Foreign Affairs Minister Justin Tkatchenko in his statement at the 4th Archipelagic Islands State (AIS) Ministerial Meeting in Bali, Indonesia, said Oceans play an important role in addressing climate change.
Minister Tkatchenko said Papua New Guinea will work together with all the Island nations in the Pacific Region to maintain and sustain the reefs and the ocean for the future generation.
“PNG therefore, fully supports the theme for the 4th AIS Ministerial Forum to elevate collaboration to achieve sustainable and healthy oceans.”
“Oceans and Islands are an integral part of our countries, our oceans are key to our livelihood, our economies, our cultural heritage and environment.”
“Oceans produce more oxygen and take in more carbon dioxide than most of the rain forests throughout the world and oceans are like big filters and when they are polluted or not looked after properly it affects the world’s climate,” said Tkatchenko.
Minister Tkatchenko said the summit was all about island countries protecting their oceans.
He added that this meeting is all about governments working together, taking leadership and putting in place laws, regulations and new ideas to help protect the oceans from continually being polluted and to be looked after.
Minister Tkatchenko said while PNG supports the initiative to protect oceans, the political will at the highest level is paramount in addressing these climate change issues.
A total of 19 Island states attending the meeting concluded with official signing communiqué for all countries to work together in cutting down ocean pollution.
