DILI, 31 may 2024 (TATOLI) – The Prime Minister, Xanana Gusmão, announced government committmet to establish a Marine Park in Atauro to promote the country’s blue economy.
The announcement was made at the session at the UN 2024 SIDS Conference which took place between 27 and 30 may in Antigua and Barbuda.
‘The initiative that Timor-Leste wishes to announce publicly at this conference is that we want to accelerate sustainable economic development with the creation of a Marine Park on the island of Ataúro,’ said Xanana Gusmão in a statement.
He said that the park will serve to conserve the island’s marine environment and build a sustainable blue economy.
“Ataúro Island will become a center for scientific research and marine conservation. We are also committed to doing everything in our power to protect at least 70 percent of the coastal zone,’ he added.
Gusmão said that Timor-Leste needs scientific research and studies into biodiversity, the development of infrastructure to protect tropical reefs, and the development of structures for the governance of a blue economy: “We can’t do it alone. We need international cooperation and partnerships.”
Prime Minister hoped that the development of the blue economy in Timor-Leste would be a model of sustainable development for other island states.
Journalist: Camilio de Sousa
Editor: Filomeno Martins
