150 young people from all over the world gathered yesterday, together with illustrious personalities from the political, diplomatic and business worlds, at the International Conference Room of the Farnesina, to participate in the One Arctic opening ceremony, the first youth simulation of the work of the Arctic Council in Italy. The event was promoted by the Italian Society for International Organization (SIOI - UN Association of Italy), in collaboration with the United States Embassy in Italy, and the support of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, Leonardo Spa and the Canadian Embassy in Rome.
Franco Frattini, president of SIOI, inaugurated the event by emphasizing the interconnection between the "Arctic issues" and the future of humanity. His speech highlighted how One Arctic is a simulation that concerns the Arctic, but whose impact goes beyond the Arctic. Safeguarding the region and the indigenous population from forced migrations caused by climate change depends on our ability to act now with the future of the next generations in mind.
Followed by the Undersecretary for Foreign Affairs, Benedict of the Widow, highlighted how the challenges of preserving the Arctic go beyond national borders. Attention to the Arctic is not only linked to national interests but is also motivated by "international solidarity".
The Acting United States Ambassador to Italy, Kelly Degnan, reaffirmed the US commitment to protecting the Arctic and involving Arctic communities in decisions affecting them. The future is in the hands of the new generations and involving them in sustainable development issues is a key commitment to progress, concluded the Chargé d'Affaires.
Climate change won't happen in 50 years – Finnish ambassador Janne Taalas concluded in her speech – but it is happening now, while we are here and talking. “We can still make a difference”.
Massimo Comparini, CEO of E-Geos, underlined how the ability to observe the planet from space is one of the elements that allows us to understand climate change. The company, an international leader in the Earth observation and Geo-Spatial sector, has been involved in monitoring for environmental protection, natural disaster management and maritime surveillance since 2000. Fundamental themes that will be discussed, starting today, by the young people of One Arctic.
The works will continue from 3 to 5 May at the SIOI headquarters in Palazzetto Venezia. The best Delegates will be awarded at the closing ceremony on 5 May, during which the Youth Arctic Roadmap will be presented and then sent to the MAECI Senior Arctic Official.
