The COP29 Declaration on Water for Climate Action is a courageous and essential call to action, Malang Darboe, Deputy Permanent Secretary at Gambia's Ministry of Fisheries and Water Resources, stated at the COP29 side event, Report informs.
"The declaration underscores the importance of water as a cross-sectoral resource, vital not only for achieving the goals of the Paris Agreement but also for the broader Sustainable Development Goals," Darboe stated.
He particularly highlighted the launch of the Baku Water Dialogue on Climate Change, a platform that will promote collaboration at international, regional, and basin levels, ensuring continuity and coherence of water discussions at future COP conferences.
The official noted that Gambia is fully prepared to work with all parties to implement the objectives of the Water Declaration and its outcome decisions: "For Gambia, water is crucial for both our survival and development. Our agriculture and ecosystems are deeply dependent on water."
Darboe explained that Gambia, a country that joined the UN Water Convention, fully understands the importance of international cooperation in managing water resources. The convention guides Gambia's efforts to improve transboundary water management, balance water use, ensure equitable access, and enhance resilience against climate change, he concluded.