EU receptive to Lanka’s plight due to impact of climate emergency

By Ifham Nizam

The European Union Ambassador yesterday assured that the EU would consider granting Sri Lanka assistance vis-a-vis the impact of climate emergency and other related environmental issues. He gave this assurance when he met Environment Minister Mahinda Amaraweera and other senior officials, including Secretary to the Ministry Dr. Anil Jasinghe.

The focus of the discussion was on the introduction of new technologies for agriculture and tackling water scarcity.

EU Ambassador to Sri Lanka and Maldives, Dennis Chaibi, said that the new technology used by European countries to mitigate the impact of climate change would be beneficial to Sri Lanka as well.

The two sides exchanged views on issues such as the people of our country, the attainment of economic prosperity, the enforcement of peace and law.

Minister Amaraweera thanked the European Union for its support so far.

Ambassador Chaibi and Minister Councillor – Head of Cooperation, Frank Hess called on Minister of Environment Mahinda Amaraweera at the Ministry of Environment and discussed a number of issues related the environment.

Ministry Secretary Dr. Jasinghe and other heads of departments were also present at the discussion.

Discussions also focused on rural developments.

Dr Jasinghe pointed out that the government had launched a sustainable environmental programme to regulate plastics and polythene in Sri Lanka.

He also said that a green city project had been launched and requested the EU to support the ongoing environmental development programme here.