"(Collaboration holds significance) as these nations are most vulnerable to the effects of rising sea levels, ocean acidification, coral bleaching, ocean-borne natural disasters, overfishing, and various forms of marine pollution. We should be on the frontline to take serious action," Pandjaitan remarked while opening the second Archipelagic and Island States Forum here on Thursday.
Indonesia`s Coordinating Ministry for Maritime Affairs and the United Nations Development Program (UNDP) held the second Senior Official Meeting (SOM) for Archipelagic and Island States (AIS) on September 6-8, 2018, in Jakarta.
The meeting invited 46 archipelagic and island nations from across various regions.
The forum is intended to be a follow up to the previous meeting held last year. Singapore, Palau, Mauritius, New Zealand, Solomon Island, St. Kitss and Nevis, and the United Kingdom are among countries invited to the second SOM AIS.
Meanwhile, UNDP Country Director Christophe Bahuet noted that failure to protect oceans and address climate change will lead to catastrophic social and economic effects for people around the world.
He stated that the UNDP ocean action hub estimates the global market value of marine industries and coastal resources to be approximately US$3-6 trillion annually.
"Hence, the UNDP sees the need for strategic intervention that is innovative, effectively addresses climate change, and enhances ocean protection and economic growth with the government of Indonesia," Bahuet stated.
Editing by Eliswan
Reporter: Azis Kurmala
Editor: Fardah Assegaf
Copyright © ANTARA 2018
