Thailand and UNEP Advance Ocean and Environment Partnership

Thailand's Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment and the United Nations Environment Programme held discussions on August 19 to advance their long-standing partnership in environmental conservation, sustainable development, and marine and coastal resource protection. Natural Resources Minister Suchart Chomklin, alongside Permanent Secretary Raviwarn Phuredeach and senior ministry officials, met with UNEP representatives at the ministry's 20th-floor conference room to discuss escalating cooperation at country, regional, and global levels.

Min Chomklin stated that the meeting was an important opportunity to exchange views and establish concrete pathways for enhanced cooperation. He thanked UNEP for continuous collaboration, particularly under the COBSEA framework and support for international resource mobilization, including funding from the Global Environment Facility (GEF) for environmental projects at both regional and national levels.

Min Chomklin also praised UNEP's Champions of the Earth awards, noting that this year's focus on ocean health aligns with Thailand's commitment to marine and ocean conservation. The meeting addressed policy advancement and preparations for the fourth UN Ocean Conference (UNOC4), scheduled for the Republic of Korea in 2028. Thailand's Foundation for Coral Reef and Marine Life Conservation, the ministry, and relevant agencies are jointly developing a preparedness plan to ensure Thailand's clear and concrete contribution to marine and ocean resource conservation at the international level.

Min Chomklin concluded by expressing gratitude for UNEP's partnership and Thailand's readiness to strengthen cooperation through UNEP/COBSEA frameworks, UNOC4 preparations, and implementation of SDG 14, working together to conserve, restore, and sustainably utilize marine and natural resources.