Seychelles Participates in 8th Global Environment Facility Assembly in Uzbekistan
VICTORIA, Seychelles — Marie-May Jeremie, Minister for Environment, Climate, Energy and Natural Resources, is representing the Republic of Seychelles at the 8th Assembly of the Global Environment Facility, taking place from May 30 to June 6, 2026 in Samarkand, Uzbekistan. The Assembly brings together heads of State and government, ministers, senior officials, development partners, and representatives of international organisations to discuss global priorities for environmental action, climate resilience, biodiversity conservation, and sustainable development.
In her address, Minister Jeremie expressed Seychelles’ appreciation to donor partners for the successful replenishment of GEF-8 and welcomed ongoing discussions under the GEF-9 cycle, aimed at strengthening support for vulnerable countries, particularly small island developing states. She highlighted the critical role of the GEF in assisting countries to implement the sustainable development goals, the Paris Agreement, and the Global Biodiversity Framework, while calling for continued support for SIDS through accessible, predictable, and grant-based environmental financing.
The Assembly was preceded by the 64th meeting of the GEF Council, which brought together representatives from 185 member countries, international organisations, financial institutions, environmental agencies, civil society, and the private sector. Council members considered funding for environmental and climate projects and defined key directions for GEF-financed activities. Several decisions were adopted, including the evaluation of operational policies and programmes for GEF-financed activities.
On the sidelines of the Assembly, Seychelles engaged with international partners and stakeholders to explore opportunities for enhanced cooperation in areas including biodiversity conservation, sustainable agriculture, renewable energy, ocean governance, and climate adaptation. Minister Jeremie also reaffirmed Seychelles’ commitment to advancing the sustainable management of its marine resources through the implementation of its Marine Spatial Plan and the achievement of the global 30×30 conservation target.
The discussions and outcomes of the Assembly will contribute to supporting Seychelles’ efforts to mobilise resources, strengthen environmental resilience, and advance sustainable development for the benefit of present and future generations. Minister Jeremie is accompanied by Nanette Laure, principal secretary for Environment and Natural Resources, and Pennie Mondon, second secretary at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Diaspora, as members of the Seychelles delegation.
Seychelles remains committed to active engagement in international environmental governance.
