On March 3, Minister of  Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Armenia Ararat Mirzoyan received the Executive Secretary of the United Nations Convention on Biological Diversity Astrid Schomaker.

Minister Mirzoyan congratulated Astrid Schomaker on the successful holding of the 16th Conference of the Parties  to the Convention (COP16) in Rome, in which the Armenian delegation was also actively involved. The Foreign Minister of Armenia emphasized that hosting the next COP17 conference is a great responsibility for Armenia, noting that several steps have already been taken to ensure its successful organization.

Ararat Mirzoyan presented the ongoing and planned efforts, highlighting that their coordination is carried out at the governmental level, involving all relevant stakeholders. The Foreign Minister underlined the importance of ensuring an efficient and inclusive organization of the conference, as well as the significance of close cooperation with international partners, including the Convention Secretariat.

Astrid Schomaker noted: “It is very important for us to see Armenia stepping forward on the world stage as a biodiversity champion over the next two years. I would say, as of today, we are a team and we really need to work hand-in-hand to make COP17 a success. I think we're very optimistic that it will be a great COP, and also a wonderful discovery, I think, for people coming from around the world to see Armenia and discover your culture”.

During the meeting, both sides emphasized the particular significance of the COP17, considering that it will serve as the first global review of the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework developed under the Convention.

The interlocutors discussed various aspects of the COP17 agenda, including the formulation of substantive priorities, ensuring inclusivity and enhancing public awareness.