The 18th session of the UN Forum on Forests has commenced in New York, proving to be a highly productive gathering, with the discussions focused on the strides made in implementing the UN Strategic Plan on Forests from 2017-2030. Additionally, the event included a review of preparations for the upcoming mid-term assessment in 2024, which will be conducted following the International Arrangement on Forests entering into force.
One notable highlight from the meeting was the joint side event, organized by the Uzbek chairmanship in partnership with the World Bank, FAO, UNECE, the Canadian Forest Service, and the Czech Forest Management Institute. The event drew over 100 representatives from UN member countries and heads of administrative and scientific circles in forest management, alongside international DNAs.
At the event, Uzbekistan's Minister of Natural Resources, Aziz Abdukhakimov, shared some news about the progress the Central Asian country has made in ecology and environmental protection. Among the highlights was the success of the large-scale landscaping campaign, "Yashil Makon," which has positively impacted the environment.
The Minister also noted the impressive forest planting efforts on the drained floor of the Aral Sea and the increase in protected natural areas from 4% in 2016 to 14% today.
On her turn, Paola Agostini, Director of the World Bank's Regional Department for Natural Resources, shared details about a new reforestation project in Uzbekistan worth $142mn.
In conclusion, attendees were cordially invited to participate in several United Nations gatherings, including the 21st executive body meeting of the Convention to Combat Desertification (UNCCD CRIC 21), the 25th session of the General Assembly of the World Tourism Organization (UNWTO), and the 14th Conference of the Parties to the Convention on the Conservation of Migratory Species of Wild Animals (CMS COP-14), all of which are scheduled to take place in the city of Samarkand upcoming October.
The 18th session of the UN Forum on Forests is set to conclude today, May 12.
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