Press Release

Environmental Protection for Economic Growth

Joint BSEC-USA Symposium Istanbul

September 12-13, 2007

On September 12-13, BSEC and the United States government jointly held a symposium bringing together government officials as well as representatives from the private and non-governmental sectors of the twelve BSEC member states. The symposium was designed to explore the nexus between environmental protection and economic growth and development in the greater Black Sea region. U.S. officials from the Department of State and USAID as well as officials from UNDP, the European Commission and the Black Sea Commission also participated in the exchange of ideas and best practices.

At the opening session, U.S. Deputy Assistant Secretary of State for European Affairs Colleen Graffy explained that government has a role to play, but environmental protection is not just a government function, businesses and corporations share the responsibility. Environmental damage knows no borders, we have to find ways to bring together communities, regions and sectors of society to resolve environmental problems.

Participants agreed that environmental protection is an important topic for all BSEC member states and observers and is a key component for sustainable economic development. A holistic approach to environmental protection that includes renewable energy, sustainable tourism and rural development, particularly sustainable agricultural development is vital to gaining the broad societal and governmental support required for success.

Many BSEC member states and observers have extensive experience in both public and private sector environmental protection which they can share with each other. BSEC can play a role in bringing together experts from throughout the region to discuss best practices and examine successful models. In his closing remarks BSEC Secretary-General Amb. Leonidas Chrysanthopoulos said “in order the complement the work of international, regional, national and local efforts, BSEC should hold symposia on environmental protection topics on a regular basis to facilitate regional cooperation and the sharing of ideas.”