South Asian countries have reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening regional cooperation to combat air pollution and its transboundary impacts during the 17th Intergovernmental Meeting of the Malé Declaration on Control and Prevention of Air Pollution and its Likely Transboundary Effects in South Asia, held in Malé from 8 to 9 July.
The two-day meeting was co-organised by the South Asia Co-operative Environment Programme (SACEP) and the Regional Resource Centre for Asia and the Pacific at the Asian Institute of Technology, bringing together government officials and environmental experts from across South Asia.
The meeting focused on revitalising and strengthening the Malé Declaration, with member countries holding extensive discussions on a new five-year work programme aimed at enhancing regional collaboration in tackling air pollution and its cross-border effects.
During the discussions, participating countries recognised air pollution as one of the region's most pressing environmental challenges and reaffirmed their shared commitment to coordinated action. Delegates agreed that stronger regional partnerships are essential to developing sustainable solutions to improve air quality and protect public health across South Asia.
Member states also agreed to enhance air quality monitoring systems and strengthen the exchange of environmental information by making greater use of modern technologies, enabling countries to better monitor pollution trends and respond more effectively to emerging challenges.
The Ministry of Climate Change, Environment and Energy said hosting the meeting in Malé reflects the Maldives' continued commitment to environmental protection and its active role in promoting stronger regional cooperation on climate and environmental issues.
The outcomes of the meeting are expected to guide regional efforts over the next five years, reinforcing the shared resolve of South Asian nations to work together in addressing air pollution and safeguarding the environment for future generations.
