Maldives and the South Asia Cooperative Environment Programme (SACEP) on Monday explored avenues to increased regional cooperation for environmental protection in the region.
The discussions were held between the Minister of Tourism and Environment, Thoriq Ibrahim and the visiting Director General of SACEP, Norbu Wangchuk.
According to the Ministry of Tourism and Environment, the Minister and the Director General discussed the potential for environmental protection at the regional level and avenues in which it can be further strengthened.
Discussions also centered around possible actions on climate change and the importance of enhancing regional cooperation to facilitate sustainable development, the Ministry said.
During the meeting, Minister Thoriq stressed on the importance of further strengthening of environmental cooperation among the countries of the South Asian region adding that it is vital that all countries work together to address the environmental challenges facing the region.
SACEP Director General Wangchuk noted the leading role Maldives plays in the environmental protection in the region. He expressed the desire to enhance cooperation with the Maldives towards the endeavour in the future.
The Ministry said that such meetings with regional countries and organisations will further strengthen bilateral and multilateral relations and enhance efforts to protect the environment in the region.