Cienaga de Zapata, November 9(RHC)-- Cuba's Matanzas province is hosting the 11th International Wetlands 2017 Symposium, which focuses on climate change and its impact on the Caribbean region, particularly coastal areas and ecosystems.

The event, which runs through Friday, is being attended by experts from 7, mostly regional countries. Other issues under discussion include early warning systems, preservation of coastal wetlands and water resources management.

Addressing delegates, the Director for Water Basins with Cuba's National Water Resources Institute (INRH), Jorge Mario Garcia, said that the 2016-2017 period was important to achieve comprehensive management of water resources in the country.

The Cuban expert added that the models signal a reduction of the annual rainfall in Cuba for the 2015-2100 period, with a subsequent less availability of water. He urged the introduction of new technology and the adoption of new policies and methods toward a more efficient use of water resources and the reduction of vulnerabilities to climate-related events.