Partners for biodiversity in the Caucasus

Dear Excellencies, honoured guests and WWF,

As everybody in this room knows, nature is the very basis for the way we live, our long-term development and welfare - and even security. Norway supports the Georgian and Armenian authorities through WWF in the work along the Iori-river, in the “Crying Mountain”-rainforest, the Khosrov reserve and protected areas of Southern Armenia. These projects are an investment in the long term development and welfare of the region.

I have been impressed by the work behind these important project activities. The Ecoregional Conservation Plan sets up a common roadmap for the protection of the biodiversity in a region of 6 countries and different cultures, languages, and religions. The plan reflects the fact that all human beings share the same natural environment. It is an impressive example that people from different nations can work together for a common interest. Today, such examples are needed more than ever. 

I was excited to learn about the natural wonders of the Caucasus! Few in Western Europe know about the biological heritage of the region: One third of the fish species in the Caucasus are endemic, one fourth of the plants and one fifth of the mammals! The Caucasus contains genetic material of great value for the future. And I must add; Caucasus must be a panorama for Western tourists seeking cultural and natural uniqueness. Treasure it!

Norway wants to support efforts to tackle environmental challenges in the very eastern part of Europe. We want to help saving natural treasures of global significance. We will be honoured to continue the cooperation and partnerships for saving the biodiversity of the Caucasus. 

I have never been to Armenia and Georgia, but maybe one day I will be able to say like my countryman, the author and Nobel Prize winner, Knut Hamsun: “Soon I will leave this country, but I will always long back - because I have drunk of the river Kura”.

Well, as many of you will know, the water of Kura today is polluted and not drinkable. But a water cleaning project is now underway, bringing hope for the future also to this area.

Thank you very much!