Indo-Pacific Environmental Security Forum (IPESF) 2023 concludes on successful note

The Indo-Pacific Environmental Security Forum (IPESF) 2023 concluded on 17th August 2023, marking a significant milestone in the stakeholders’ commitment to addressing environmental challenges and ensuring the security of its ecosystems. The 12th edition of IPESF was co-hosted by the US Indo- Pacific Command (INDOPACOM), Sri Lanka Navy (SLN), and Sri Lanka Coast Guard (SLCG). The forum was held at Shangri-La Colombo over 04 days (14th to 17th August) facilitating the exchange of insights and exemplary approaches among stakeholders concerned with environmental security.

Climate Change and Security, Maritime, Ocean and Water Security and Impacts of Urbanization and Land Security were the themes of the first three days (from 14th to 16th August) of the Indo-Pacific Environmental Security Forum. On 16th August, workshops were arranged featuring techniques of cultivating coral on an artificial reef located in Colombo Port City and the proper procedures for conducting a scientific mangrove plantation trial in the Negombo lagoon.

The theme of the last day of the Indo-Pacific Environmental Security Forum was Building National and Regional Resilience. Accordingly, Wing Commander Trev Hammond of the New Zealand Defence Force and Lieutenant Colonel Timothy Koh of Ministry of Defence (Singapore) made presentations on Sustainability, Environmental Risk and Resilience Planning for the NZDF and The Singapore Armed Forces’ Contributions to the National Sustainability Efforts and Climate Adaptation respectively.

Meanwhile, the closing remarks by Brigadier General Gavin Gardner and Additional Secretary Ministry of Environment, Dr. Sunimal Wijetunga brought down the curtain on the Indo-Pacific Environmental Security Forum 2023.

At the directives and guidance of the Commander of the Navy, Vice Admiral Priyantha Perera the Sri Lanka Navy and Sri Lanka Coast Guard have made arrangements in place for the successful conduct of the event, in close coordination with INDOPACOM. By organising and engaging in this nature of forums, participants can enhance their collective ability to address environmental issues in the Indo-Pacific region. This will be achieved by assimilating insights, gaining fresh knowledge, and exchanging experiences related to the region's environmental safeguarding. By doing so, all involved parties will be better equipped to collaboratively tackle regional climate shifts with unwavering commitment.