Armenian Minister of Environment Hambardzum Matevosyan participated in the high-level event “From Rio to Belém: Synergistic Actions for Ecosystem Restoration and Climate Resilience” held in Brazil.
In his address, Matevosyan said that COP17, which Armenia will host, could serve as a platform to unify global environmental agendas and define joint strategic guidelines on ecosystem restoration, nature-based solutions, land degradation neutrality, and climate adaptation.
The event is notable as Brazil is both the birthplace of the Rio Conventions and the future host of Climate COP30, making it a key forum for aligning international experiences and strengthening joint initiatives.
The minister emphasized Armenia's efforts to deepen cooperation between the Rio Conventions and related international environmental instruments as part of its COP17 preparations.
“Armenia views the global review of progress in implementing the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework as central to COP17, offering a tool for evidence-based policymaking, strengthened partnerships, and informed decision-making,” Matevosyan stated.
He added that Armenia has adopted a balanced and integrated approach by aligning its national biodiversity strategy with the Global Framework. This includes selecting indicators, linking actions to the national budget, and enhancing transparency at the national level.
Matevosyan also underlined the importance of complementary approaches across biodiversity, climate, land, plastics, chemicals, and waste management. These synergies, he noted, help accelerate implementation, build capacity in developing countries, and ensure inclusion of indigenous peoples and local communities.
He concluded by noting that in 2026, when all three Rio Conventions will hold their respective COPs, there will be a unique opportunity to harmonize global environmental policy and deliver joint messages.
The UN Biodiversity Convention’s COP17 summit will take place in Yerevan in October 2026.
