The post «Cali welcomes you with open arms»: Alejandro Eder at the inauguration of COP16 appeared first on Minuto30.
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Highlighting the power of reconciliation, the mayor of Cali, Alejandro Eder, participated in the opening ceremony of COP16 that took place on Sunday, October 20, in the ‘Blue Zone’, located in the Pacific Valley Events Center.
During his speech, the district president highlighted the relevance of this meeting, pointing out that beyond being an environmental summit, COP16 represents a historic opportunity for reconciliation.
“The eyes of the world are on Cali and Colombia today. And from here, in the middle of this fertile land, from this vibrant city, I call on the world and the leaders present to abandon messages of hate and division and replace them with messages of unity and working together,” said Eder.
He said that this COP16 has the capacity to be the stage where we not only reconcile our actions with nature, but also with each other as human beings, inhabitants of the same earth. “Cities have the greatest responsibility with the conservation of biodiversity on the planet. 80% of the world’s population lives in cities and our behavior is attacking the sources of life that guarantee our well-being,” he indicated.
In that sense, he also highlighted Cali’s role as a resilient city, which has overcome deep social tensions. “Three years ago, our streets were the scene of deep pain that erupted after years of inequality and lack of opportunities. Today, we are transforming Cali into a city of hope, working to overcome these wounds and recover its place in Latin America,” he assured. In addition, he highlighted the importance of the Chocó Biogeographic, a strategic natural corridor that connects Cali with five countries and that has not received the global attention it deserves, despite its immense biodiversity.
Photo: Cali Mayor’s Office
Cali’s commitment to sustainability
Cali, with its unique biodiversity, is a ‘biodiver-city’ committed to the conservation of its natural wealth. The city has more than 550 species of birds, seven rivers, 280 streams and 2 thousand water sources. From urban forests to protected areas, the city’s flora and fauna make Cali an example of harmony with nature.
Among the initiatives highlighted by Alejandro Eder is the creation of an Environmental Master Plan, with the goal of reducing greenhouse gas emissions by 30%, moving towards decarbonization and a sustainable Cali.
Likewise, one of the most important achievements mentioned in the opening ceremony was the closure of the largest illegal mine in the history of Colombia, located in the Farallones National Natural Park. This effort seeks to reconcile those who previously exploited natural resources, turning them into guardians of biodiversity, while promoting regenerative tourism with community participation.
Photo: Cali Mayor’s Office
Cali is where you should be
With the participation of international leaders and more than 200 scheduled events, Cali will be the epicenter of this COP of Reconciliation, a summit that integrates citizens into the dialogue on biodiversity, sustainability and social justice.
“Cali is where you should be,” said the mayor, inviting the world to join in the fight for a future in harmony with nature, where conservation is not an obstacle, but an opportunity for sustainable growth.
“To all who visit us, I thank you for being here, in this city committed to transformation, the 2030 Agenda and a sustainable future. Cali welcomes them with open arms,” Eder added.
Finally, the mayor thanked the National Government of Colombia and the United Nations for trusting the capital of Valle del Cauca to be the scene of an event that will mark a before and after in the history of humanity.
Photo: Cali Mayor’s Office
With a call for unity and joint work, he concluded: “reconciliation is the first step towards sustainability, towards social and environmental justice; “Welcome to COP16, the Reconciliation Summit.”
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The post «Cali welcomes you with open arms»: Alejandro Eder at the inauguration of COP16 appeared first on Minuto30.
2024-10-21 06:44:00
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