Officials, NGOs gather in Mexico to discuss biodiversity protection

A number of officials from countries across the globe, as well as representatives of non-governmental organizations (NGOs) gathered in Mexico to discuss sustainable ways to protect biodiversity in the Americas.

Many countries and organizations are seeking consensus on how to jointly tackle the issues facing Earth's future. In Mexico City, one event sought to set the tone for what will be an important year for Latin America on the subject

The International Union for the Conservation of Nature or IUCN, held the Regional Conservation Forum from April 16 to 19 in Mexico City. In Chapultepec Park, one of the largest urban green spaces in Latin America, governments, NGOs and indigenous groups gathered for the Conservation Forum for Mexico, Central America and the Caribbean.

Latin American countries are taking a leading role in the preservation of biodiversity, and the work at the IUCN forum is considered critical ahead of the COP16 UN Biodiversity Conference that will take place in Colombia in fall season. Global organizations and leaders will seek consensus on new commitments to achieving mutual goals.

"Despite the planetary crisis that we are experiencing today, we firmly believe that human beings are capable of change and that is why more than 100 organizations are here looking at how we can alter our conduct to achieve a planet where we can all live in peace and benefit from the natural resources on which we depend," said Grethel Aguilar, the Director General of IUCN, during an interview with China Global Television Network (CGTN).

However, as delegates discuss the issues in this idyllic setting, their task will be to bring these messages back to their countries and put forward concrete actions.

Biologist Roberto Romero has worked intensively throughout the region to create environmental consciousness, and is now pushing ahead with policy recommendations.

"We are seeking to create policy recommendations that the whole region can agree upon to ensure that the voices of civil society around the planet are heard at levels of government, and that policy decisions are implemented which help the situation," said the biologist.

China has taken a leading role when it comes to global biodiversity preservation, as the country's Environment Minister told CGTN during the sixth session of the United Nations Environment Assembly (UNEA-6) earlier this year.

China's Minister of Ecology and Environment Huang Runqiu highlighted the important role of environmental multilateralism, which involves nations working together to help forge a sustainable future.

"We are ready to join hands with all parties to lead them and their stakeholders in the comprehensive and effective implementation of the framework, promote the restoration of global biodiversity and to build a global home where human beings and nature can coexist in harmony," Huang said.

With the tone set in Mexico City, 2024 will be an important year globally for the issue of biodiversity.

Officials, NGOs gather in Mexico to discuss biodiversity protection

On his second official visit to China, Prime Minister of the Republic of Vanuatu Charlot Salwai expressed admiration for China's remarkable ability to balance preserving its cultural heritage with embracing innovative transformation.

Salwai paid an official visit to China from July 7 to 12. During his trip, he toured the southern province of Guangdong and explored the megacities of Beijing and Shanghai. His visit included tours of high-tech companies, a ride on a high-speed train, and a performance of traditional Cantonese opera.

In an interview with China Central Television Network (CCTV) aired on Friday, Salwai recounted his journey starting with a warm welcome that included enjoying Beijing Roast Duck, also known as Peking Duck -- a culinary delight introduced to him by the Chinese ambassador in Vanuatu.

"Many had to say. Peking Duck. Because we had it here on our arrival, so it was very tasty. And I understand that the Chinese ambassador in Vanuatu brought us to one of the traditional restaurants, small but beautiful," he said. The prime minister sees China's preservation of its culture as a vital lesson in understanding one's roots and the journey to the present day, acknowledging China's efforts to integrate cultural preservation with modernization.

"It's going to be my second official visit to China. I'm always impressed to see big changes and especially innovations made by China and especially the cities. Because a big impression is to see how China continues to maintain and keep its culture. Because I think it's the basis of everything -- to know where you come from and to understand where we are today. I feel that China is doing a lot to maintain its culture, but at the same time, doing, innovating to transform its culture,” Salwai said.

He also emphasized the importance of learning from China's sustainable development strategies.

"Today, it comes from a long way, some hardship, the government, and also the people of China. So, I'm impressed to see what is done, especially how China associates infrastructure development with nature. That's meant to keep, continue to keep the environment. It takes effort with the climate change by maintaining the ecosystem. I think it's something that, for a small country like Vanuatu, is important to learn. So, we are here. I'm here with my delegation to learn," Salwai said.

Vanuatu's PM commends China's cultural preservation, innovation amid fast growth