28 October 2015 - The Philippine Delegation composed of Philippine Ambassador to Turkey Maria Rowena Mendoza Sanchez (Head of Delegation), Minister Robert O. Ferrer, Jr. (Adviser), Department of Agriculture Director Silvino Tejada (Adviser) and Third Secretary Ericka Anna T. Abad (Adviser) attended the opening of the 12th Session of the Conference of the Parties (COP12) to the United Nations Convention to Combat Desertification (UNCCD) which was held on October 12 at the Congresium Ankara.
The COP12 delegates are expected to discuss issues related to desertification, land degradation and drought (DLDD). The COP12 participants are also expected to come up with a statement for the Paris Climate Change Conference, which will be held from November 30 to December 11.
COP12 delegates elected Mr. Veysel Eroğlu, Minister of Forestry and Water Affairs of Turkey, as COP12 President during the Opening Plenary. Mr. Eroğlu emphasized that climate change, desertification, and drought are amongst the most important global challenges today. UNCCD Executive Secretary Monique Barbut, on the other hand, noted the increased recognition of land issues at the global level. She also acknowledged the role of land in climate change negotiations.
Regional and interest groups and UN agencies were given opportunities to share their views on the COP12 agenda, especially on the importance of the implementation of the Convention at the regional, sub-regional and national levels. Several groups underscored the importance of ensuring that the role of land-based approaches to climate change adaptation and mitigation is given due attention at the Paris Climate Change Conference.
COP12-related meetings lasted until October 23. END