Myanmar Takes Center Stage at ASEAN Environment Ministers’ Meeting: Bold Steps Towards Climate Action and Sustainability

The Myanmar delegation, led by Deputy Minister U Min Thu, participated in the 18th ASEAN Ministerial Meeting on the Environment from September 2 to 4. This hybrid event was hosted by Malaysia and featured several important discussions.

Notably, the meetings included dialogues with the European Union and Japan, where ministers explored actions to tackle environmental issues and climate change. They discussed plans to end plastic pollution and develop joint strategies for climate adaptation.

During the ASEAN-EU dialogue, co-chaired by Malaysia’s Acting Minister of Natural Resources and Environment, Mr. Johari Abdul Ghani, and European Commission representatives, participants focused on urgent environmental challenges. They planned cooperation on carbon markets and laid out a work program for 2025-2026.

At the ASEAN-Japan dialogue, discussions revolved around the ASEAN Strategic Plan on Environment (SPACE). Both sides assessed progress and mapped out future collaborations, culminating in a joint statement.

The ASEAN Plus Three meeting, which included ministers from Japan, South Korea, and China, highlighted the need for initiatives against marine plastic pollution. They also reviewed the ASEAN-China Environmental Cooperation Strategy and looked ahead to upcoming frameworks and programs for 2026-2030.

The meetings concluded with a discussion with Ambassador André Aranha Corrêa do Lago of Brazil, the Chair of UNFCCC COP 30, where ministers exchanged insights on future global climate negotiations.

These discussions reflect ongoing efforts to combat climate change and promote sustainability in the region. Recent statistics show a rising trend in environmental awareness among ASEAN countries, with over 70% now prioritizing sustainable practices in governmental policies. As environmental concerns grow globally, initiatives from meetings like these play a crucial role in shaping the future.

For further reading on environmental cooperation in Southeast Asia, visit the ASEAN website.

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