. This measure is being taken to ensure that all the speakers can deliver their statements in the limited time available for the national statements. I urge all delegates to deliver their statements within the allotted time and at a reasonable pace, so that interpretation in the other official United Nations language might be provided properly. May I remind delegations that the list of speakers is available online and will be updated live. I now give the floor to Her Excellency Marie-Maire Geremie, Minister of the Environment, Climate, Energy, and Natural Resources of Seychelles.

President of the Assembly, Excellencies, ladies and gentlemen, good morning. On behalf of the Government of Seychelles, I extend our gratitude to UNEP and the Government of Kenya for hosting UNEA under the theme, Advancing Sustainable Solutions for a Resilient Planet. This theme is timely, reminding us that global commitments must now translate into practical, tangible action. We must rethink how we live with nature and how we value the benefits it provides. This is particularly true for SIDS, where our economies, our resilience, and the well-being of our people depend directly on a healthy environment. For Seychelles, sustainability and sustainable development is not a choice. It is essential to keep our islands and our people safe. Seychelles continues to place environmental integrity at the center of national development. We are finalizing our third generation National Biodiversity Strategy and Action Plan, which is integrating resilience, circularity, and nature-based solutions to advance the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework. As a large ocean state dependent on our marine resources, Seychelles remain committed to delivering on our 30 by 30 targets. Earlier this year, we enacted our MSP into law, covering our entire EZ with 32% designated as protected area estate. This demonstrates strong leadership despite the high cost and limited technical capacity. for its full implementation. We continue to protect both our marine and terrestrial ecosystems. We have pioneered and championed innovative financing for ocean protection. With coral reefs amongst the world's most vulnerable ecosystems, we are scaling up restoration using new technologies and strengthening partnerships with the private sector and local communities. Our forest, rich in endemism, remains a priority, which we aim to safeguard. As an import-dependent nation, Seychelles is advancing waste management and the circular economy. With support from partners, we are modernizing solid waste systems, promoting resource efficiency, and encouraging greener growth. Yet, waste management remains one of our greatest challenges. This is why Seychelles remains particularly concerned and disappointed at the slow pace of negotiations on the legally binding instrument to end plastic pollution. The UN resolution was clear in that it highlighted the magnitude of this global waste problem, and in particular for us seeds, our coastal environment, and the urgent need to act. We cannot and should not compromise on our ambition. Although Seychelles is classified as a high-income country, our small size, limited land, unique ecosystems, and vulnerability to external shocks require equitable access to finance, technology, and capacity building that reflects our special circumstance. Dwindling financial support limits the sustainability of our efforts. Conservation without funds is simply conversations. Excellencies, UNIA remains a vital platform where nations large and small can shape the global environmental agenda and drive transformative action. Seychelles is ready to advancing sustainable solutions, build resilience through nature, and support environmental governance that leaves no one behind. However, we cannot do it alone. Together, we can secure a future where both people and nature thrive. Thank you.

Thank you, Excellency. I now give the floor to Her Excellency Rita Schwab-Szelah Suteu, Federal Vice Minister of the Environment, Nature, Conservation, Climate Protection and Nuclear Safety of Germany.

Excellencies, ladies and gentlemen, Germany aligns itself with the statement made by the EU. Let me highlight three points. First, United Nations Environment Assembly is an indispensable global platform for environmental solutions. Sometimes we struggle agreeing on common proposals, but the situation is urgent, as was highlighted in the recent GEO-7 report. Member states have therefore engaged in serious conversations and have agreed on a number of common solutions. Let us bring this famous Nairobi spirit also to the ongoing negotiations on an international plastic agreement. Second, what we are developing here benefits people and the planet. Environmental protection is also a question of social justice. We need to make sure everyone is on board. We have been discussing topics that are immediately relevant to people's everyday life: chemicals and waste, deep sea mining, wildfires, minerals and metals, crimes that affect the environment, youth participation. We also tackled an emergent topic and addressed the environmental aspects of artificial intelligence. Third, a strong UN Environment Programme is not a luxury, but a necessity. Germany, like the EU, believes that we need a UNEP able to deliver on the medium-term strategy. With the ongoing UN reform for more efficiency, we need to reinforce and not weaken environmental protection. I would like to thank you, Inger Andersen, for your hard work on this. Germany remains a reliable and committed partner for UNEP. Especially in this moment, it is important to step up our support for UNEP. We therefore decided to provide for 2025 additional funding of one and a half million US dollars to the Environmental Fund. Ladies and gentlemen, today marks the 10th anniversary of the Paris Agreement. This remains the compass for our action in environmental protection and climate action. I trust the Presidency's leadership to close this UNEA with a joint ministerial declaration that we can all adhere to. Now is the time for us to set course for the future, environmentally, economically, and socially. Germany is and will remain a reliable partner in this work. Thank you.

I thank Her Excellency, Vice Minister of Germany. I now give the floor to Her Excellency Giselle Fernández Ludlow, Permanent Representative of Mexico.

Thank.

You, Chair, distinguished colleagues. This UNO has been held at a complex moment, characterized by the increase in geopolitical tensions, limited financial resources, and a growing environmental deterioration. At the same time, the UN80 process is striving to revitalize multilateralism, reforming our methods of work, and trying to make our mandates more efficient. Within this context of deep transformations, Mexico is setting out a draft resolution which aims to consolidate UNEP as the center for environmental negotiations. It seems contradictory that while we strive to save the planet, environmental diplomacy contributes in disproportionate money to carbon emissions and has a limited mandate in order to tackle environmental issues. We need to expand our headquarters here in Gigiri and strive to achieve synergies. Mexico is in favor of aligning cross-cutting agendas and creating more coherent and effective environmental governance. It's a time to place environmentalism at the heart of our agenda and to strengthen UNEP as the head of UN in the Global South. Chair, we think it's essential to work in the following strategic areas. Water needs to be recognized as an essential cornerstone of sustainable development. It's essential that we tackle the hydrological cycle as a whole, promote ecosystem-based solutions, and the capacities of developing countries. Protecting the atmosphere and other resources requires more robust resources, which enable us to address cumulative impacts. and have substantive impact, always based on the best available science. We need to move forward towards artificial intelligence which is environmentally responsible, which makes use of its potential to contribute to climate action, which conserves biodiversity, and which makes our economies more efficient. We need to avoid new pressures on ecosystems which are already overused. We have to recognize the importance of critical minerals and avoid pollution. Sustainable management in minerals is essential to reduce ecological impacts and to have just value chains. Finally, Mexico is taking part in UNEA, convinced that we can take decisions to achieve a resilient planet, a sustainable economy, and societies which are fairer for future generations. Thank you very much.

I thank Her Excellency of Mexico. I now give the floor to His Excellency Ban Mon Inet, Under-Secretary of Ministry of Environment of Cambodia.

Excellency President, Excellencies, ladies and gentlemen, Cambodia highly appreciate the People's Republic of Kenya and UNEP for hosting UNEP 7 under the theme Advancing Sustainable Solutions for a Resilient Planet. Cambodia reaffirm its commitment to address the issue of climate change, biodiversity loss, land degradation, and pollution, which continue to threaten and determine global stability, economic security, and the well-being of our people and ecosystem. We emphasize the important coordinated, science-based, and inclusive approach, multilateralism, and shared responsibilities. Within our national policies, framework, mainly on the national strategy, climate change strategy, circular strategy on environment, and national determined contribution NDC 3.0. Cambodia has made a major progress to enhance our climate resilience, natural resource sustainability, circular economy, and environment governance. Within protected areas cover more than 40% of our national territory, Cambodia has set up its conservation efforts to restore degraded ecosystem and strengthening enforcement, combat wildlife trafficking, and lead degradation. Additionally, in line with our commitment, Under Paris Agreement, we recently launched a national carbon registry, enabling stakeholders to track and manage greenhouse gas reduction project and trade verified carbon credit. Cambodia is prioritizing the circular economy by improving solid waste management, inspiring nationwide public participation, strengthening action against plastic pollution and supporting ongoing negotiation of the global instrument to end plastic pollution. Excellency, ladies and gentlemen, as a climate vulnerable developing country, Cambodia emphasize the urgency of scaling up adaptation efforts, particular climate smart agriculture early warning system, and nature-based solution. For this initiative to succeed, timely, accessible climate finance and technology transfer are essential. Therefore, Cambodia expresses our strong support for UNES 7 resolution, and we expect to work with all stakeholder to ensure that UNES 7 deliver strong, practical, and transformative outcomes. Let us reinforce our collective action to safeguard our environment and secure a resilient planet for present and future generations. I thank you, President.

I thank His Excellency of Cambodia. I now give the floor to Her Excellency Gintiana Cerbu, Permanent Representative of Romania.

Thank you, Your Excellencies, ladies and gentlemen. We meet in this Assembly at a moment when the accelerating impact of climate change, biodiversity loss, and pollution are threatening planetary system that supports our societies. This conversion pressures underscores the need for more coherent, science-based, and inclusive approaches, in line with our shared commitment to advancing sustainable solutions for a resilient planet. Romania aligns itself with a statement delivered on behalf of the European Union and its member states, and reaffirms its commitment in strengthening multilateral cooperation and supporting effective responses that advance long-term sustainability and shared prosperity for all. Distinguished delegates, At national level, Romania is implementing integrated policies across climate action, biodiversity conservation, pollution reduction, and environmental governance, ensuring coherent and mutually reinforcing progress across these interconnected areas. In line with the commitments assumed recently in Brazil at COP30, Romania remains fully engaged in taking ambitious climate action. Achieving 1.5 Celsius degrees objective requires deep, rapid and sustained global emission reductions. And Romania continues to pursue the EU objective of climate neutrality of 2050. Meanwhile, Romania continues to strengthen mitigation efforts across key sectors to support this collective pathway. Romania is also achieving its transition to a circular economy. The national deposit return system for beverage containers, one of the largest in this kind in the world, is fully functional, delivering significant reduction in plastic pollution and increasing high quality recycling of metal and glass. The system demonstrates how transparent, well-designed cooperation between public authorities and economic operators can effectively respond to serious pollution concerns. Biodiversity conservation remains a key national priority. Romania is finalizing its national biodiversity strategy to ensure full alignment with a global biodiversity framework, including those concrete conservation and restoration measures. Through afforestation and ecological restoration projects financed under national recovery and resilience plan, targeting over 56,000 hectares of new forests and expanding green spaces, Romania is enhancing ecological resilience and improving soil health and water balance. It's also identifying and mapping strict protection and non-intervention areas in line with EU Biodiversity Strategy 2030 requirements. Our commitment to biodiversity extends equally to the marine environment. Romania welcomes the forthcoming entry into force of the BBNG agreement. By ratifying it, Romania reaffirms its support for a rules-based multilateral system and strengthened international cooperation to safeguard marine ecosystems. Pollution continues to pose a systemic threat to ecosystems, human health, and sustainable development. As a member of the High Ambition Coalition to End Plastic Pollution, Romania remains committed to securing.

Thank you, Her Excellency of Romania. I now give the floor to Mr. Nader Al-Tarawneh, Chair, the First of Jordan.

Thank you. Good morning, Your Excellencies, distinguished delegates. Allow me to begin by expressing my sincere appreciation to the Government of Kenya for hosting this important event and to the Sultanate of Oman and UNEP for their effort in organizing this meeting. Jordan's environmental challenges are deeply influenced by the location in the Eastern Mediterranean. a recognized climate hot spot, combined with limited natural resources and increasing demographic pressure. And yet, despite these constraints, Jordan continues to demonstrate its commitment to international environmental agreements and to contributing constructively to global negotiations under UNEA and MEAs. Nationally, Jordan has aligned its priorities with the global agenda through the economic modernization vision and its second executive program, which places green growth, resources efficiency, and climate resilience at the center of its national development. Our second nationally determined contribution commits to a 31% emission reduction by 2030. 26% of which depends on international support. But against all odds, Jordan has already achieved more than 75% of this target, reflecting strong national determination and the effectiveness of targeted policy reforms. In energy, renewable resources now constitute 15% of our total energy mix. and 27% of electricity generation. In mobility, 31% of passenger vehicles in Jordan are electric or hybrid, an impressive indicator of behavioral policy transformation. On biodiversity, our National Biodiversity Strategy and Action Plan is fully aligned with the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework. Excellencies, as the UNEA 7 urges the world to accelerate action, Jordan echoes the call for stronger, more equitable international cooperation. Ambition must be matched with scaled-up financing, accessible technologies, and capacity building, tailored to the needs of developing countries. No country should be expected to face the planetary crisis alone. UNEA 7 is a reminder that global environment and governance succeed only with all voices are heard and all nations benefits. Jordan stands ready to work with partners to advance UNEA's outcomes and contribute to more resilient, sustainable planet for all. Jordan message is clear, ambition is possible, even with limited resources. Progress is attainable when nations act collectively. We call for solidarity, stronger climate finance, and accelerated technology transfer to ensure no country is left behind. Thank you.

Thank you, Mr. Nader Al-Tarawneh of Jordan. I now give the floor to Mr. Hamed S.A. Abouwehbe, Minister Plenipotentiary of Libya.

Thank you, President, delegates, members of UNEA. Libya has the pleasure of taking part in the seventh session of the United Nations Environment Assembly, and expresses its appreciation to the efforts made by the Assembly and UNEP to strengthen international shared action to face up to environmental challenges, which are continuously growing. Libya reiterates its commitment to the goals of the Assembly and its contributions to implementing multilateral environmental agreements This begins with UNFCCC, the CBD, the UNCCD, and all those which protect environmental systems. My country recognizes that to face up to global challenges, we have to take action. We need coordinated international action, and assist countries to strengthen their capacities and to provide financial assistance. Libya, despite exceptional circumstances it is facing, is implementing its national plan, aiming to strengthen the sustainable use of natural resources and the reduction of pollution in all its forms, in particular along our coastlines, which face increasing pressures as a result of climate change. Within this context, Libya highlights the importance of strengthening international partnerships in order to protect the environment and to enable countries exposed to these hazards to make the most of all the programs of actions required. At present, we are meeting under theme of advancing sustainable solutions for resilient planet. Based on this, Libya insist upon the fact that to achieve this, we need collective political will. respect for environmental law. We also need to support countries facing issues in terms of financing, which prevents them from taking part and implementing their environmental obligations. To conclude, Libya welcomes the work conducted by UNEP to organize this seventh United Nations Environment Assembly. We will take concerted action in order to preserve our environment and to live in a healthy and fair environment. Thank you for your time.

I now give the floor to His Excellency Mohamed Osman Okasha, Ambassador-in-Charge d’Affairs of Sudan.

Thank you, Chair, in the presence of UNEA 7, Ladies and gentlemen, AGOS Assembly, Sudan has the honor to express its thanks to UNEP and all permanent representatives and members of all delegations for the work conducted in order to organize this important meeting. We also address our thanks to the host country for its warm welcome. The 7th Assembly is being held at a crucial moment, while we are facing increasing environmental pressures Climate change is increasingly an issue, and we are seeing a loss of biodiversity, as well as conflicts which are affecting our environment. The theme of this Assembly, "Advancing Sustainable Solutions for a Resilient Planet," invites us all to find pressing solutions while highlighting the need for partnerships in order to live in a healthy environment. Present for two years, Sudan has been facing a ferocious war launched by certain forces which have left behind considerable damage and devastation. This is among the greatest challenges we face. Because of this war, we have seen the systematic destruction of the environment. and widespread pollution of groundwater and other sources of water, as well as an accumulation of pollutants, including organic pollutants, as well as the destruction of a large amount of our forest coverage. It's impossible to access programs for adaptation and mitigation. At present, we are facing wide waves of displacements as well. All of these represent a grave danger to Sudan's capacity to meet its international obligations. We therefore require international assistance in order to address these challenges and redress them. Despite all this, Sudan remains committed to multilateral environmental agreements and will continue to pursue its efforts. We have adopted a National Biodiversity Action Plan for 2020-25 and 2030. We also have a national strategy and a project to strengthen our renewable energy projects and for wind energy. We're developing national plans linked to the environment as well. However, this goes beyond what our national capacities can achieve, therefore require international assistance. SAM believes that environmental protection within conflicts requires a strengthening of support mechanisms. Therefore, Sudan requests the activation of a mechanism to assist countries undergoing conflict in order to address the devastation caused by this conflict. UNEP, with the Sudanese government and international organizations, is currently looking at all the impacts of the war and conflict in Sudan. Despite all these efforts, we need additional assistance from international institutions in order to rebuild our country. We need to strengthen the capacities of developing countries in order to dispose of waste. We also require programs to redress damage, in particular in countries faced by or most vulnerable to climate change. We also need assistance in order to ensure scientific resilience.

I now give the floor to His Excellency Alisher Solimov, Advisor to the Minister of Ecology, Environmental Protection and Climate Change of Uzbekistan.

As-salamu alaykum. Good morning, Mr. President, Excellencies, esteemed delegates, ladies and gentlemen. On behalf of the Republic of Uzbekistan, I would like to extend my deep gratitude to the Republic of Kenya for warm hospitality and express appreciation to UNEP Secretariat for organizing UNEA7 at such high level. Dear colleagues, today more than 20% of the Central Asian region's land is degraded. Each minute, we are losing nine square meter of land. Can you imagine? In just the five days of June, about 65,000 square meters of land have degraded. Glaciers in Central Asia are shrinking. We have already lost 30% of their volume. I'm proud to state, under the leadership of the President of the Republic of Uzbekistan, His Excellency Shavkat Mirziyoyev, our course clearly set towards sustainable green transformation. In the year 2025, year of environmental protection and the green economy in Uzbekistan, the president signed a decree to further strengthen national environmental governance. National Committee on Ecology and Climate Change and State Ecological Police were created with expanded authority to combat environmental crimes. We are pushing ambitious and concrete goals, expanding renewable to 25,000 megawatts and increasing their share up to 54% within the next five years. Expanding forests to 6 million hectares, including afforestation of the Aral Sea region and the Yashil Macon program, aimed to increase the green areas to 30% by 2030. In our NDC 3, we target to reduce the emission per unit of GDP by 50% by 2035 compared to 2010 levels. Central Asian University of Environmental and Climate Change Studies, Green University in Tashkent, is becoming a hub for raising the next generation of environmental leaders. Within the university, we are hosting IUCN regional office for Central Asia, with whom we are closely working on nature conservation. Dear colleagues, last week, in the historic city of Samarkand, we welcomed over 3000 delegates from 180 countries on the occasion of the 20th meeting of the CITES Convention. With over 300 decisions adopted, 77 new species listed, CITES COP 20 demonstrated the fragility of wildlife and the need for sustainable use of the natural resources. As Uzbekistan holds CMS COP and CITES COP presidencies, we will focus on tangible and results-oriented actions. We aim to implement Samarkand Action Plan on Combating Wildlife Crime in Central Asia. For us, CITES COP20 slogan, bridging nature and people, means that we must recognize ecological connectivity at all levels of environmental policy. Esteemed delegates, using this opportunity, I would like to invite all of you to participate in the eighth GAF assembly in Samarkand next June. and to the Expo Central Asia 2026, matching point for providers, recipients of sustainable solutions supported by international financial institutions. I thank you for your attention. See you in Samarkand.

I thank His Excellency. I now give the floor to His Excellency Barly Babzadykov, Permanent Representative of Kazakhstan.

Distinguished Mr. President, Excellencies, distinguished delegates, at the outset, I would like to express our words of appreciation to the President of UNEP 7 and leadership of UNEP for a productive work and excellent organization of the assembly session. I also convey my congratulations to the government and people of Kenya on the Republic Day and wish peace, prosperity, and new achievements in social economic development. We applaud Kenya's leadership in advancing the cause of environmental protection at a global level. Mr. President, Environmental degradation is a global issue, and we share a collective responsibility to protect our planet and ensure a sustainable future for all. Overcoming the environmental challenges is possible only through the combined efforts of all countries, and today, more than ever, we must turn words into concrete actions. Kazakhstan is fully committed to multilateralism, and we call on all stakeholders state leaders, scientific community, business, and civil society to unite efforts in addressing the planetary environmental challenges. The Central Asian region faces numerous environmental risks associated with climate change, biodiversity loss, desertification, and environmental pollution, all of which have a direct impact on the sustainability of our ecosystems, food and energy security, public health, and the economy. Of great concern is the difficult environmental situation in the Caspian Sea, associated with shallowing, a reduction in bio-resources and anthropogenic pollution. To find solutions to existing challenges, Kazakhstan proposed holding fourth Caspian Economic Forum in the next two years. The consequences of the Aral Sea tragedy are felt not only in the countries of the region, but also beyond its borders. Kazakhstan is committed to the restoration and revitalization of the Aral Sea region. The country is chairing the International Fund for Saving the Aral Sea in 2024-2026 to foster collaboration among Central Asian nations in this area. On the initiative of Kazakhstan, the United Nations General Assembly declared the year 2026 as the International Year of Volunteers for Sustainable Development. Kazakhstan also proposed proclaiming April 22nd as the International Day of Planetary Greening and seeks support of this initiative. In order to address the environmental challenges facing the countries of the region, on the initiative of the President of Kazakhstan, Kassym-Jomart Tokayev, And in partnership with the United Nations and other international organizations, a regional ecological summit will be held in Astana in April 2026. Mr. President, at the national level on environmental agenda, Kazakhstan assigns priority to developing systemic and effective solutions. As such, Kazakhstan is committed to achieving carbon neutrality by 2060. and now is developing a national climate change adaptation plan. To tackle environmental pollution from waste, including from plastic, we approved the concept for the management of waste aimed at creating an effective waste management system. Water security is one of priority issues, and Kazakhstan initiated the establishment of a Shanghai Cooperation Organization Water Problem Study Center in Kazakhstan. In order to better manage and preserve water resources, the new Water Code was adopted.

Thank you, His Excellency of Kazakhstan. I now give the floor to Mr. Parfait Koudaio, Director of Cabinet Ministry of the Environment of Cote d'Ivoire.

Presidencies, Excellencies, ladies and gentlemen, to begin, I would like to, on behalf of His Excellency, Mr. Alassane Ouattara, President of Côte d'Ivoire, to thank the United Nations Environment Programme in order to prepare for this meeting. Excellencies, ladies and gentlemen, Côte d'Ivoire, along with other countries in the world, has ratified several international agreements and multilateral environmental agreements, specifically, in particular, the Paris Agreement on the climate and the 2030 Agenda. Ambitions, promises, and the hopes set out in these agreements require each country, each citizen, to change their lifestyle and their mode of consumption in order to prevent climate change and to achieve sustainable development goals. But the years have gone by, and conferences have come one after the other, and we're moving very, very slowly towards achieving our goals while the world continues to heat up. And we go inexorably towards the limits we have set out. Ladies and gentlemen, humanity is facing a triple planetary crisis, which is a constant and growing threat of climate change, the frightening loss of biodiversity and the amplified pollution. But we have seen scientific progress, innovation, and knowledge in order to transform environmental challenges into opportunities, in order to build a new world in which each citizen will be able to survive in a healthy planet with newfound prosperity. Ladies and gentlemen, Within this vision, Côte d'Ivoire calls on the citizens of the world to become co-citizens, to be part of the promotion of available solutions. We need increasingly to use renewable energy. We need to adopt practices of circular economy in all sectors. We need accessible financing for all. flexible source of financing in order to achieve better outcomes. UNEP Cote d'Ivoire supports the Global Environment Fund as the financial mechanism of the six Multilateral Environmental Agreements in order to respond to urgent environmental priorities and call on it to adapt its ways of working to existing realities. Excellencies, ladies and gentlemen, together, within mutual respect of our commitments, and within our shared will to transform our planet into a resilient planet in order to advance sustainable solutions for future generations, we need to set out a better world than that which you are currently experiencing. To conclude, I would like to address this message to the international community. We need to resolutely integrate Africa into being part of the solution in promoting sustainable solutions within the spirit of sharing, just and equitable in order to achieve sustainable development, which is desired by all. Together, on this single planet offered to us, we need to make this world a better place for future generations. Thank you.

Thank you, Director of Cabinet of Côte d'Ivoire. Now I give the floor to Mr. Mohamed Yaya Laffdal, General Director of Ministry of Environment and Sustainable Development of Mauritania.

In the.

Name of Allah the Merciful and Compassionate, I pronounce this statement on behalf of the Minister for the Environment and Sustainable Development of Mauritania, who could not be here due to other governmental commitments, presence of UNEA 7. President of the Ministry of Environment, Sultanate of Oman, members of the seventh session of UNEA, members of delegations, Executive Director of UNEP, ladies and gentlemen, first and foremost, allow me to express my congratulations to the President of UNEA 7 for the excellent work conducted under his presidency. His leadership has given rise to outcomes at all levels and for all issues addressed. Our presence today is proof of the interest shown by the international community in strengthening environmental governance and by supporting UNEP. The theme of this assembly, advancing sustainable solutions for a resilient planet, reflects the increased and coordinated awareness of all stakeholders in the field of environment. Ladies and gentlemen, Montenegro reiterates its continued commitment to strengthening environmental multilateralism. This is the only means to face the various environmental challenges and to achieve better sustainability solutions at the international, regional, sub-regional, and national levels. In translating this interest in sustainability and in context of our presidency, we have effectively taken part in various COPs held throughout this year. We have therefore set out long-term cooperation as a priority, in particular on issues which are urgent, on climate, while international forecasts are concerning, such as those forecasts as set out in UNFCCC reports. Forecasts for the African coastline, in particular, are particularly concerning, in particular, western coastline of Africa, where Mauritania is located, has seen increasing sea level rise, as well as the rise in precipitation. On biodiversity, the sixth biodiversity COP, was a success, in particular with the Convention on Biological Diversity framework on the fight against desertification. We had the most recent COP held in Riyadh. This enabled us to launch the first protocol, which will be submitted to States Parties during the next COP to be hosted by Mongolia next year. Ladies and gentlemen, I'd also like to highlight the importance of the Abidjan Agreement for the protection of the maritime environment. We had the honor to host the 14th Conference of the Parties.

I now give the floor to Mr. Constant Houndenyo, Technical Advisor, Ministry of Environment and Transport in charge of sustainable development of Benin.

Excellence.

Excellencies, ladies and gentlemen, environment ministers, dear delegates, and other guests, Madam Executive Director of UNEP, in my presentation, I'd like to welcome you on behalf of the head of the state of Benin, the Benin president, and myself, minister of Environment and Sustainable Development. And I'd like, first of all, to extend my welcome and gratitude for the excellent reception afforded to us by the Kenyan government. With regards to the subjects explored at this UNEA-7 session for Benin, environmental degradation is an urgent issue necessitating a global approach, which is being implemented locally in our country by the Minister of Sustainable Development. Well, advancing sustainable solutions for resilient planet, we need actions at three levels. At international level, the issues of climate change, where we shouldn't only limit ourselves to statements, but firm commitments in financial terms, in international institutions that are dealing with climate change and the environment at regional and sub-regional level to achieve the sustainability of ecosystems and the crucial infrastructure to which a budget needs to be allocated. The same dynamic leads us to a conclusion of the necessity to act at national level and to engage in voluntary actions to support and reinforce global resilience. The local level needs to be more in the focus of local and regional politicians in order to peg on indigenous and traditional knowledge to develop new, innovative solutions also using the latest technologies. Traditional The traditional knowledge, unfortunately, has not been sufficiently sustained. States and international organizations need to reinforce their cooperation in order to identify complementary and sustainable solutions for our planet. I'd like to conclude my presentation by expressing my sincere thanks to the UNEP Executive Director, to her entire staff, all the experts of the UN and all of the stakeholders at this session for their hard work at this Assembly, so that these seeds come to fruition and flourish. Thank you.

I thank the technical advisor of Benin. I now give the floor to Mrs. Ilima Klushat, Director of the Bureau of Environment, Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries, and Environmental of Palau.

Mr. President, Excellencies, distinguished delegates, colleagues, and friends of the planet, Alii and greetings from Palau. Palau welcomes the UNEA 7 Ministerial Declaration and its comprehensive approach to environmental challenges. This declaration validates what we have long practiced, environmental stewardship through the integration of traditional knowledge, scientific evidence, and inclusive governance. We stand at a critical juncture, halfway to Agenda 2030. yet facing a reversal of decades of progress in nature conservation. In Palau, we look to our traditional practice of Bul, an adaptive moratorium declared by village chiefs to allow nature to rest and renew. Bul is not a pause of weakness, but a pause of wisdom. It teaches us balance, that conservation and well-being must coexist. In today's volatile global context, Bull offers a lesson for us all, that adaptability, restraint, and respect for natural limits are essential to ensure continuity and resilience. This principle, balance between people and planet, must guide our decisions from local communities to global governance. For Palau and all big ocean states. The ocean is our lifeblood. It sustains our economies, cultures, and identities. But it is also the planet's greatest climate regulator. The ocean and climate are inseparable. To heal one, we must heal both. That is why Palau continues to champion the ocean-climate nexus, ensuring that ocean action is climate action, and that climate finance supports ocean resilience. We align fully with the Pacific Small Island Developing States in calling for outcomes that raise ambition and protect environmental integrity. We will resist efforts that weaken, delay, or shift burdens onto those least responsible. We will continue to use our collective voice to ensure that the realities of frontline communities are never sidelined. Mr. President, If multilateralism is to prove its worth, it must deliver first for those who have the most to lose. Our islands, our people, and our shared blue continent depend on it. Palau stands ready to collaborate, but we cannot do this alone. We need generosity, partnership, and action, not just declaration. We extend our gratitude to Kenya for hosting this assembly and to UNEP for their leadership. I thank you.

I thank the Director of the Bureau of Palau. I now give the floor to Mr. Joseph Carabana, Permanent Secretary, Ministry for the Environment, Energy and Public Cleanliness of Malta.

Excellencies, distinguished delegates, it is an honour to address the seventh session of the UN Environment Assembly. We meet at a moment When accelerating climate impacts, biodiversity loss and pollution are undermining human well-being and development. Our response must be urgent, science-based, and firmly rooted in multilateral cooperation. As a member of the European Union, Malta aligns itself with the statement delivered on behalf of the EU and its member states. Multilateral environment agreements have shown that when nations act together, we can tackle even the most complex environmental challenges. Malta believes that strengthening multilateralism and environmental diplomacy is essential to implement our commitments and deliver a resilient, just future for all. At national level, Malta is adopting a whole of government and a whole of society approach. Vision 2050, our forthcoming long-term strategy, will guide socio-economic development towards a climate neutrality, a circular and resource efficient economy, and a healthy natural environment. It is designed to align today's choices with tomorrow's realities and with our international obligations, including the Paris Agreement and the Global Biodiversity Framework, to enhance environmental resilience Malta is implementing the National Biodiversity Strategy and Action Plan 2030. We are addressing drivers of biodiversity loss, strengthening management of protected areas, restoring degraded ecosystems, and fostering public participation through awareness and citizen science initiatives. EU supported projects are restoring priority marine habitats and building local conservation capacity. As an island nation, the Mediterranean Sea is central to our identity and prosperity. Malta is expanding ecological monitoring, promoting nature-based solutions, and advancing marine restoration, including Posidonia seagrass transplantation and measures to protect vulnerable ecosystems. Our ratification of the BBNJ Treaty reflects Malta's long-standing role as a bridge builder in ocean governance. We are also reinforcing climate and energy resilience by accelerating renewable energy deployment, simplifying permitting, and designating offshore renewable energy zones. Malta supports stronger role for UNEP as a global hub for environmental governance, while fully respecting the mandates of multilateral environment agreements. We call for a robust science policy interface. results-based management, and predictable, adequate resources, with particular attention to vulnerable countries, SIDS, and geographically remote states. We further stress the importance of gender equality, youth engagement, and inclusive stakeholder participation as pillars of a just transition. Malta stands ready to work with all nations to accelerate environmental action and secure a greater, cleaner, and more equitable world. Thank you.

I thank the Permanent Secretary of Malta. I now give the floor to Mrs. Amy Frankel, Executive Secretary of the Convention on the Conservation of Migratory Species of Wild Animals, the Convention on Biological Diversity, on behalf of the Liaison Group of Biodiversity-related Conventions.

Good morning, colleagues. There's been a slight change of plan. Ms. Frankel has to leave. My name is Astrid Schoma, Executive Secretary of the Convention on Biological Diversity. Your Excellencies, distinguished delegates, ladies and gentlemen, it is my honor to deliver this statement on behalf of the executive heads of the eight biodiversity-related conventions that collaborate through the Biodiversity Liaison Group: the Convention on Biological Diversity, the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora, CITES, the Convention on Migratory Species, the Convention on Wetlands, the UNESCO World Heritage Convention, the International Plant Protection Convention, the International Treaty on Plant Genetic Resources for Food and Agriculture, and the International Whaling Commission. We welcome UNEA-7 under the theme Advancing Sustainable Solutions for a Resilient Planet. Multilateral environmental agreements offer legally binding and focused solutions to distinct environmental challenges that form the individual mandates. Together, the Biodiversity of Asian Group Conventions provide the governance backbone for such challenges, a major contribution to sustainable development. They respect and complement each other, adding value by cooperation. We welcome the strong interest in MEAs at this Assembly and the opportunity to discuss how to make our work together even more impactful. We note that efforts to enhance cooperation need to take the mandates and instructions of the respective governing bodies into account. Biodiversity loss, climate change, pollution, and land degradation are inseparable, but governance often treats them in silos. To achieve the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework objectives and other global environmental goals, Integration at national implementation level must become the norm. The mandates of the eight global biodiversity conventions together aim to address these related challenges, and we continue to explore opportunities that add value within our mandates. From the BLG perspective, the way forward is clear: move from silos to systems. Together, we can turn global aspirations into practical commitments and actions for biodiversity conservation and sustainable use, ecosystem restoration, and environmental mainstreaming. We also welcome practical steps whenever appropriate to ease the burden on countries, such as harmonized reporting, aligned planning cycles, and digital platforms. These measures improve efficiency without creating new governance structures. Through the BLG, the Berne Process, INFORMIA and other mechanisms, we stand ready to support Parties in achieving this. Finally, we welcome effective engagement with UNEP and other key actors to work together to tackle the drivers of environmental change and degradation and to find solutions. Together, we can achieve our shared objectives for a sustainable future. Thank you.

I thank Mrs. Astrid Schumacher, Executive Secretary of the Convention on Biological Diversity. I now give the floor to Mr. Carlos Lopes Jimenez, Senior Official, Directorate General for the Environment, Ministry of Tourism and Environment of Timor-Leste.

Excellencies, Mr. President, distinguished delegates, ladies and gentlemen, it is indeed a great honor for Timor-Leste delegation to address this high-level segment UNEP event. We stand our warm congratulation to the presidency, and we appreciate the leadership of UNEP in advancing global environmental governance. We also thank member states and partners for their commitment to a more sustainable future for all. Timor-Leste stands here today as a nation, but one rich in natural beauty, marine resource, cultural heritage, and a strong determination to protect the environment for future generation. As a small island development state, we face unique vulnerabilities. We are on the front line of climate change, biodiversity loss, land degradation, ocean pollution, and increasing climate-related disaster. Rising temperatures, coastal erosion, and extreme weather threaten our people livelihoods, food security, and national development aspirations. Yet we are not here only to speak of challenges. We are here with commitment, solutions, and hope. Timor-Leste is advancing national efforts to build a greener, more climate-resilient future. We are strengthening environmental governance and legislation aligning with multilateral environmental agreements and national development priorities. We are updating our nationally determined contribution and stepping up ambition to reduce emissions and enhance adaptation across key sectors. We are expanding reforestation, ecosystem restoration efforts, promoting community-based conservation, sustainable agriculture, and water protection. We are investing in marine conservation and protecting our blue economy, including sustainable fisheries and protection of coral reefs that sustain coastal communities. We are taking steps to manage our waste plastic pollution, including policies to reduce single-use plastics and improve waste management infrastructure. However, For a city like Timor-Leste, our commitment must be matched with global support. We call upon development partners, financial institutions, and the international community to ensure accessible, predictable, and equitable climate and environmental financing, including through adaptation funds, technology transfer, and capacity building. Excellencies, UNICEF reminds us that environmental challenges do not respect borders. Our response must be collective and grounded in multilateralism, science, and solidarity. We believe the decision taken here can accelerate global implementation of environmental dimension of the 2030 agenda and contribute directly to safeguarding the planet for generations to come. Timor-Leste reaffirms its full support for the work of UNEP and stand ready to cooperate with all nations to advance climate action, protect biodiversity, strengthen resilience, and promote sustainable development that leaves no one behind. Let us with proposing urgency for our planet, for our peoples, and for our common future. Thank you.

I thank senior official of Timor-Leste. I now give the floor to Mrs. Savali Fatoga, Deputy Secretary for the Ministry of Home Affairs, Climate Change, and Environment of Tuvalu.

Mr. President, Excellencies, distinguished delegates, I am honored to speak on behalf of the Government of Tuvalu. We have traveled thousands of miles from our homes to be here in Nairobi, driven by a commitment to advancing constructive ideas that protect our planet. As a small island country, the health of our oceans is not just a priority, it is a matter of survival. The theme of this year's UNEA, Advancing Sustainable Solutions for a Resilient Planet, resonates deeply with us. For Tuvalu, our very existence is tied to ocean. The sea is our lifeblood, and it is under threat from climate change and human-induced activities. We are witnessing the devastating effects of climate change, ocean acidification, and pollution, which are eroding the resilience of our oceans. UNES7 presents a critical opportunity for all of us to act, and Tuvalu stands firm in its commitment to advancing sustainable solutions that protect our planet's most vital ecosystems. As custodians of the Blue Pacific, we share a deep responsibility for protecting our oceans and the ecosystems that sustain them. It is imperative that protection of the ocean and vulnerable ecosystems be central to global action. We welcome UNESR's focus on deep sea ecosystems, coral reefs, and other critical habitats, all of which are vital not only to the resilience of the Pacific and to us Tuvalu, but also to global biodiversity and climate regulation. These ecosystems support our economies, cultures, and food systems, and are integral to the health of the planet. Finally, we emphasize the importance of means of implementation to translate decisions into real, tangible outcomes. We would require assessable and predictable finance, practical technology transfer, strengthened data systems, and targeted capacity building. We encourage UNES7 to ensure that these enabling conditions are reflected in all the resolutions and across the programs of work and budget, recognizing the constraints faced by our small country. Tuvalu remains committed to working collaboratively with all member states to advance solutions that safeguard guard our oceans, ecosystems, and the resilience of the planet. Together, we can build a sustainable future for all.

I thank the Deputy Secretary of Tuvalu. I now give the floor to Mr. Deepak Nagwale, Joint Secretary, Ministry of Forests and Environment of Nepal.

Mr. President, Excellencies, Delegate, Distinguished Delegates, Namaste and good morning. Nepal thanks the Executive Director, the UNEP Secretariat, the Chairs, Co-facilitator, and all Member States for the constructive and forward-looking UNEP 7. We deeply appreciate the technical team whose tireless efforts and continued support has enabled productive negotiations. This session has provided Nepal with valuable insights, particularly those resolutions on mountain ecosystems and glaciers, climate resilience, pollution reduction, wildfire management, circularity, and nature-based solutions. As a highly climatically vulnerable mountainous least developed country, Nepal welcomes the recognition of the urgent need for action to safeguard fragile mountain ecosystems and support local communities on the front line of climate impacts. We also appreciate the strongly emphasis on enhanced cooperation, scientific assessment, data sharing, capacity building, and technology transfer, critical elements for achieving the YMEs and YSGs goal. Nepal's national actions strongly reflect The priorities advance here, maintaining over 45% forest cover, advancing ecosystem restoration, wildlife corridors, and watershed protection that sustains millions, strengthening protection and restoration of the critical mountain ecosystem, biodiversity conservation using nature-based solutions, integrating the circular economy principle, improving air quality, managing waste, and accelerating clean energy transition. Despite the progress, Nepal continues to face challenges of limited resources, fragile and remote mountain terrain, and increasing climate-induced disasters. Therefore, global environmental action must remain inclusive, integrated, adequately financed, and equitable, ensuring that vulnerable countries can effectively implement their commitments under UNF7 resolution. Nepal will carry forward the learning and partnership from the Assembly to strengthen our NTDs, NBs, and NABs for a green, resilient, and sustainable mountain future. We extend our sincere thanks to UNEP and all the delegates for their openness, support, collaboration, and shared dedication. Thank you.

I thank the Joint Secretary of Nepal. I now give the floor to His Excellency Badh Badar Bad, Minister for Environment and Climate Change of Mongolia.

Excellencies, distinguished delegates, ladies and gentlemen, Mongolia is honored to participate in UNIA7. Climate change, biodiversity loss, land degradation, pollution, and unsustainable resource use are interconnected challenges that demand urgent, coordinated, transformative actions. Mongolia aligns national action with the SDGs, UNEA resolutions, and the Rio Conventions, and the other MEAs to ensure that every effort delivers multiple benefits for people and nature. We have embedded global commitments into long-term policies. Vision 2050 prioritizes green growth. Our NDC targets 30.3% emissions reduction by 3035. Land degradation neutrality is integrated into national land use planning, and our national biodiversity strategy and action plan guides the protection of our globally significant steppe and wildlife. We're expanding protected areas, currently 21%, with a long-standing commitment to reach 30%, advancing transboundary conservation and straightening community-led approaches. On water and circularity, Mongolia is expanding drinking water supply, introducing advanced wastewater reuse, and piloting circular water systems in rural areas to support agriculture and resilient landscapes. On chemicals and waste, we have phased out 75% of ozone-depleting substances. straightened hazardous waste management under Minamata, BRS conventions, and are advancing plastics reform and extended producer responsibility to double recycling rates by 2030. We continue to enhance chemicals governance and invest in advanced monitoring to reduce pollution, risks, and safeguard human and ecosystem health. We are deploying innovative market-based finance approaches, including blended finance, climate nature credits, risk transfer instruments, and digital tools such as AI, traceability systems, and straightened MRV to scale solutions efficiently and transparently. We call on member states, development partners, and the private sectors to support practical solutions linking climate, biodiversity, land, water, pollution management. By combining finance, technology, and nature-based approaches, we can achieve measurable long-term impacts. Mongolia, dear friends, is a commitment to lead by example, integrating sustainability across its economy, promoting circularity, and enhancing resilience. We stand ready to work with all partners to make UNES7 outcomes actionable and inclusive and transformative for current and future generations. As a host of UN's COP17, Mongolia will continue leadership by promoting rangeland stewardship, resilient infrastructure, and integrated land water management, initiatives designed to be financeable, inclusive, and scalable. After 247 days, We welcome you to Mongolia for the 17th session of the Conference of the Parties to the United Nations Convention to Combat Desertification. Thank you.

To Mr. Osborne Melenamu, Director of the Department of Environment Protection and Conservation of Vanuatu.

Mr. Excellencies. Distinguished delegates, Fernando is honored to address the high level segment and extend our gratitude to the UNEP and the Secretary and the host country. We meet at this time when the foundation of multilateralism are being tested, yet never more essential. The crisis we face, climate change, biodiversity losses, pollution, and ocean degradation do not occur in isolation. They are intersect, compound one another and demands responsible that are integrated, cooperative and grounded in shared responsibility. For science is our safety. It is not only a requirement for sound decision making, it is a responsibility we must uphold in an evolving world. When science is strong, global governance is strong. When science is weak or politicized, the most vulnerable bear the heaviest consequences. During our time here at the UNIA, we are encouraged by the bold support expressed for strengthening deep sea science and addressing critical knowledge gaps. Although consensus was not reached on our draft resolution, the message from many delegates was clear: understanding the deep sea ecosystem is urgent and essential. We are committed to bring our resolution back to unit aid. In that spirit, FANAU is pleased to announce a new next phase initiative, an independent global synthesis for science and indices knowledge on deep sea ecosystem, designed to consolidate what is known, identify gaps, and make those findings openly accessible and policy relevant. This work will be carried out with Collusion of willing states, scientific institutes, and partners. Mr. President, pacific teaches us that ocean does not divide us, it connect us. So too must our actions. Multilateralism must connect us. Science must guide us. And our shared responsibility for future generation must unite us. Vanuatu remain committed to work with all nations to strengthen global environmental governance grounded in cooperation, evidence, and integrity. I thank you.

Thank you, Director of Vanuatu. I now give the floor to Mr. Benjamin Shatter, Coordinator of the Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights.

Thank you, Chair. I speak on behalf of the Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights. For environmental action to work, it must be guided by human rights. All around the world, pollution in our environment, the air we breathe, the water we drink, the earth we walk, and the food we eat, is making people sicken and even die. Climate change is threatening the survival of entire ecosystems and driving increasingly intense disasters that harm and destroy communities, killing and displacing their people. Nature and those who depend most directly on it are suffering. It is the people who have contributed the least to environmental destruction who all too often experience the worst impacts on their rights, and it is their agency and the safe exercise of their rights that can deliver the solutions we need. Injustice and a degraded environment need not be what we leave behind. Yet some actors deny the science that must inform decision making, and others are concerned with short-term interests and profits. Their actions come at a great cost to our collective work to protect people and the planet, now and in the future. The human right to a healthy environment is both a precondition for the effective enjoyment of other human rights and dependent upon them. The rights to information, participation, and to benefit from science and its applications are essential to effective decision-making. Yet science is under attack here, and civic space is narrowing. Some states are seeking to build walls between different parts of the multilateral system. when we need to come together and embrace synergies, the results are dissonant and lack the ambition we need. Last Wednesday, on International Human Rights Day, many resolutions were agreed upon. They did not reference human rights, not gender equality, not the rights of indigenous peoples, not the human right to a healthy environment. On the same day, at a UNEA event on just transition, the right to a healthy environment, and child and youth participation, Children and youth shared a stage with the Executive Director of UNEP, the UN Special Rapporteur on Human Rights and Toxics, and the Minister of Environment of Slovenia, among others. Their statements were powerful and their voices in need of being heard, but they do not seem to have carried into negotiations where the Convention on the Rights of the Child and children themselves were removed from a resolution initially focused on children and youth participation. This is not right, not just, not good policy. Rights-based, participatory, and inclusive approaches to environmental action lead to more effective and sustainable outcomes. To navigate environmental crises, we must change the way we live, the way we make decisions, the way we relate to nature. This starts with respecting, protecting, and fulfilling all human rights. OHCHR is here to help advance human rights solutions that people and nature depend on. We need to do it together. Thank you.

Thank you, Mr. Benjamin Schachter. I now give the floor to Mrs. Greta Aguilar, Director General of the International Union for Conservation of Nature.

Chair, Excellencies, Distinguished Delegates, UNEA-7 convenes at a pivotal moment. The accelerating threats to our climate, nature, and environment demand urgent, integrated, and inclusive action. This Assembly takes place just a few weeks after the IUCN World Conservation Congress. convened in Abu Dhabi, gathering over 10,000 participants from more than 189 countries. With five years remaining to 2030, the IUCN Congress called on the world to significantly increase ambition and collective action to scale up and implement transformative and collaborative solutions that address the needs of both nature and people. In particular, it emphasizes the importance of seizing the current momentum to enhance synergies in the actions we undertake to implement the key multilateral agreements and secure ambitious actions for a net zero resilient and nature positive future. We need a transformative and radical change in thinking, a joint and joint collective and effective multilateral action. Ensuring that all sectors of society, including indigenous peoples organizations, local communities, private sector, and non-governmental organizations, are involved and strategically aligned to promote cooperation globally and regionally. International environmental and economic governance systems need to be transformed to become nature positive, starting with the repurposing of environmentally harmful subsidies. At UNEA7, we hope to see decisive action to advance negotiations on the Global Plastic Treaty, as well as political commitments to build momentum towards the 2026 UN Water Conference. This conference must deliver a transformative change for global water governance, an agreement on how we collectively will manage this resource, which all life depends on. All of this will be especially challenging in a moment of growing conflicts, mounting geopolitical tensions, and heightened strains on multilateralism. We must stay hopeful, and we have to raise to the occasion to secure a livable planet for future generations. We in IUCN stand ready to support member states with science-based knowledge policy tools, and capacity building to translate ambition into action. Because together, we can build a just world that values and conserve nature. Thank you very much. Gracias.

I thank Director General. I now give the floor to Mr. Rolf Paiet, Executive Secretary of the Basel, Rotterdam, and Stockholm Conventions.

Thank you, Mr. Chair, Your Excellency, distinguished delegates, ladies and gentlemen. Today we stand at a triple crossroad. Our planet is in dire need of serious attention. With pollution levels hitting the roof, greenhouse gas emissions increasing, and biodiversity under severe stress, we cannot deny it anymore. A resilient planet needs multilateralism. sustainable approaches, and most importantly, a whole of UN, a whole of government, and a whole of society approach. It is not only the earth that is crying today. It is the millions displaced by increased extreme weather events. It is the families of those millions dying from pollution-induced diseases. Over the last two weeks, we've had the opportunity to bring to UNEA our aspirations for a better, cleaner, and healthier planet. I leave it to you to judge whether those aspirations have been met. We are indeed reminded time after time that pollution is not just an environmental issue. It is the root cause of biodiversity loss and climate change. with impacts that are both immediate and long-lasting. Remember, we are the generation that created the global plastic pollution issue. Can we be now the generation that solves it? I think we can. Indeed, history has taught us a very painful lesson: cleaning up later often means not cleaning up at all, or requiring extraordinary efforts and investments to undo irreversible damage. But there can be opportunities once we build bridges with economic and social development in mind. For decades, the Basel, Rotterdam, and Stockholm Conventions have worked hand in hand, supporting parties by promoting a life cycle approach, from early warning and risk assessment of hazardous chemicals to policy solutions for environmentally sound management of chemicals and wastes. These conventions are legally binding for a reason: to ensure that we all honour our commitments, despite our circumstances and capacities. We have demonstrated that through synergies, shared objectives, and multilateral efforts, we can deliver impactful global change and serve as a model for future progress in protecting our people, our planet, and our environment. The high-level segment of the Basel-Rotterdam and Stockholm Convention COPs earlier this year made one point clear: investment in circular solutions is not an option, but the foundation for a sustainable future. No one said it was going to be easy to transition from linear to circular systems, but it is possible, and can only happen with intentional national policies with bold targeted investments which target safe alternatives to hazardous chemicals, adoptions of cleaner technologies, and investment in sustainable infrastructures. And such must also be designed to drive innovation, create healthy jobs, and stimulate economic growth. UNEA-7 offers us a unique platform to accelerate action. transforming the commitments we have made into concrete solutions, and solutions into measurable impact. The planet is running out of time. We are running out of time. Thank you.

I thank Mr. Roth-Pyatt. I now give the floor to Mrs. Irini Dourou, Member of the Parliament of the Parliamentary Assembly of the Mediterranean.

Excellencies, distinguished colleagues, ladies and gentlemen, it is really an honor to speak at the seventh session of the United Nations Environment Assembly on behalf of the Parliamentary Assembly of Mediterranean, PAM, an international organization that brings together 35 members parliaments from the Euro-Mediterranean and the Gulf region. It is also an honor to stand among you, united in the search for what UNEP Executive Director Inger Andersen aptly described as a real solution to real world problems. Pam and me personally, we welcome the report of the United Nations Environment Programme Executive Director to UNEP 7. highlight critical areas such as water resource management, nutrition, pollution, governance of minerals, stratospheric protection, and the environmental impact of AI. PAM has intensified its efforts to support sustainable and resilient environmental governance throughout the Euro-Mediterranean and Gulf regions convinced as we are, the key role that parliamentarians can and must play in this area. Our Assembly is working on comprehensive reports on the issue of the right to water in the region and on the many impacts of AI, including on the environment. A key milestone in this work has been the launch of the Parliamentarians' Guide to Protecting the Mediterranean Sea and Coast, a joint PAM-UNEP MAP project as a tangible deliverable of the MAP-UNEP Memorandum signed in 2022. PAM has recently been reelected as fully fledged member of the Mediterranean Commission on Sustainable Development, further reinforcing the parliamentary dimension of the Barcelona Convention. PAM will keep mobilizing its parliaments to deepen regional and international cooperation, supporting UNEP in ensuring that global environmental commitments translated on concrete national action. Dear colleagues, Only by joint forces can we deliver the transformative change needed for a cleaner, safer, and more resilient planet, especially in times of growing threats to multilateral action and diplomacy. Our people and our planet call upon us to act together for democracy, for peace, and for social cohesion, and I'm sure that we'll succeed. Thank you very much.

Thank you, Mrs. Irene Duro. Now I give the floor to Mrs. Yvonne Higuero, Secretary General of the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora.

Thank you, Chair. Excellencies, distinguished delegates, it is a privilege to join you today, and our warmest thanks to Kenya for hosting us. I traveled to Nairobi directly from Samarkand, Uzbekistan, where we concluded the 20th meeting of the Conference of the Parties to CITES. My warmest thanks to our host, Uzbekistan, for their extraordinary hospitality. Samarkand, a jewel of the Silk Road, became a crossroad of cultures, values, and cooperation that have defined CITES for the last 50 years. At UNEA 7, we have heard a clear call to overcome fragmentation in environmental governance, a challenge we know well. For CITES, integration is a daily reality. Our convention spans multiple sectors: food, fisheries, timber, health, cosmetics, fashion, musical instruments, pets, fragrances, and more. Biodiversity is not a niche issue. It is embedded in global trade, culture, and economies. Cooperation, collaboration, and complementarity are essential if we are to deliver on the CITES strategic vision, the Kunming-Montréal Global Biodiversity Framework, the SDGs, and other global goals. CITES brings unique value to this conversation. It is the only global agreement that regulates international trade in over 41,000 species of animals and plants. standing at the crossroads of wildlife conservation, trade, and sustainable development, balancing the need to protect species from extinction with the economic and social benefits derived from legal, traceable wildlife commerce, navigating challenges like biodiversity loss, climate change, and illegal trafficking to ensure that trade supports, not harms, nature. At COP20, 167 parties showed what multilateralism can achieve. 77 new species added to the appendices, two new resolutions on jaguars and eels, strengthening cooperation for species under pressure, stronger measures against wildlife crime, including illicit financial flows and online trafficking. These outcomes matter beyond CITES. They prove that sustainability and legality in trade are indispensable to achieving global biodiversity targets, and when science, enforcement, and cooperation converge, progress is possible. But let us be clear: success will depend on breaking down barriers. Data comparability and joint technical work can ease burdens and accelerate delivery, but strengthened coordination between sectors and ministries is needed make it happen. UNEA has been considering more effective collaboration and complementarity among MEAs, and in this spirit, I encourage Member States to invest in practical tools and national mechanisms that make cooperation effective to facilitate implementation of the Conventions. Let us turn fragmentation into synergies and have more impactful results. Together, we can ensure that wild species thrive, ecosystems flourish, and future generations inherit a planet rich in biodiversity, the ambitious objective of CITES. Thank you.

Thank you, Mrs. Yvonne Higuero. I now give the floor to Mr. Mahmoud Fattalla, Director of the Environmental Affairs Department of the League of Arab States.

Mr. President of UNEA, Madam Executive Director of UNEP, Excellencies, ladies and gentlemen, may the peace and blessings of God be upon you. At the outset, I would like to thank His Excellency Dr. Abdullah bin Ali Al Amri, Chairman of Oman's Environment authority for his wise presidency of UNIA-7. Ladies and gentlemen, increasing environmental challenges such as climate change, biodiversity loss, land degradation, desertification, water scarcity, and extreme weather events are now threatening food and water security and sustainable development, especially in the Arab region. Today's meeting comes at a very important moment that requires collective action and sustainable solutions based on science and innovation, and based on nature, circular economy, and the capacity of countries to adapt and be resilient. The Arab League confirms the following: First, promote synergies between multilateral environmental agreements in order to ensure increased efficiency of implementation and avoid duplication while respecting the provisions of other conventions. Second, provide technical and capacity building support to developing countries, especially in negotiations and national reporting. Then, emphasize commitment to the principles of the conventions, mainly justice, equity, and common but differentiated responsibilities. And we have to emphasize respect for full sovereignty of states over their natural resources. The League of Arab States expresses concern, deep concern, over the environmental and humanitarian destruction in Palestine and Sudan, Yemen, Syria, and Iraq. And it is important to assess the ecosystem damage and the damage to the infrastructure by UNEP. And also, we have to assess the environmental impact of the war on Gaza, and we call on the completion of the comprehensive analytical assessment. We call for the cooperation with UNEA and UNEP so that we facilitate the transfer of technology, technical support, and capacity building to the countries of the region. Thank you.

We will now suspend the session until the next presiding officer take over.

Honorable ministers, excellencies, distinguished delegates, ladies and gentlemen, the Assembly will continue its consideration of agenda item 9, high-level segments to hear the IGOs' statements. I wish to remind speakers of the time limit of three minutes for the statements. Speakers with longer statements are encouraged to read a shorter version of their text and to submit the full length of their statement to the Secretariat for posting on the website. The delegations are also encouraged to send their written statements to the Secretariat to facilitate interpretation. In case of speakers who exceed their time limits by one minute, the microphone will be automatically deactivated, and I apologize in advance if speakers are cut off. As you know, we have just a limited time left, so this measure is to ensure that all speakers can deliver their statements. Therefore, I urge all delegates to deliver these statements within the allotted time and at a reasonable pace, please, so that the interpretation in the other official UN languages may be provided properly. Now we continue, and now I give the floor to Mr. Reiner Frauenfeld, Director of the Multicountry Office for Eastern and Southern Africa of the United Nations Office for Project Services. Sir, you have the floor.

Excellencies, colleagues and friends, it is an honor to be here with you today at this important session, which speaks so clearly to UNOPS' focus: offering practical solutions for a resilient, sustainable, and inclusive world. Climate action drives real economic and development opportunities, while climate risks can undermine decades of development gains. Funding remains a key challenge. The current international financial architecture is too fragmented and inequitable to allow for effective action on climate and development. Fragile and conflict-affected states are disproportionately impacted by climate change. There's a clear gap between commitments to face the climate emergency and the ability to make them happen. As the only UN organization fully dedicated to implementation with a mandate in infrastructure, procurement, and project management, UNOPS provides practical solutions to help bridge the implementation gap. We are committed to turning ambition into action, helping countries to transform their adaptation and mitigation efforts, and ensure that every investment delivers maximum impact. Infrastructure plays a key role in this regard. Infrastructure is responsible for an estimated 79% of all greenhouse gas emissions. and 88% of all adaptation costs. It also underpins the SDGs, influencing up to 92% of targets across all 17 goals. To deliver on the Paris Agreement and SDGs, we need immediate and radical change in how infrastructure is planned, delivered, and managed. The infrastructure choices we make today will determine whether communities can drive a more sustainable, resilient, and inclusive world. Infrastructure is central to the clean energy transition. UNOPS is dedicated to support a just, inclusive, and equitable transition away from fossil fuels, to achieve energy access for all. In Sierra Leone, for example, with the support of the UK, Japan, and the World Bank, UNOPS has helped rural communities access sustainable, low-carbon energy through the use of solar energy technology for the benefit of residents as well as local businesses and essential services. Public-private partnerships agreements have enabled private investment into mini-grids. Colleagues, We stand at a defining moment. The choices we make today, the investments we prioritize, the partnerships we forge.

Thank you very much. And now I invite Mr. Jerome Monmeyer, Executive Director of the Essendon Center for Biodiversity, to deliver his statement. Sir, the floor is yours.

Excellencies, ladies and gentlemen, on behalf of the ASEAN Center for Biodiversity, I extend our sincerest appreciation to the Government of Kenya and the United Nations Environment Programme for the excellent arrangements for UNEA 7. At the 6th Asia-Pacific Ministers’ Forum in Fiji, The ASEAN Center for Biodiversity recalled its earlier submission of inputs to the zero draft of the UNEA-7 Ministerial Declaration, and we are encouraged to see several of these reflected in the ongoing consultations, particularly the emphasis on evidence-based and science-driven actions and the recognition of Indigenous Peoples and local communities as essential partners in governance and stewardship. These elements reinforce coherence across multilateral environmental agreements such as the Ramsar Convention on Wetlands, the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora, the Convention on Migratory Species of Wild Animals, and align with long-standing ASEAN commitments under the Convention on Biological Diversity. As an accredited intergovernmental organization observer to the UNEA, the ASEAN Center for Biodiversity underscores the vital role of multilateral cooperation in addressing interconnected crisis of climate change, biodiversity loss, land degradation, and pollution. In 2024, ASEAN reached a major milestone with the adoption of the ASEAN Biodiversity Plan. at the 16th meeting of the Conference of Parties to the CBD, reflecting the region's collective resolve to conserve and restore biodiversity in line with the ASEAN Vision 2025 and its aspiration for a resilient and people-centered community by 2045. The ASEAN Center for Biodiversity was honored to support this process and remains committed to this implementation. Our mandate bridges science and policy across Asia through the ASEAN Clearinghouse Mechanism, regional biodiversity assessments, and our designation as one of the 18 Technical and Scientific Cooperation Support Centers for the implementation of the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework. And the ACB continues to strengthen technical cooperation, capacity building, and knowledge sharing for effective biodiversity action. Looking ahead, the ASEAN Centre for Biodiversity will help advance the Declaration's priorities by promoting the One Health approach, supporting coherent implementation of the Global Biodiversity Framework, and ensuring that women, youth, indigenous peoples, and local communities are empowered as co-leaders in environmental governance and stewardship. We also value South-South and triangular cooperation, and we look forward to working closely with regional partners such as the International Center for Integrated Mountain Development, the Mekong River Commission, the Pacific Island Forum, the Secretariat of the Pacific Regional.

Thank you very much. And as next speaker, I invite Ms. Chadia Vanu, One Health Global Coordinator of the World Organization for Animal Health. The floor is yours. Thank you.

Thank you. The World Organization for Animal Health, OIE, is honored to join UNEA7 and to underscore the critical importance of animal health to environmental protection and human well-being as we collectively work toward resilience, pandemic and health threat prevention, and sustainable development. Animal health, environmental integrity, and biodiversity are deeply interdependent. Healthy livestock, wildlife, and aquatic animals underpin economic stability. Safe and well-managed animal populations support biodiversity, offer critical ecosystem services, contribute to climate regulation, and strengthen the resilience of our natural system. Investing in strong veterinary services and wildlife health is therefore not only about animal health and welfare, it's essential for protecting the ecosystem that sustain all forms of life. A One Health approach grounded our organizational work. Through the quadripartite collaboration with FAO, UNEP, and WHO, we support countries to design and implement integrated policies that address the shared drivers of environmental degradation, health threats, and emerging diseases. This approach ensured that solutions are coherent, multisectoral, and rooted in sound science. Preventing zoonotic spillover at the source is equally critical. Wuhan has recently assumed the secretariat of the International Alliance against Health Threats in wildlife trade. It's a global network of more than 180 organizations and over 500 experts. The Alliance aims to scale up primary prevention. By hosting this secretariat, WHO has strengthened its role as a global environmental actor and policy influence. Climate resilience and environmentally integrated animal health systems are fundamental to WHO's mission. Climate change is accelerating the emergence and the spread of animal, zoonotic, and vector-borne diseases, putting both wildlife and livestock under increasing pressure. WHO is supporting its member countries to build integrated early warning system, surveillance, and preparedness capacities to manage these climate-sensitive risks. Moreover, WHO supports veterinary services to remain operational under extreme weather events and promote sustainable, low-emission, high-welfare practices that protect the environment while supporting resilient livelihoods. Through our global standard and coordinated partnership, WUHAR guides member countries in aligning animal health action with broader climate and biodiversity commitments. Excellency, by advancing animal health,

Thank you very much. The correction, you have three minutes sharp. I apologize for the misunderstanding previously. So next, i would like to call Mr. Kargile Masso, principal scientist, livestock, climates, and environments of the Multifunctional Landscape Science Program of the Consultative Group on International Agricultural Research to take the floor.

Excellencies, distinguished delegates, ladies and gentlemen. On behalf of the CGIAR, the world's largest public agricultural research partnership, allow me to underscore the scale of the challenge before us. The IPCC IPBES joint assessment indicates that environmental degradation affects approximately 75% of the terrestrial ecosystems, 40% of the marine environment, and 50% of freshwater systems. These findings make one point unmistakably clear. Environmental pressures are pushing our planet beyond safe limits. It's time to walk the talk before it's too late. To accelerate actions, target investments in sustainable food systems, water management and use efficiency, ecosystems health, soil health, and community driven innovations are essential. Every dollar invested in restoration of degraded lands can yield up to $30 in economic returns. As such, sound environmental actions are strong foundation for socioeconomic development. The triple planetary crisis, biodiversity loss, climate change, and pollution, requires science-based responses and systems thinking. The theme of UNEA7 speaks directly to this need and aligns closely with the CGIAR's mission, delivering actionable science that helps governments and communities strengthen resilience from the ground up. "With science, we can," says the CGIAR EMD, Dr. Ismahan Elwafi. Evidence from CGR centers and partners shows that nature-based and climate resilient agriculture innovations enhance ecosystems health, carbon sequestration, water regulation, and sustainable livelihoods. Smallholder farmers, herders, pastoralists, indigenous people, women, and youth, among others, are central to these transitions, shaping socio-ecological outcomes every day. As the International Year of Rangelands in the Pastoralist begins, it's timely to record that rangelands, covering more than half of the world's land surface, are among the most vulnerable and overlooked ecosystems. CGA's work on sustainable range land management and climate smart livestock systems demonstrates that strengthening these landscapes benefits both ecosystems and the communities who rely on them. CGR stands ready to work with member states and UNEA on socio-ecological impact indicators to track progress and decision-making support tools to inform national plans and multilateral commitments. Thank you for your attention.

Thank you very much. Now, next speaker is Ms. Athena Tsanaki, Legal Officer of United Nations Division for Ocean Affairs and the Law of the Sea of the Office of Legal Affairs. You have the floor.

Madam Chair. Excellencies, distinguished delegates, ladies and gentlemen, I deliver the present statement on behalf of the Division for Ocean Affairs and the Law of the Sea of the United Nations Office of Legal Affairs, or OALOS. Our planet is witnessing unprecedented human-induced pressures. The ocean, covering nearly two-thirds of the planet, lies at the heart of these challenges and of the sustainable solutions we need for the future. Adopted in June 2023, the agreement under the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea on the conservation and sustainable use of marine biological diversity of areas beyond national jurisdiction, known as the BBNJ Agreement, was a major victory for the ocean and our planet. In September this year, a new milestone was achieved when the threshold of 60 ratifications was reached. leading the agreement to enter into force on 17 January 2026. The Secretary General of the United Nations noted that this rapid pace underscores the continued commitment of states to multilateralism. It also confirms that we can only face global challenges through collective efforts. Furthering international cooperation and coordination is a key feature of the agreement and part of its general objective. By establishing specific mechanisms for cross-sectoral cooperation to implement its various provisions, the BBNJ agreement has the potential to lead towards more integrated, holistic approaches to the management of ocean activities. Notably, the agreement can make crucial contributions to achieving the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, including Goal 14, as well as other ocean-related global goals and targets, such as those in the Cumin Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework. But these promises can only be fulfilled with enhanced cooperation as required by the agreement. Work is currently underway within the BBNJ agreement preparatory commission to lay a strong foundation for its effective implementation. The commission, which will hold its third session early next year, is considering a number of critical issues to pave the way for the decisions to be made by the conference of the parties to the agreement in that regard. The successful implementation of the BBNJ agreement will be critical to advancing sustainable solutions for a resilient planet in line with the theme of this environment assembly. The ALLOS, which serves as the interim secretariat for the agreement and assists the United Nations Legal Council in the performance of her functions as the focal point for UN Oceans, looks forward

Thank you very much. And now I invite Ms. Alena Martin, head of sustainability of the International Chamber of Commerce, to take the floor.

Madam Chair, Excellencies, distinguished delegates, colleagues, I'm honored to speak on behalf of the International Chamber of Commerce, representing 45 million businesses in over 170 countries. The theme of advancing solutions for a resilient planet resonates strongly with the global business community. Around the world, companies know that environmental resilience and economic resilience are inseparable. Investing in low carbon technologies, resource efficiency, and circular models is now central to innovation, risk management, and long-term value creation. And businesses are already deploying these solutions at scale across global value chains. But ambition alone is not enough. We need coherent, streamlined policy frameworks, clear implementation pathways, and stronger opportunities for co-creation between governments, business, and civil society. We welcome the launch of the seventh Global Environmental Outlook. Underscoring the urgency of the global environmental crisis and outlining practical pathways for transformative action. We also commend the hard work of delegates over the past two weeks to deliberate on resolutions and decisions that lie at the heart of the environmental challenges we all face, and for their commitment to collective environmental action. Multilateralism delivers best when we avoid duplication, focus on high impact work, and ensure that new mandates come with effective means of implementation. ICC stands ready to support the design of practical, economically sound, and scalable policies that accelerate environmental resilience. We will continue to mobilize business expertise, share global best practices, and promote uptake of solutions across markets, including for SMEs that are the global backbone of the economy. As this Assembly explores strategic reforms and stronger alignment across environmental bodies and conventions. We encourage approaches that reduce complexity, drive effectiveness, and empower all stakeholders to contribute meaningfully. Looking ahead, ICC will continue advancing practical action on climate, nature, pollution, and resource efficiency, guided by the shared imperative of building a more resilient planet for all. Businesses are ready delivering solutions. With coherent policies and strong cooperation, we can achieve far greater scale and impact. The world is ready.

Thank you very much. And as our last speaker, I invite Mr. Kevin Kariuki, Vice President for Power, Energy, Climate, and Green Growth of the African Development Bank. Sir, you have the floor.

Madam Chair, Excellencies, Minister, distinguished delegates, colleagues, I thank the United Nations Environmental Assembly for the opportunity extended to the African Development Bank to address the seventh session of the assembly. UNEA 7 comes at a decisive moment for our planet and indeed Africa. The environmental crisis we face, namely climate change, biodiversity loss, pollution, and land degradation, rapidly converging. The Assembly therefore provides an important opportunity to align science, policy, and finance to build a more resilient and sustainable future. In Africa's context, the continent bears the brunt of the impacts of climate shocks, while biodiversity declines threatens livelihoods and economies. At the same time, pollution undermines health as pressure on food, water, and energy systems intensify. Yet, Africa is well endowed with vast natural resources and capital that can underpin green solutions for sustainable food, water, and energy systems in the first instance. The African Development Bank is committed to unlocking this potential and looks forward to being at the forefront of efforts to actualize decisions adopted at UNEA7, to generate investments that create jobs, strengthen resilience, and protect ecosystems. In this regard, I am pleased to note that the expected outcomes of UNEA 7 strongly resonate with our new president's four cardinal points, which will inform the bank's new vision under his presidency. For example, UNEA 7's focus on stability of the financial system amid environmental degradation aligns with card number two, which calls for reforming and strengthening of African financial system and institutions. While the Assembly's agenda on crisis prevention, environmental health linkages, industrial security, and nature-positive development speaks to cardinal number four, which calls for building of climate resilient and value-added infrastructure. But ambition requires deeper partnerships and more concessional finance, predictable adaptation finance, support for nature-based solutions, and global frameworks that reflect realities. The African Development Bank will therefore work with the UNEP, member states, the GEF and GCF, and the private sector to close the implementation capacity gap and accelerate delivery. The goal being to ensure that the outcomes of UNRE7 deliver the intended tangible impacts for communities in Africa. I thank you.

Thank you very much, sir. And by this, agenda item 9 is closed. I thank all the contributors and all the delegations for participating in this agenda item, giving us an overview about where we stand throughout the globe, what are we proud of, and what are the challenges ahead of us. It was an honor to make this journey with you, and I think that we learned a lot from each other. Thank you very much once again, and I inform you that the Assembly will reconvene at 3:00 PM in this room for the closing plenary meeting. The meeting is hereby adjoined.