Colombia and the other countries of the Amazon basin received recognition this Tuesday in Washington for their work to preserve this vital area of the planet.
Also extended to Ecuador, Brazil and Peru, The award was offered by the Atlantic Council think tank by granting them the distinction of “Catalysts for Global Change” during a gala in the American capital.
“We are pleased to receive this regional recognition. CColombia works closely with neighboring countries and the United States to promote sustainable agricultural practices and Deforestation-Free Production models in the Amazon, underlining the importance of international cooperation in the fight against global environmental challenges,” said Ambassador Luis Gilberto Murillo during the award ceremony.
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According to a statement from its diplomatic representation, Colombia has been demonstrating its commitment to deforestation through the Deforestation Containment Plan which, as they note, has stopped this process by 76 percent during the first half of 2023.
“This effort – said the Embassy – includes an initial investment of more than 11,000 million pesos destined to the department of Putumayo, historically one of the most affected by deforestation. We also highlight the allocation of future validity for 600,000 million pesos annually during the next two decades for the protection of the Amazon and the expansion of protected areas by more than 1.1 million hectares”.
The embassy also highlighted that, in addition to collaborating closely with regional partners, The country collaborates with the US to promote low-carbon agricultural practices and Deforestation-Free Production models in the Amazon.
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And in this sense, the recent donation of three UH-60 helicopters to the Colombian National Police, valued at 48 million dollars, stands out to strengthen Colombia’s capacity in the fight against environmental crimes such as deforestation, forest fires and illegal logging.
During the ceremony, The Atlantic Council also recognized the work of Colombian artist Carlos Vives, to whom it gave an award for his contribution to social change. through his Tras la Perla foundation, and other initiatives in the country.
SERGIO GÓMEZ MASERI
EL TIEMPO correspondent
Washington
On Twitter @sergom68
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