Kyrgyzstan's delegation, led by the Special Presidential Representative on Mountain Agenda, Dinaara Kemelova, took part in the 17th Conference of the Parties (COP17) to the Convention on Biological Diversity in Yerevan. The conference brought together representatives from 196 countries, with an expected attendance of 15,000 people.
Advancing Mountain Conservation Initiatives
During the events held on October 26th, organized by UNEP, FAO, and the Mountain Partnership, discussions focused on preserving mountain biodiversity, ecosystem restoration, and mobilizing necessary funding. The participation included representatives from mountain countries, international organizations, and the scientific community.
- The focus was placed on international initiatives previously announced by the President of Kyrgyzstan during the COP17 leaders' summit.
- These initiatives include establishing a special mountain program within the Global Environment Facility.
- Another key proposal is the establishment of a Global Centre for Mountain Sustainability in Bishkek.
- Additionally, there was discussion on creating a trust fund under UN auspices for the preservation of Lake Issyk-Kul.
Call for Action and Future Cooperation
Speaking at the closing session, Dinaara Kemelova stressed the necessity of moving beyond international commitments toward tangible, practical measures for safeguarding mountain ecosystems. She also highlighted several mountain initiatives and invited participation in the Second Global Mountain Summit "Bishkek+25".
The Second Global Mountain Summit "Bishkek+25" is scheduled to take place in Kyrgyzstan from October 21 to 23, 2027. Furthermore, the launch of the Yerevan Platform for Mountains and Associated Freshwater Ecosystems was noted as a new international effort aimed at uniting mountain nations for protection and cooperation.
Key Takeaways
- Dinaara Kemelova emphasized the shift from international obligations to concrete practical measures for mountain ecosystem preservation.
- Kyrgyzstan promoted the creation of a Global Centre for Mountain Sustainability and a fund for Lake Issyk-Kul.
- The Second Global Mountain Summit "Bishkek+25" is set for October 21–23, 2027, in Bishkek.
