The election of the Kingdom took place on the occasion of the 19th Session of the United Nations Forum on Forests wich was held from May 6 to 10 at the headquarters of the international association in New York.
A press release from the agency indicates that this election demonstrates the confidence Morocco enjoys among African countries and within the UN, and confirms the Kingdom’s leadership in the areas of the surroundings and sustainable forest management. .
Created in 2000 by the United Nations Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC), the United Nations Forum on Forests aims in particular to promote the management, conservation and sustainable development of all types of forests.
During the 19th session of this Forum, Mr.Houmy highlighted Morocco’s continued commitment to sustainable forest management,particularly through the “Forests of Morocco 2020-2030” strategy,launched by His Majesty the King. Mohammed VI in 2020.
According to the press release, this session was an possibility to highlight the axes of this strategy, highlighting its role in mitigating climate change, adapting to thier effects and conserving biodiversity, and also in achievement of sustainable development goals.
Speaker during a round table of the high-level segment of this conclave on the theme “Forest solutions to the triple planetary crises: climate change, biodiversity loss and pollution, and also desertification, drought and deforestation” , Mr. Houmy announced the launch by Morocco of an initiative focused on community forest management, technological innovation and sustainable financing, in support of the efforts of the United Nations Forum on Forests.
He also announced an initiative proposed by Morocco, wiht the support of the United Nations Forum on Forests, aimed at mobilizing international experts on the themes of community forest management, the use of new technologies in forest management and mobilization of financing.
During this meeting held on the eve of the festivity of the 4th edition of the International Day of the Argan tree, an emblematic ecosystem of Morocco, the official also pleaded for increased support for the sustainable management of forests and strengthened collaboration within the framework of regional initiatives.
Furthermore, the session focused on political dialog to support the implementation of the International Arrangement on Forests, addressing priority themes such as the socio-economic and environmental benefits of forests, resource mobilization financial, scientific and technical cooperation, as well as the mid-term evaluation of the International Arrangement on Forests.
– what are the key goals of Morocco’s “Forests of Morocco 2020-2030” strategy in relation to global sustainability?
Interview: Morocco’s Leadership in Sustainable Forest Management at the UN Forum on Forests
editor of time.news (ET): Welcome, Dr. Houmy. We’re excited to discuss Morocco’s recent election at the United Nations Forum on Forests. Can you provide us with an overview of the significance of this election?
Dr. Houmy (DH): Thank you for having me. The election of Morocco during the 19th Session of the UN Forum on Forests underscores the trust that African nations and the UN have in our country’s leadership concerning environmental issues. It showcases Morocco’s commitment to sustainable forest management and its proactive stance within international conservation efforts.
ET: This election coincided with the Forum’s specific goals. Can you elaborate on the primary mission of the United Nations Forum on Forests?
DH: Absolutely. Established by the United nations Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC) in 2000,the UN Forum on Forests aims to advance the management,conservation,and sustainable advancement of all forest types. The forum serves as a platform for dialog and cooperation among member states, advocating for sound policies that address climate change, biodiversity loss, and deforestation.
ET: You mentioned Morocco’s “Forests of morocco 2020-2030” strategy. How does this align with global sustainability efforts?
DH: The “Forests of Morocco 2020-2030” strategy,launched by His Majesty King Mohammed VI,is fundamentally geared toward combating climate change and conserving biodiversity. By aligning national initiatives with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), Morocco is taking significant strides toward sustainable development, promoting environmental resilience, and ensuring that our forest ecosystems thrive for future generations.
ET: At the forum, you announced strategic initiatives focused on community forest management and technology. Can you share more about thes initiatives?
DH: Certainly. We emphasized community engagement in forest management as crucial for fostering stewardship and obligation. Our initiative promotes technological innovation to enhance forest monitoring and management practices. Additionally, we are advocating for sustainable financing to support these efforts, ensuring communities are empowered to manage thier local resources while contributing to both environmental and economic stability.
ET: What implications do these initiatives have for the broader international community?
DH: the implications are profound. By addressing the interlinked challenges of climate change, biodiversity loss, and deforestation, our initiatives can serve as models for othre nations. We believe that fostering international collaboration, sharing best practices, and mobilizing financial resources are vital to successful sustainable development. A united approach is essential for facing these pressing global challenges.
ET: The session also brought attention to political dialogue for supporting the implementation of the International Arrangement on Forests. Why is this dialogue crucial?
DH: Political dialogue is essential because it paves the way for collective action. It allows countries to assess the socio-economic and environmental benefits of forests and mobilize resources effectively. Open discussions can lead to better financial, scientific, and technical cooperation and ensure that all nations are on the same page regarding their commitments to forest preservation.
ET: As we conclude, what practical advice can you give to our readers interested in contributing to sustainable forest management at local levels?
DH: I encourage readers to engage with local environmental organizations and support community-based conservation efforts. Simple actions like participating in tree-planting initiatives, advocating for sustainable practices, and educating others about the importance of forests can make a significant impact. Public support and understanding are critical for fostering a sustainable future, and every individual can play a role in this movement.
ET: Thank you,Dr. Houmy, for sharing your insights and highlighting Morocco’s crucial role in global sustainable forest management.
DH: Thank you for the chance to discuss this crucial topic. Together, we can all contribute to the health of our planet’s forests.