At the recently-concluded Fourth China Xizang Trans-Himalaya Forum for International Cooperation, Hon.Tharaka Balasuriya, the Minister of Foreign Affairs of Sri Lanka, noted that from renewable energy projects to smart agriculture, Sri Lanka is exploring innovative solutions to build a resilient and sustainable future.

In Hon.Tharaka Balasuriya's speech, he described the interlinked and cascading effects of climate change, biodiversity loss, and pollution. In his opinion, the situation becomes more intricate in ecologically fragile and sensitive areas like Himalaya, especially in the face of climate change. The Himalaya region is the source of water for the entire trans-Himalayan region. Most of the rivers originate from it and its biodiversity is crucial not only for the region but also to the entire world. Therefore, Sri Lanka believes that this forum provides a useful platform to foster international partnerships and the opportunity to build a sustainable economy and enhance the social development of the eco-environment of the Trans-Himalayan region.

“As we strive for development, it is essential to ensure that no one is left behind. Inclusive development that considers the needs of all communities, especially the most vulnerable, is crucial,”he said, “promoting the harmony of humans and nature and sharing the fruits of cooperation and development are not just aspirations, they are imperatives for our collective future.”