Launch a dedicated program to support tropical countries to address climate change challenges – President

President Ranil Wickremesinghe emphasized that the world’s most bio-diverse regions are found in tropical countries and he proposed the launch of a dedicated program to support these nations in addressing future climate change challenges.

He highlighted that 80% of the world’s endemic plants, as well as 50% of all coral reefs and mangroves are located in tropical regions. Sri Lanka, he noted, is actively working towards the establishment of an international university focused on climate change, capitalizing on this unique ecological context.

President Ranil Wickremesinghe made these remarks during his address at the high-level conference “Green silk road for harmony with nature” held at the China International Conference Hall on Wednesday (18), in conjunction with the 3rd “Belt and Road Initiative” International forum.

The conference was chaired by  Han Zheng, Vice President of the People’s Republic of China. The United Nations Secretary-General, Antonio Guterres and leaders from other participating countries also shared their insights.