In the face of magnitude of the challenges posed by climate change in the Asian region, the imperative to transition towards renewable energy sources and promote green finance has never been more urgent.
Renewable energy offers a viable solution to mitigate the adverse impacts of climate change, reduce our reliance on fossil fuels, and contribute to energy security. The South Asia region’s abundant solar resources offer a great opportunity to achieve these goals.
Defence Secretary Gen. Kamal Gunaratne made these remarks during his keynote address as the Chief Guest at the International Summer School on Climate Change, Green Finance, and Disaster Management in South Asia, held at the Galle Face Hotel in Colombo on May 15.
The event, organized by Konrad-Adenauer-Stiftung e.V. /Regional Programme Energy Security and Climate Change Asia-Pacific (RECAP) in collaboration with the Consortium of South Asian Think Tanks (COSATT) from Nepal and the Institute of National Security Studies in Sri Lanka, will continue on May 16th and 17th.
Director, RECAP-KAS, Hong Kong Dr. Frederick Kliem delivered the welcome address of the session.
During the address, Gen. Gunaratne emphasized the impacts of climate change in South Asian nations and the need for collaborative action to transition to a sustainable future.
He called for governments, businesses, civil society organizations and academia to work together to develop and implement policies, strategies, and initiatives promoting renewable energy and green finance. Multilateral cooperation and knowledge sharing are crucial to address transboundary environmental challenges and ensure a fair transition for all.
The program aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of climate change-related challenges facing small countries in the South Asian region. By focusing on the promotion of renewable energy and fostering wide-ranging knowledge of green finance, particularly among young professionals, the Summer School seeks to equip participants with the tools needed to address pressing issues effectively.
Through a series of engaging sessions and discussions, the program will delve into the implications of climate change and offer insights into sustainable solutions. Attendees are expected to gain valuable insights, network with experts in the field, and contribute to meaningful discussions aimed at shaping a more resilient and sustainable future for South Asia.
Overlooking Director General and Acting Director (Research) of INSS and Director Media & Spokesman of the Ministry of Defence Colonel Nalin Herath delivered the vote of thanks of the session.
Distinguished guests including experts from Bangladesh, Bhutan, China, India, Maldives, Nepal, German, Pakistan and Sri Lanka were present at the occasion.
