The Minister for the Environment, the Hon Greg Hunt MP today announced that Brunei Darussalam will host the second Asia-Pacific Rainforest Summit, from 3 to 5 August 2016.
Following the successful Asia-Pacific Rainforest Summit held in Sydney in November 2014, the Australian Government has been leading efforts in the region to conserve, halt and reverse rainforest loss.
The Brunei Minister of Primary Resources and Tourism, Dato Ali Apong, will be the host for the summit.
Brunei is an ideal location for the next Summit and it provides a great opportunity to showcase its work in forest conservation and in the protection of its biodiversity.
Themes for the 2016 Summit include: Biodiversity integration; Towards a green economy; Reducing biodiversity loss from illegal logging; and Sustainable Climate Finance.
Speaking from the Global Landscapes Forum in Paris, Minister Hunt said “We are looking forward to working with Brunei as the hosts of the 2016 summit, and to further develop the Asia-Pacific Rainforest Recovery Plan.
“It is also an opportunity for Brunei to give the world a glimpse of their beautiful and well-preserved forests, their biodiversity and their plans for the future in preserving their landscapes not only today but for future generations”.
“The Asia-Pacific Rainforest Recovery Plan represents a new way for us to engage with international experts, donors and financial institutions to protect our rainforests.”
“We are excited to be working with Brunei on the Recovery Plan and look forward to continuing our relationship in the lead up to their hosting of the summit in August 2016,” said Minister Hunt.
(ENDS)