Armenia’s Deputy Foreign Minister Robert Abisogomonyan used the final meeting of the 32nd OSCE Economic and Environmental Forum in Prague to present the main priorities of Armenia’s presidency ahead of the 17th Conference of the Parties to the Convention on Biological Diversity, COP17.
According to the Armenian Foreign Ministry, he highlighted the complementary roles of science and diplomacy in tackling global environmental challenges. He said scientific data and expert knowledge are essential for policymaking and decision-making aimed at preserving biodiversity. They also help assess existing and emerging risks more thoroughly, anticipate them and develop effective response measures.
Speaking about preparations for COP17, Abisogomonyan said the Armenian presidency has adopted an inclusive approach. That model is meant to ensure meaningful participation by governments, international organizations, scientific and academic communities, civil society, young people, women, indigenous peoples and local communities, as well as the private sector.
He also outlined the events planned for COP17, which will be held in Yerevan in October. Among them is a leaders’ summit titled “Leaders for Nature”, which is expected to conclude with the adoption of a political declaration, the “Yerevan Call to Action”. The declaration is intended to reaffirm the central role of biodiversity in sustainable development, food security, climate resilience and well-being.
The diplomat also stressed the importance of the First global review of collective progress in implementing the goals and targets of the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework. He said the review would provide an opportunity to assess progress made so far, identify remaining gaps and point to the areas where stronger efforts are needed.
Abisogomonyan further referred to Armenia’s initiatives under COP17, including expanding positive environmental incentives, encouraging the exchange of experience on effective conservation measures, developing biodiversity monitoring systems using new technologies, and strengthening international cooperation to protect mountain and freshwater ecosystems.
He concluded by reaffirming Armenia’s readiness to continue working with OSCE participating states and international partners to secure ambitious, forward-looking and practical outcomes from COP17 in Yerevan.
