Belize has taken over the 6-month presidency of the Central American Commission of the Environment and Development (C-CAD).
CCAD's primary mission is to develop plans to improve regional environmental cooperation and integration.
This morning, Orlando Habet, the Minister of Sustainable Development, Climate Change, and Disaster Risk, officially assumed the Pro Tempore Presidency of CCAD.
Here's an excerpt of his key-note address when he took over leadership of the organization:
Orlando Habet, Incoming Pro Tempore President, CCAD
"It is a pleasure for me to be addressing you in this very important occasion as the Ministry of Sustainable Development, Climate Change and Disaster Risk Management. Belize is assuming the pro tempore residency of the Central American Commission of the Environment and Development (CCAD) for the period 1 January to 31 June 2023. At the ministry we have developed a very ambitious plan of priorities to complement those activities not yet completed. That were started during the presidency of the Dominican Republic. Guided by the national priorities of the Government of Belize, and leading the different technical committees and working groups with the support of the CCAD secretariat. We intend to work towards further strengthening the CCAD. Implementing activities that promote a regional approach, to improving our environmental stewardship and enhance development. We aim to bolster CCAD-CARICOM integration on issue related to the environment and climate. To align and execute the strategies of both sub regions and enhance our bargaining power at international forums. For instance, as we seek to elaborate the framework for loss and damage fund, Belize will seek to leverage positions of the DR and Barbados. That is, that of the two sub regions to advance joint regional interests. We will also seek to strengthen the climate finance agenda, to advocate for much needed financing required to build climate resilience in the CCAD and CARICOM regions. We endeavour to push for the development of a CCAD sustainability plan as a road map for achieving long term goals and strategies. To continue and expand the programs, activities and partnerships and to promote and increase capacity, climate change and environmental training. And exchange the expertise and experiences. We intend to promote CCAD's contribution to Belize and the region and seek regional support for a Belize-Guatemala fresh water transboundary agreement to improve biodiversity conservation of the Mopan and Macal river water sheds."
Habet will serve as the Pro Tem President from January 1 to June 30, 2023.
