HIS Excellency Dr. Mohamed Irfaan Ali, President of the Co-operative Republic of Guyana, met with Dr. M. Sanjayan, President of Conservation International, to exchange views on increasing global ambition on environmental matters, particularly in the areas of climate change, forest conservation, and biodiversity protection.

The meeting took place on the margins of the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM) in Samoa.

During the meeting, President Ali provided an update on Guyana’s plans to lead the establishment of the Global Biodiversity Alliance, a significant initiative aimed at fostering international cooperation to tackle biodiversity loss.

He also discussed Guyana’s intention to host a landmark Biodiversity Summit in 2025, which will serve as a platform for advancing global efforts in conservation and biodiversity management.

Both leaders highlighted the critical role that Global South countries play in addressing these global environmental challenges. They agreed that there is an urgent need to elevate the leadership of these nations, which are often home to the world’s most crucial ecosystems, and are disproportionately affected by climate change and environmental degradation.

Guyana’s pioneering role in forest conservation, sustainable development, and climate finance, as demonstrated through its world-leading Low-Carbon Development Strategy (LCDS) and the issuance of the first carbon credits under the ART-TREES standard, was a focal point of the discussion.

President Ali reaffirmed his commitment to ensuring that Guyana remains at the forefront of global conservation efforts, while advancing economic development through sustainable practices.

He emphasised that Guyana’s approach serves as a model for how Global South countries can lead in providing solutions to pressing global environmental issues.

Dr. Sanjayan applauded Guyana’s leadership, and reiterated Conservation International’s support in building on these achievements.

At the conclusion of the meeting, President Ali expressed his appreciation for the exceptional work of the local team at Conservation International in Guyana.

He praised their deep engagement with local communities and institutions, acknowledging their vital role in supporting the success of the LCDS and conservation efforts in the country. (OP)