United Nations Development Programme, the Ministry of Nature Protection, National Assembly, civil society and media representatives spoke about environmental issues at a round table discussion dedicated to the World Day to Combat Desertification and Drought. The event was initiated to discuss global environmental trends related to the desertification process and identify future development scenarios for Armenia. Participants earmarked environmental events which will consolidate global attention – particularly highlighting importance to get prepared for the 'Rio+20' Earth Summit to be held in 2012. The participants spoke about desertification and methods used for its prevention in Armenia. The problem is crucial for the country, where eighty two per cent of the territory is prone to various degrees of desertification. Ms. Dafina Gercheva, UN Resident Coordinator/UNDP Resident Representative said: “According to the assessments under the Second National Communication to the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change - climate change in Armenia will further aggravate the situation - that is why it is crucial to continue uniting the efforts of all governmental and non –governmental partners and the private business aimed to combat desertification in Armenia and improve the environmental situation in the country.” Mr. Aram Harutyunyan, Minister of Nature Protection said: “Activities indicated in the action plan to combat desertification in Armenia could not be limited to consideration of the environmental component only because the United Nation Convention to Combat Desertification pays a special attention to the social and economic pillars. This is the only way to address challenges imposed by the desertification.” The event was organized jointly by the United Nations Department of Public Information, United Nations Development Programme, the Ministry of Nature Protection and the Association “For Sustainable Human Development. June 17 was proclaimed by United Nations General Assembly on January 30, 1995 to commemorate the World Day to Combat Desertification and Drought.

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