The participants discussed issues such as environmental protection, sustainable use of natural resources, energy efficiency and renewable energy, as well as digital and technological innovations promoting green recovery and economic growth. Another topic under discussion was the devastating economic and environmental consequences of Russia’s military aggression against Ukraine.

The OSCE Chairman-in-Office, Minister Zbigniew Rau, stressed that in recent months we have witnessed a destabilising effect of the Russian aggression on the world economy and an increased risk it has posed to the environment. “As a result of Russia’s aggression against Ukraine, financial markets, including those in the OSCE area, that have yet to fully recover from the pandemic, are being jeopardised with further economic upheavals. Economic and environmental prospects for Ukraine are bleak and likely to further deteriorate. Ground, water and air pollution caused by the illegal warfare poses a direct threat to citizens’ health. The longer this horrible situation endures, the bigger impact it will have on future generations. This applies to both the neighbouring countries and the world as a whole,” argued the head of Polish diplomacy.

“The Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe could play a major role in supporting reconstruction efforts, which ensure long-term security of our populations across the entire region,” said Minister Rau. The aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic hasn’t been fully dealt with, we must use the opportunity for building a more balanced future for generations in Ukraine and all of OSCE area,” he added.

The Forum has brought together 200 participants representing governments, civil society, business, and international organisations.

The Second Preparatory Meeting of the 30th OSCE Economic and Environmental Forum was organised by Poland, which is this year’s chair of the Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe, and by the Office of the Co-ordinator of OSCE Economic and Environmental Activities. The Forum’s Concluding Meeting - the main event of the OSCE economic and environmental dimension—will take place in Prague on 8 and 9 September 2022.

 

Łukasz Jasina
MFA Press Spokesperson

 

Photo: Bartosz Peterman/MFA