Prominent International Diplomats and Scientists to Convene at Inaugural Blue Talks in Ankara for Urgent Climate Action

Ankara, Turkiye– Addressing the pressing global challenge of climate change, Bizim Dünyamız Vakfı (Our World Foundation) in collaboration with the UN University for Peace, and in partnership with Turkiye's Foreign Ministry as well as the Embassy of Costa Rica in Ankara proudly announces the first-ever Blue Talks. Themed "Immersed in Change: Ocean Action and Climate Change," this timely annual event in Ankara will serve as a pivotal platform for high-level diplomatic engagement and concerted environmental action.

The Blue Talks will feature an exceptional lineup of global dignitaries, reflecting the critical importance of the discussions and the high stakes of international climate diplomacy. Key speakers include Mehmet Kemal Bozay, Deputy Foreign Minister of Turkiye, and Ambassadors from several nations including Costa Rica, France, Japan, and the United Arab Emirates. Their participation underscores the significant international commitment to forging robust, actionable solutions to climate challenges.

The conference will spotlight the vital role of the oceans in climate resilience, driven by insights from high-ranking officials and global experts. It aims to foster a deeper understanding and peace with nature, advocating for significant policy transformations. Blue Talks will serve as an effective forum for a global assembly of diplomats, policymakers, and thought leaders to share strategies, ideas, and viewpoints, thus enhancing the discourse around successful climate diplomacy.

The event will feature a keynote speech from Deputy Foreign Minister Mehmet Kemal Bozay. The program will present two pivotal panels: ''Zero Waste on the Ocean; Immersed in Change'' will gather panelists, including high-ranking diplomats and experts in marine and environmental sciences, discussing strategies to mitigate oceanic waste. ''Utilizing Diplomacy in Advancing Climate Negotiations'' will feature a distinguished panel discussing the role of diplomacy in advancing global climate agreements and actions.

The event will also feature interactive sessions and workshops aimed at engaging youth leaders and fostering a dialogue on the next steps in climate action.

Kahraman Haliscelik, President of Bizim Dunyamiz Vakfi said the Blue Talks will be held annualy. Mr Haliscelik emphesized the importance of instigating impactful dialogue and fostering comprehensive international cooperation on climate change. Mr. Haliscelik stated that bringing together a multitude of voices and perspectives, the event will lead to meaningful environmental stewardship and sustainable development.

Gustavo Campos Fallas, Ambassador of Costa Rica to Ankara stated that his country's goal was ''to protect at least 30% of the planet's land and ocean by 2030. Ambassador Fallas said ''As the Minister of Foreign Affairs and Worship of Costa Rica expressed: The road ahead is challenging, but I truly believe that together we are not only defenders of the ocean; we are its guardians, its voice and its hope".

Ambassador David Fernandez, Permanent Observer of UPEACE in UN, and Dr. Mohamed Osman, Representative of UPEACE in Somalia, underscored that "climate change is a pressing global problem that transcend borders, impacting economies and communities. It demands concerted actions at the multilateral level. The PhD program on Blue Economy and Maritime Security is the UPEACE contribution to this global challenge to the oceans.''

The Blue Talks, annual event co-organized by Bizim Dunyamiz Vakfi and the UN University for Peace will take place in Ankara on 22 April 2024. The event will bring together diplomats, scientists, experts and youth. Anadolu Agency will serve as the communications partner for the Blue Talks. Halkbank is one of the main contributors to the event.