As a step towards global environmental preservation, El Salvador made its mark at the Seventh Assembly of the Global Environment Facility (GEF), held in Vancouver, Canada. The event marked the launch of the groundbreaking Global Biodiversity Framework Fund, a much-needed source of funding aimed at safeguarding endangered species and their ecosystems.
Fernando López, the Minister of Environment and Natural Resources, represented El Salvador at the assembly and assumed the role of President Pro Tempore of the Central American Commission for Environment and Development (CCAD). This marked the country’s active participation in addressing pressing environmental concerns on an international platform.
During the assembly, Minister López engaged in a productive discussion with Ahmed Hussen, Canada’s Minister of International Development, to exchange ideas on matters of mutual interest. López highlighted El Salvador’s achievements in renewable energy and biodiversity, emphasizing the importance of forging strategic alliances with partner countries to enhance national capacities.
Participating in plenary sessions, high-level working meetings with strategic partners and collaborators, and parallel events to share insights with other nations, Minister López demonstrated El Salvador’s commitment to global environmental collaboration.
The assembly, organized every four years by the Global Environment Facility (GEF), coordinates international funding efforts to combat climate change, biodiversity loss, pollution, and the strains on Earth’s health and oceans. With participation from 185 countries, including ministers, government officials, business leaders, environmentalists, international agency representatives, and indigenous and youth groups, the assembly serves as a platform to discuss solutions for ensuring a healthy planet with healthy people.
One of the assembly’s standout accomplishments was the unveiling of the Global Biodiversity Framework Fund. This fund aims to provide critical financing for the protection of endangered species and their fragile ecosystems, addressing a vital aspect of global conservation efforts.
As the assembly concluded, Minister López expressed optimism for the future. He highlighted that collaborations forged at events like the GEF assembly are essential for creating a sustainable and resilient future for both El Salvador and the world at large. The launch of the Global Biodiversity Framework Fund is a testament to the international community’s dedication to preserving the planet’s rich biological diversity and ensuring a harmonious coexistence between humanity and nature.