Delivering Sri Lanka’s national statement at the plenary session, the Secretary highlighted the country’s rich biodiversity and the growing challenges posed by climate change impacts, including floods, droughts, landslides, coastal erosion, and environmental pollution.
He also acknowledged the support received through GEF-funded initiatives in Sri Lanka, particularly in biodiversity conservation, climate action, ecosystem restoration, renewable energy promotion, and strengthening community resilience.
Outlining Sri Lanka’s priorities for the upcoming GEF-9 programming cycle, the Secretary emphasized the protection of forests, wetlands, mangroves, and watersheds, along with the promotion of nature-based solutions, climate-resilient agriculture and fisheries, and sustainable land management. He further stressed the importance of integrated approaches addressing biodiversity loss, climate change, water, land, and pollution challenges.
During the assembly, Secretary Uduwawala also participated in expert discussions titled “Accelerating Delivery for Environmental Outcomes” and “How Can the GEF Leverage the Conventions and Its Family of Funds to Deliver on the 2030 Goals,” where participants exchanged views on improving environmental investment outcomes, strengthening implementation of global environmental agreements, and enhancing international cooperation.
