In Mr Kurilla’s address to more than 9000 participants from 192 countries, he hoped that over the next ten days, the participants would go away with pragmatic and innovative solutions for conserving and restoring nature. Mr Kurilla also ensured that as the EU Presidency, Slovakia, he would bring the messages from the Congress back to Brussels and the rest of Europe.

Also present at the Opening Ceremony, were US Secretary of the Interior, Mrs Sally Jewel; Govenor of Hawai'i, David Ige; US Senator, Hawai'i, Brian Schatz; President of of Palau, H.E Tommy Remengesau Jr; Executive Director, UN Envrionment Programme (UNEP), Erik Solheim; Kamehameha Schools Trustee, Corbett Kalama and President of IUCN, Mr Zhang Xinsheng.

This major conservation event organised by the International Union for Conservation of the Nature is held every four years and brings together government officials, leading scientists, NGOs, indigenous peoples and business from around the world. The Congress unites top professionals to share knowledge and expertise to discuss how to best manage our natural environment for the continued well-being all life on Earth. More than 300 Members of the IUCN are from the European Region. IUCN informs EU policy making, ensuring its knowledge and programmes are reflected in the decisions of the EU Institutions, and providing a policy exchange platform for IUCN members.

For the latest news and updates regarding the Congress, visit the IUCN World Conservation Congress website here.