ECONOMY NEXT – Sri Lanka is committed to supporting regional efforts in climate change mitigation and adaptation and will strengthen its meteorological agency, the President said.
“The economic impact of climate change could be up to 2% of potential GDP in low-income countries,” Ranil Wickremesinghe said at the South Asia Hydropower Forum (SAHF) IV on Tuesday (6th), according to a statement from the media. This could lead to losses.” Split.
This forum aims to foster discussion and cooperation on hydrology and meteorology related initiatives in South Asia. SAHF connects National Meteorological and Hydrological Service Providers (NMHS) in the region to facilitate the exchange of data and knowledge.
Mr. Wickremesinghe pointed to the need for a comprehensive Hydromet regional network to effectively address climate change-related challenges, particularly in South Asia, where the negative impacts are mainly felt. The island has recently been plagued by heavy rains, resulting in landslides and flooding.
Wickremesinghe said at the forum that the country plans to establish an international climate change university aimed at offering graduate programs similar to those offered by institutions like the East-West Center in Hawaii. Told.
He reiterated the proposal to create a tropical belt as a carbon sink discussed at COP 28 in Dubai, and said it was important to encourage private sector investment in such efforts.
“Traditional aid sources may not be enough, but attracting private sector investment can have significant benefits for all involved,” he was quoted as saying.
The forum was convened by South Asia Hydrological Forum (SAHF) Co-Chairman Karma Dhupchu, Director of the National Hydrometeorological Center of Bhutan, Dina Umali-Deininger, Regional Director for South Asia, World Bank (WB), and Andrew Patrick, High Commissioner of the United Kingdom. did. (Colombo/February 6, 2024)
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