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President Dr Mohamed Irfaan Ali has called on climate experts to come up with real solutions to global finance problems. He said that economic development and protecting forests can go hand in hand.
He made these comments while speaking at the first full meeting of the Forest and Climate Leaders’ Partnership (FCLP), held in Guyana. The FCLP was started in 2022 and includes 32 countries with large forest areas. These nations are working together to push for better climate financing that supports growth.
Guyana and the United Kingdom are leading the group at the moment.
President Ali said that climate change is not getting the attention it deserves in the media, which is often focused on wars and political deals. He praised those working to keep climate issues in the spotlight.
“I want to thank all of you for fighting back and keeping people focused on these important topics,” he said.
Ali reminded the group that Guyana’s economy is growing fast, but it is still working hard to protect its forests. He said development and conservation don’t have to clash. “Our message is simple – you can have both prosperity and forest protection,” he said, adding that Guyana’s 15-year journey has shown what works.
Calling himself the “Forest Man,” the president asked FCLP members to create real plans that bring in the money countries need to protect their forests. He said forests should be treated as part of national growth plans, not just environmental projects.
Guyana’s Minister of Natural Resources, Vickram Bharrat, also spoke. He said saving forests is something that everyone should care about. “This is everyone’s business,” he said, urging unity.
UK High Commissioner Jane Miller praised Guyana for its strong efforts and encouraged other countries to follow its example.
Guyana has been a leader in forest protection. Its Low Carbon Development Strategy 2030 has brought real results. In 2022, Guyana became the first country to issue ART-TREES carbon credits, totaling 33.4 million. So far, it has sold about 30% of those credits, making at least US$750 million in a deal with Hess Corporation.
Source: Guyana PIS.
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