Egypt's Minister of Environment joins COP16 biodiversity conference in Colombia

CAIRO – 28 October 2024: Egypt has reaffirmed its commitment to global biodiversity conservation by participating in the high-level segment of the 16th Conference of the Parties (COP16) to the United Nations Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD) in Colombia. Minister of Environment Yasmine Fouad led the Egyptian delegation, emphasizing the country's role in driving forward the implementation of the Global Biodiversity Framework.

Minister Fouad called for ambitious action to address the biodiversity crisis, highlighting the importance of protecting 30% of the planet's land and oceans by 2030. She also stressed the need for increased financial resources and capacity-building to support developing countries in their efforts to conserve biodiversity.

Egypt has been a leading advocate for integrating the three Rio Conventions—climate change, desertification, and biodiversity—and has played a key role in launching the Global Biodiversity Framework Fund. Minister Fouad emphasized the importance of building on this momentum to create a more sustainable future for the planet.

During her visit to Colombia, Minister Fouad participated in several high-level events, including ministerial dialogues on the implementation of the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework and the link between climate change and biodiversity. She also co-chaired a meeting with key stakeholders to discuss nature-based solutions and strengthen cooperation on biodiversity conservation.

Egypt's active participation in COP16 demonstrates the country's commitment to global environmental leadership and its determination to address the urgent challenges facing biodiversity. By working with partners around the world, Egypt is helping to build a more sustainable future for all.