The Third High Level Europe-Central Asia Conference on the “Platform for Cooperation on the Environment and Water Resources” will be taking place today at the Foreign Ministry in Rome. The conference represents a new stage in Italy’s policy for Central Asia, which was boosted in spring 2009 by Secretary of State Mantica’s mission to the region’s capitals.
The choice of Rome to host this meeting sets the seal on the leading role Italy plays in the European Union’s strategy for Central Asia, in which our country acts a Coordinator for the delicate “Environment and Water Resources ” pillar. The decision to hold the meeting here also testifies to the renewed Italian interest in Central Asia.
Climate change, environmental and water resource governance are the issues on the Conference agenda. The event will be opened by the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs, Senator Alfredo Mantica, and co-chaired by the Secretary of State for the Environment, the Hon. Roberto Menia. Also taking part will be representatives of the countries of the European Union and Central Asia, the European Commission, International Organisations and NGOs, and the EU Special Envoy Representative for Central Asia, Ambassador Pierre Morel.
Italy will introduce the discussion on climate change with a concept paper on regional cooperation focusing on the implementation of the Kyoto mechanisms and measures to adapt to the extreme weather conditions typical of Central Asia.
On the subject of water, the aim is to further strengthen cooperation between the European Union and the countries of Central Asia as part of the EU Water Initiative. The Conference will also provide an opportunity to introduce and discuss environmental projects in Central Asia supported by the European Commission.