Congressman Valadao Introduces Legislation to Recognize Armenia for Hosting the Convention on Biological Diversity

WASHINGTON – This week, Congressman David Valadao (CA-22) and Rep. Frank Pallone, Jr. (NJ-06) introduced a bipartisan resolution commending Armenia for hosting the seventeenth meeting of the Conference of the Parties to the United Nations (U.N.) Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD COP17). This gathering in Yerevan, Armenia provides an important opportunity for nations around the world to come together and discuss the environmental challenges facing our planet. The resolution also recognizes the United States’ leadership in advancing agroforestry and conservation research around the globe through our universities, nonprofit organizations, agricultural producers, and scientists. Additionally, it highlights Armenia’s efforts to plant nearly 10 million trees and celebrates the strong cooperation between the United States and Armenia on conservation and environmental stewardship. “As co-chair of the Congressional Caucus on Armenian Issues, I’m proud to introduce this bipartisan resolution recognizing Armenia’s strong commitment to conservation and environmental stewardship,” said Congressman Valadao. “COP17 provides an important opportunity for leaders around the world to come together to address critical environmental challenges, and I commend Armenia for taking a leading role in this important conversation while strengthening the enduring partnership between our two nations.” “Armenia holds a special place in my heart, and I have been proud to stand with the Armenian people throughout my time in Congress,” said Congressman Frank Pallone, Jr. “Hosting COP17 gives Armenia a great opportunity to show the world the beauty of the country they have fought so hard to preserve. As nations come together in Yerevan to confront the loss of biodiversity and find better ways to protect our natural resources, Armenia will be at the center of that important work. I’m proud to help lead this bipartisan resolution celebrating this moment and ensuring Armenia can protect its natural heritage for generations to come.” "Conservation is not independent of security or sovereignty," said Armenia Tree Project Founder Carolyn Mugar. "By welcoming Armenia as host of COP17 and affirming U.S.-Armenia cooperation on forestry, water management, and wildfire prevention, this resolution treats Armenia's forests as the strategic national asset that they are. We thank the leadership of the Congressional Armenian Caucus for this important legislative initiative." Read the resolution here . ###