Cuba and Colombia agreed to strengthen ties on environmental issues

Havana, Oct 28 (RHC) The Cuban delegation participating in the United Nations Conference on Biodiversity (COP16) agreed with representatives from the Colombian Ministry of Environment and Sustainable Development to enhance cooperation on environmental matters.

The meeting took place at the Blue Zone of the Valle del Pacífico Event Center, in Colombia, with Adianez Taboada, Deputy Minister of Science, Technology, and Environment, and her counterpart, Mauricio Cabrera, from the South American nation, presiding over the discussions.

The parties identified areas for increased collaboration, particularly in relation to national parks and protected areas programs.

Taboada referred to her country's experience in recovering areas affected by hurricanes, particularly coastal areas, and the government's response to the so-called coral disease.

She also discussed Cuba's involvement in the Caribbean Biological Corridor project, which will be presented tomorrow as part of COP16.

The official emphasized the importance of deepening cooperation on other conservation measures, where the South American country has made significant progress.

In turn, Cabrera highlighted Cuba's scientific achievements and requested support for the voluntary joint declaration on responsible mining practices to protect life and the environment and counteract the negative effects of illegal activities.

At the conclusion of the meeting, a memorandum of understanding and work program was agreed upon to strengthen relations between the two countries on environmental issues.

According to government sources, over 190 delegations and approximately 20,000 people are attending COP16, which will conclude on November 1. (Source: PL)