The National Environment Service (NES) recently met with the New Zealand First Secretary Ms. Kiri Stevens and Australian High Commissioner Her Excellency Ms. Phoebe Smith to the Cook Islands.
During the individual meetings, the NES discussed its 5-year strategy and shared its plans for environmental conservation and sustainability in the Cook Islands. For example, the Pacific Ocean Litter Project (POLP) funded by the Australian Government and implemented by SPREP that looks are reducing plastic waste that end up as marine litter in the Pacific Coastal environments. NES highlighted the importance of cooperation and collaboration among Pacific nations and partners in addressing common environmental challenges.
Both Stevens and Smith expressed their support for the NES’s efforts and pledged to work together towards a more sustainable future. The meeting was productive, and all agreed to continue dialogue and explore opportunities for joint initiatives in the areas of waste management, climate change adaptation and biodiversity conservation.
The NES looks forward to continued cooperation with New Zealand and Australia in advancing its mission to protect and preserve the environment for future generations.
