Sri Lanka has highlighted the need to strengthen drought preparedness and resilience before drought conditions develop into a crisis, calling for increased international support for developing countries.
Environment Minister Dr. Dammika Patabendi made the call while participating in a High-Level Ministerial Dialogue on “Water and Drought Resilience” at the UNCCD COP17 in Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia, yesterday (25).
He said developing countries require greater access to climate information, early-warning systems, technology, capacity development and adequate and predictable financial resources to prepare for increasing drought risks.
The Minister emphasized that climate change is increasing the need for countries to strengthen long-term preparedness and resilience rather than responding only after droughts have become severe.
He reiterated Sri Lanka’s commitment to strengthening land degradation neutrality, sustainable land management and drought resilience through a people-centred and collaborative approach.
Minister Patabendi also highlighted Sri Lanka’s integrated efforts to address land, water, climate and biodiversity challenges, including the restoration of traditional tank villages, the “Vanaspathi” national forest conservation programme and the protection of wetlands.
He reaffirmed Sri Lanka’s willingness to work with the UNCCD, regional partners and the wider international community to strengthen global efforts on land restoration, water security and drought resilience.
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