The 9th Summit for Subnational Governments and Cities was held as part of COP17, with opening remarks delivered by COP17 President and Armenia’s Minister of Environment, Hambardzum Matevosyan.

The Ministry of Environment said that during the summit, Matevosyan emphasized the key role of cities and communities in translating global biodiversity commitments into practical results, highlighting the importance of access to financing, technology, and expert support.

Matevosyan presented new opportunities for community involvement in establishing and managing protected areas of local significance in Armenia, as well as an initiative to designate Hrazdan Gorge as Yerevan’s first community-protected natural area.

“The goal is clear: to move from international commitments to measurable action at the local level, for the benefit of nature and people,” the ministry said in a statement.