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David Songulashvili delivered a keynote address at the UN High-Level Conference in Nice, France.
The UN High-Level Conference brought together leaders, Environment Ministers, and senior officials from over 100 countries to discuss pressing global environmental challenges, including climate change, biodiversity conservation, pollution prevention, and the protection of marine and coastal ecosystems.
During the conference, the parties emphasized the impact of climate change on the marine environment and the need for a coordinated international response.
In his address, Minister Songulashvili presented Georgia’s Sustainable Development Agenda, with a particular focus on the efforts to safeguard the Black Sea and its ecosystem.
“Environmental protection has been declared as one of the top priorities of the Georgian Government. We are implementing comprehensive environmental policies and aligning our legislation with EU standards following the EU-Georgia Association Agreement and the Association Agenda. Furthermore, the Black Sea is not only an economic asset but also a maritime gateway to the global community.
Georgia continues regional cooperation with international partners in scientific research, sustainable waste management, plastic pollution prevention, and biodiversity conservation.
Our country is making active efforts to protect its rich marine ecosystem; 155 square kilometers of its marine territory have already been designated as protected areas, safeguarding our outstanding biodiversity and the Emerald Network. Over 23% of Georgia’s territory is currently protected through national parks and the Emerald Network, with plans to expand this figure to 30% by 2030 in line with international commitments.
I would also like to note that the Kolkheti National Park, which includes the country's first marine protected area, has been included in the UNESCO World Heritage List,” stated the Minister of Environmental Protection and Agriculture.
As part of the conference, Minister Songulashvili held bilateral meetings with Heads of Environmental Agencies from various countries and representatives of partner international organizations. The discussions focused on enhancing joint initiatives and exploring future avenues for cooperation.
Notably, all 193 member states of the United Nations have agreed to set the 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), whereby Goal 14 focuses on conserving and sustainably using oceans, seas, and marine resources.
The First Deputy Minister, Mrs. Nino Tandilashvili, accompanied the Minister Songulashvili at the High-level UN Conference.