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<p><span style="font-family: var(--bs-body-font-family); text-align: var(--bs-body-text-align);"><b>Badung, 9 October 2023</b></span><span style="font-family: var(--bs-body-font-family); font-weight: var(--bs-body-font-weight); text-align: var(--bs-body-text-align);"> – The Archipelagic and Island States Forum had just concluded the AIS Blue Economy High-Level Dialogue as a side event of the 2023 HLM of the AIS Forum.</span><br></p><p><span style="font-size: 15px;">The dialogue which carried the theme "Forging a New Era of Sustainable Blue Growth in Archipelagic and Island States" was held at the Mulia Hotel, Nusa Dua, Badung Regency, Bali, and featured several key speakers from various sectors. The high-level dialogue aimed to begin a new era of sustainable blue growth and strengthen collaboration in blue financing to accelerate its implementation.</span></p><p><span style="font-size: 15px;">The Head of the AIS Forum Secretariat, Riny Modaso, on Monday, 9 October, in Bali said that this high-level dialogue brought together world leaders, economic experts, investors, and business actors to engage in a discussion on the sustainability and development of the blue economy sector.</span></p><p><span style="font-size: 15px;">“This dialogue aims to identify key opportunities and threats in developing a strong blue economy in island and archipelagic countries, as well as facilitate the exchange of knowledge and expertise between participants to increase the capacity of island countries in developing, implementing, and monitoring blue economy initiatives,” Riny said.</span></p><p><span style="font-size: 15px;">Riny underscored that island and archipelagic countries were the most affected countries by climate change, and thus they had to be able to seize the opportunities offered by the sustainable blue economy.</span></p><p><span style="font-size: 15px;">“However, most of them have not fully taken advantage of this blue economy potential due to the lack of private investment and funding facilities, the absence of an enabling environment, as well as the presence of risks, such as debt and climate vulnerability,” she explained.</span></p><p><span style="font-size: 15px;">The 500-plus participants at the AIS Blue Economy High-Level Dialogue, added Riny, were representatives from Indonesian ministries and agencies, business and industry leaders with a strong passion for sustainability issues, experts, academics, practitioners, development agency partners, NGOs representatives, students, and CSOs. They all gathered to discuss and collaborate to boost the blue economy.</span></p><p><span style="font-size: 15px;">“The AIS Blue Economy High-Level Dialogue is an important step to maintain equity and ensure island and archipelagic countries’ opportunity to benefit from sustainable blue economy growth. We hope that this dialogue will lead to innovative solutions to future blue economy challenges,” she&nbsp;</span><span style="font-family: var(--bs-body-font-family); font-weight: var(--bs-body-font-weight); text-align: var(--bs-body-text-align);">concluded. (AIS Secretariat/TR/Elvira Inda Sari/AAN/FLW)</span></p><p style="text-align: center; "><span style="font-size: 15px;">***</span></p><p><span style="font-size: 15px;"><i><b>About AIS Forum:</b></i></span></p><p><span style="font-size: 15px;"><i>The Archipelagic and Island States (AIS) Forum is a global platform for cooperation among island and archipelagic states that aims at strengthening collaboration to address global issues with four main areas of focus: climate change mitigation and adaptation, the blue economy, marine plastic debris, and good maritime governance. The 2023 High-Level Meeting of the AIS Forum is organized to reinforce the role of the AIS Forum as a center for smart and innovative solutions and a platform for collaboration in promoting the future agenda of global maritime governance.</i></span></p><p><span style="font-size: 15px;">For more information, please contact:</span></p><p><span style="font-size: 15px;"><b>Thomas Benmetan, Head of Marketing &amp; Communication, AIS Forum Secretariat (thomas.benmetan@undp.org)</b></span></p><p><span style="font-size: 15px;">Get more press releases, news, photos, and videos related to the 2023 HLM of the AIS Forum at </span><a href="https://s.id/aispedia.">https://s.id/aispedia.</a></p><p><i><span style="font-size: 15px;">Foto caption:&nbsp;</span><span style="text-align: var(--bs-body-text-align); font-size: 15px;">The Head of the AIS Forum Secretariat, Riny Modaso, on Monday, 9 October 2023, in Bali says that the AIS blue economy high-level dialog brings together world leaders, economic experts, investors, and business actors to engage in a discussion on the sustainability and development of the blue economy sector.</span></i></p>

AIS Forum Begins New Era of Sustainable Blue Economy Growth

Badung, 9 October 2023 – The Archipelagic and Island States Forum had just concluded the AIS Blue Economy High-Level Dialogue as a side event of the 2023 HLM of the AIS Forum.The dialogue which carried the theme "Forging a New Era of Sustainable Blue Growth in Archipelagic and Island States" was...

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<p><span style="font-family: var(--bs-body-font-family); text-align: var(--bs-body-text-align);"><b>Badung, 9 October 2023</b></span><span style="font-family: var(--bs-body-font-family); font-weight: var(--bs-body-font-weight); text-align: var(--bs-body-text-align);"> – A total of 21 leaders and high-ranking officials of island and archipelagic states and international organizations arrived at I Gusti Ngurah Rai Airport, on Monday, 9 October to attend the 1st High-Level Meeting of the Archipelagic and Island States Forum on 10—11 October in Nusa Dua, Badung Regency, Bali.</span><br></p><p><span style="font-size: 15px;">Based on the list of arrivals and departures received by the Communications and Media Team of the 2023 HLM of the AIS Forum, the arrival times started from 10:10 a.m. to 11:55 p.m. Central Indonesian Time (GMT+8).</span></p><p><span style="font-size: 15px;">Nineteen leaders and high-ranking officials of archipelagic and island countries that will participate in the 1st HLM are from Bahrain, Marshall Islands, Tuvalu, Niue, Maldives, Malta, Saint Lucia, Japan, the United Kingdom, Ireland, New Zealand, the Philippines, Cyprus, Fiji, Cape Verde, Madagascar, Micronesia, Suriname, and Samoa.</span></p><p><span style="font-size: 15px;">Meanwhile, international organizations that will attend the 1st HLM are the Pacific Island Forum (PIF) and the Melanesian Spearhead Group (MSG).</span></p><p><span style="font-size: 15px;">The leaders and high-ranking officials of the island and archipelagic countries and international organizations were warmly welcomed by top officials of the Indonesian government upon their arrival at I Gusti Ngurah Rai Airport, Bali.</span></p><p><span style="font-size: 15px;">All state guests were welcomed with a state ceremony by the Cordon Guard from the Military Police under the Presidential Security Force (Paspampres).</span></p><p><span style="font-size: 15px;">The Cordon Guard consists of the best military soldiers from the Indonesian Army serving as guardians in state protocol events. The main task of the Cordon Guard is to provide military honors to state guests coming to Indonesia, such as gun salutes, state guests' car door opening, and escort for state guests from the entrance to their seats.</span></p><p><span style="font-size: 15px;">The guests were also greeted by a Balinese traditional welcoming dance, the Pendet. This dance is usually performed in various religious and traditional ceremonies in Bali, especially as a welcoming dance or dance offering to Gods.</span></p><p><span style="font-size: 15px;">The Pendet dance is a very important part of Bali's cultural heritage and has become a sacred and beautiful performance in various religious and cultural ceremonies on the island. (Toro/Elvira Inda Sari/S/FLW)</span></p><p style="text-align: center; "><span style="font-size: 15px;">***</span></p><p><span style="font-size: 15px;"><i><b>About AIS Forum:</b></i></span></p><p><span style="font-size: 15px;"><i>The Archipelagic and Island States (AIS) Forum is a global platform for cooperation among island and archipelagic states that aims at strengthening collaboration to address global issues with four main areas of focus: climate change mitigation and adaptation, the blue economy, marine plastic waste management, and good maritime governance. The 2023 High-Level Meeting of the AIS Forum is organized to reinforce the role of the AIS Forum as a center for smart &amp; innovative solutions and a platform for collaboration in promoting the future agenda of global maritime governance.</i></span></p><p><span style="font-size: 15px;">For more information please contact:</span></p><p><b><span style="font-size: 15px;">Thomas Benmetan, Head of Marketing &amp; Communication, AIS Forum Secretariat&nbsp;</span><span style="font-family: var(--bs-body-font-family); text-align: var(--bs-body-text-align);">(thomas.benmetan@undp.org).</span></b></p><p><span style="font-size: 15px;">Get more information on press releases, narratives, photos, and videos related to the 2023 HLM of the AIS Forum at </span><a href="https://s.id/aispedia.">https://s.id/aispedia.</a></p><p><i><span style="font-size: 15px;">Foto caption:&nbsp;</span><span style="text-align: var(--bs-body-text-align); font-size: 15px;">Deputy Prime Minister of Tonga, Samiu Kuita Vaipulu, (second left) and spouse Mele Muimui Liu Mei Tupou Latu Vaipulu (left) are greeted by the Assistant Deputy for Maritime Law and Treaties of the Indonesian Coordinating Ministry for Maritime Affairs and Investment, Radian Nurcahyo, (third left) upon arrival at I Gusti Ngurah Rai International Airport, Badung, Bali, on Sunday, 8 October 2023. Samiu Kuita Vaipulu arrived in Bali to attend the 2023 HLM of the AIS Forum in Nusa Dua, Bali on 10—11 October 2023. (Media Center of 2023 HLM of the AIS Forum /Fikri Yusuf/pras)</span></i></p>

21 Leaders and High-ranking Officials Arrive in Bali to Attend the 2023 HLM of the AIS Forum

Badung, 9 October 2023 – A total of 21 leaders and high-ranking officials of island and archipelagic states and international organizations arrived at I Gusti Ngurah Rai Airport, on Monday, 9 October to attend the 1st High-Level Meeting of the Archipelagic and Island States Forum on 10—11...

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<p><b style="font-family: var(--bs-body-font-family); text-align: var(--bs-body-text-align);">Badung, 9 October 2023</b><span style="font-family: var(--bs-body-font-family); font-weight: var(--bs-body-font-weight); text-align: var(--bs-body-text-align);"> – Commander of the Indonesian National Defense Forces (TNI) Yudo Margono has instructed his personnel to ensure the implementation of security measures for the 1st High-Level Meeting (HLM) of the Archipelagic and Island States (AIS) Forum.</span><br></p><p><span style="font-size: 15px;">This was emphasized by the TNI Commander when, along with the Chief of the Indonesian National Police, Police General Listyo Sigit Prabowo spearheaded the Tactical Floor Game (TFG) on Sunday, 8 October, regarding strategies for ensuring the security of the VVIP AIS Forum, scheduled to take place on 10—11 2023.</span></p><p><span style="font-size: 15px;">"Understand contingency plans as anticipatory steps in response to potential changes in the field. Identify vulnerable areas and implement security measures around these areas," the TNI Commander remarked.</span></p><p><span style="font-size: 15px;">The Commander stated that the purpose of the TFG, which was attended by TNI and POLRI Task Force Commanders, government agencies, and other related parties, was to ensure the readiness of each Task Force involved in the security operation for the AIS Forum’s High-Level Meeting to anticipate the dynamic situation that may arise during the event.</span></p><p><span style="font-size: 15px;">For this reason, the Commander emphasized that the event is not a drill, exercise, or simulation, but a real event that cannot be repeated, so that everyone must be genuinely confident that it runs smoothly and be able to anticipate any unforeseen dynamics.</span></p><p><span style="font-size: 15px;">During this occasion, the TNI Commander also emphasized that there will be no restrictions on tourists' and Balinese residents' participation in social activities during the AIS Forum.</span></p><p><span style="font-size: 15px;">"No restrictions applied, but there may be some slight disruptions when the delegates’ convoy move from the airport to the hotel and event location. However, I believe the Balinese people are used to it since Bali has hosted several summits," said the TNI Commander. In the meantime, National Police Chief General Listyo Sigit Prabowo stated that his party will prepare anticipatory measures in terms of developing issues at home and abroad to maintain the smooth organization of AIS Forum’s High Level Meeting. "I and the TNI Commander will e execute optimum security measures to ensure the smooth progression of all activities and the formulation of strategic decisions from the discussions," stated&nbsp;</span><span style="font-family: var(--bs-body-font-family); font-weight: var(--bs-body-font-weight); text-align: var(--bs-body-text-align);">Sigit. (Puspen TNI/TR/Elvira Inda Sari) </span></p><p style="text-align: center; "><span style="font-family: var(--bs-body-font-family); font-weight: var(--bs-body-font-weight); text-align: var(--bs-body-text-align);">***</span></p><p><span style="font-size: 15px;"><i><b>About AIS Forum:</b></i></span></p><p><span style="font-size: 15px;"><i>The Archipelagic and Island States (AIS) Forum is a global platform for cooperation among island and archipelagic states that aims at strengthening collaboration to address global issues with four main areas of focus: climate change mitigation and adaptation, the blue economy, marine plastic debris, and good maritime governance. The 2023 High-Level Meeting of the AIS Forum is organized to reinforce the role of the AIS Forum as a center for smart and innovative solutions and a platform for collaboration in promoting the future agenda of global maritime governance.</i></span></p><p><span style="font-size: 15px;">For more information, please contact:</span></p><p><span style="font-size: 15px;"><b>Director General of Public Information and Communications of the Ministry of Communications and Informatics – Usman Kansong (0816785320).</b></span></p><p><span style="font-size: 15px;">Get more press releases, news, photos, and videos related to the 2023 HLM of the&nbsp;</span><span style="font-family: var(--bs-body-font-family); font-weight: var(--bs-body-font-weight); text-align: var(--bs-body-text-align);">AIS Forum at </span><a href="https://s.id/aispedia.">https://s.id/aispedia.</a></p><p><i><span style="font-family: var(--bs-body-font-family); font-weight: var(--bs-body-font-weight); text-align: var(--bs-body-text-align);">Foto caption:&nbsp;</span><span style="text-align: var(--bs-body-text-align); font-size: 15px;">Commander of the Indonesian National Defense Forces (TNI) Yudo Margono and Chief of the Indonesian National Police Sigit Prabowo while visiting the MCI Media Center of the 1st High-Level Meeting (HLM) of the Archipelagic and Island States (AIS) Forum at BNDCC, Nusa Dua, Bali on Monday, 9 October 2023.</span></i></p>

Security Arrangement for HLM of AIS Forum Under Control

Badung, 9 October 2023 – Commander of the Indonesian National Defense Forces (TNI) Yudo Margono has instructed his personnel to ensure the implementation of security measures for the 1st High-Level Meeting (HLM) of the Archipelagic and Island States (AIS) Forum.This was emphasized by the TNI...

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<p><span style="font-family: var(--bs-body-font-family); text-align: var(--bs-body-text-align);"><b>Badung, 9 October 2023</b></span><span style="font-family: var(--bs-body-font-family); font-weight: var(--bs-body-font-weight); text-align: var(--bs-body-text-align);"> – The Archipelagic and Island States (AIS) Forum is committed to support the development, implementation, and replication of smart and innovative solutions to accelerate the efforts of archipelagic and island states in achieving a sustainable ocean future. In 2018, 21 countries agreed upon the Manado Joint Declaration, which led to the establishment of the AIS Forum. Over time, more countries are joining the collaboration framework..</span><br></p><p><span style="font-size: 15px;">The four key areas of cooperation in the Forum include climate change mitigation and adaptation, the blue economy and ecotourism, marine plastic debris, and sustainable marine governance. Climate change mitigation involves actions that reduce the rate of climate change. Meanwhile, the blue economy is an effort to safeguard the sustainability of marine environment for the greater prosperity of communities by utilizing marine resources based on blue economy principles.</span></p><p><span style="font-size: 15px;">The management of marine plastic debris is crucial, as more than 300 million tons of plastic are produced each year, and half of it is used for single-use items. At least 8 million tons of plastic enter our oceans annually. Plastic waste accounts for 80% of all marine debris, from surface waters to deep-sea sediments.</span></p><p><span style="font-size: 15px;">Meanwhile, sustainable marine governance involves the integrated implementation of policies, actions, and matters related to the seas of archipelagic and island states. It aims to protect the marine environment, ensure sustainable use of coastal and marine resources, and conserve biodiversity. Therefore, the AIS Forum began developing various innovations as fundamental principles in the form of smart and innovative solutions on several occasions following the declaration.</span></p><p><span style="font-size: 15px;">In its development, the AIS Forum has forged international partnerships to develop innovative solutions. These initiatives transform significant challenges into opportunities for innovation and creative thinking, such as the Seagrass Carbon Converter (SCC) web-based application. The AIS Forum Secretariat developed this application in collaboration with the Oceanography Research Center of the National Research and Innovation Agency (BRIN). It is designed to calculate carbon</span></p><p><span style="font-size: 15px;">reserves and absorption in seagrass</span></p><p><span style="font-size: 15px;">beds in coastal areas of AIS Forum participating countries.</span></p><p><span style="font-size: 15px;">Seagrass is a green plant that grows in shallow waters, between 0-10 meters deep and serves as one of the best carbon sinks and climate change regulators. Each hectare of seagrass meadow can absorb up to 6.59 tons of carbon per year.</span></p><p><span style="font-size: 15px;">SCC works by converting seagrass biomass, density, and coverage percentage into carbon stocks and absorption. The application can help all parties, especially archipelagic and island countries, understand the potential for the blue carbon balance of seagrass ecosystems.</span></p><p><span style="font-size: 15px;">Next, there is a mobile app called the Carbon Inventory for Seagrass Ecosystem (CISE). This app, developed by the AIS Forum and BRIN, is designed to assist stakeholders in reporting the potential of the blue carbon balance of seagrass ecosystems.</span></p><p><span style="font-size: 15px;">The app also monitors the level of carbon generated by seagrass in a particular area. The CISE application for Android and iOS operating systems was developed in 2021 to perform substantial material calculations.</span></p><p><span style="font-size: 15px;">There is also the Mangrove Health Index (MHI) application to measure the health of mangrove ecosystems. Mangroves can help stabilize coastal shorelines and reduce the impact of ocean currents, large waves, and even tsunamis by slowing down water flow and trapping sediment. With MHI, AIS countries are assisted in minimizing the impacts of rising sea levels.</span></p><p><span style="font-size: 15px;">There is another program called the Maritime and Aviation Search and Rescue Planning, a collaboration between the AIS Forum and the National Search and Rescue Agency (Basarnas) in the form of training. This program aims to provide technical knowledge and skills for planning search and rescue operations in accidents, disasters, and life-threatening conditions.</span></p><p><span style="font-size: 15px;">In this training, participants also learn to determine suspected incident locations, search areas, as well as personnel and equipment placement from Basarnas. This includes potential search and rescue requirements, as well as supporting facilities and infrastructure on land, at sea, and in the air. It also builds cross-sector coordination with search and rescue potentials and proper final reporting.</span></p><p><span style="font-size: 15px;">These innovative solutions are valuable to be implemented in archipelagic and island nations. Furthermore, the AIS Forum will hold the 1st High-Level Meeting (HLM) in Nusa Dua, Bali, on October 10 – 11. According to Usman Kansong, the Director General of Public Information and&nbsp;</span><span style="font-family: var(--bs-body-font-family); font-weight: var(--bs-body-font-weight); text-align: var(--bs-body-text-align);">Communications of the Ministry of&nbsp;</span><span style="font-family: var(--bs-body-font-family); font-size: var(--bs-body-font-size); font-weight: var(--bs-body-font-weight); text-align: var(--bs-body-text-align);">Communication and Informatics, 33 delegations from 29 participating countries and 4 international organizations have confirmed their attendance at the 1st HLM as of 8 October.</span></p><p><span style="font-size: 15px;">Of the 29 attending countries, 9 will be led directed by their respective heads of state, including President Wesley Simina of the Federated States of Micronesia and the prime ministers of Niue, Sao Tome and Principe, Timor-Leste, and Tuvalu. Additionally, Fiji, Tonga, Papua New Guinea, and Vanuatu will be represented by their deputy prime ministers. "The rest will send their ministers, deputy ministers, and ambassadors," Usman said.</span></p><p><span style="font-size: 15px;">The 1st High-Level Meeting of the AIS Forum will be officially opened by President Joko Widodo in the Nusa Dua Convention Centre, Nusa Dua, Badung, Bali, on October 11. (Anton/TR/Elvira Inda Sari/WS/WW)</span></p><p style="text-align: center; "><span style="font-size: 15px;">***</span></p><p><span style="font-size: 15px;"><i><b>About AIS Forum:</b></i></span></p><p><span style="font-size: 15px;"><i>The Archipelagic and Island States (AIS) Forum is a global platform for cooperation among island and archipelagic states that aims at strengthening collaboration to address global issues with four main areas of focus: climate change mitigation and adaptation, the blue economy, marine plastic debris, and good maritime governance. The 2023 High-Level Meeting of the AIS Forum is organized to reinforce the role of the AIS Forum as a center for smart &amp; innovative solutions and a platform for collaboration in promoting the future agenda of global maritime governance.</i></span></p><p><span style="font-size: 15px;">For more information, please contact:</span></p><p><span style="font-size: 15px;"><b>Thomas Benmetan, Head of Marketing &amp; Communication, AIS Forum Secretariat (thomas.benmetan@undp.org).</b></span></p><p><span style="font-size: 15px;">Get more information on press releases, news, photos, and videos related to the 2023 HLM of the AIS Forum at </span><a href="https://s.id/aispedia.">https://s.id/aispedia.</a><span style="font-size: 15px;">&nbsp; &nbsp;</span></p><p><i>Foto caption:&nbsp;Several delegations from various countries attend the AIS Youth Conference 2023 in Nusa Dua, Badung, Bali, Friday, 6 October 2023. The event, which carries the theme "Bridging the Waves for the Ocean Future We Want," is part of the 2023 High-Level Meeting of the Archipelagic and Island States (AIS) Forum in Bali. It involves 30 youth participants from 29 countries from October 6 – 11. ANTARA FOTO/Nyoman Hendra Wibowo/rwa.</i></p>

AIS Forum Fosters Innovations in Archipelagic and Island States

Badung, 9 October 2023 – The Archipelagic and Island States (AIS) Forum is committed to support the development, implementation, and replication of smart and innovative solutions to accelerate the efforts of archipelagic and island states in achieving a sustainable ocean future. In 2018, 21...

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<p><span style="font-family: var(--bs-body-font-family); text-align: var(--bs-body-text-align);"><b>Badung, 9 October 2023</b></span><span style="font-family: var(--bs-body-font-family); font-weight: var(--bs-body-font-weight); text-align: var(--bs-body-text-align);"> - The Archipelagic and Island States (AIS) Forum's presence will complement the existing major international organizations such as ASEAN, the European Union, and the G20.</span><br></p><p><span style="font-size: 15px;">The AIS Forum, like ASEAN, has concrete goals rather than abstract goals. Therefore, when Indonesia initiated the AIS Forum, the aim was to include archipelagic and island states in a concrete cooperation framework.</span></p><p><span style="font-size: 15px;">This was stated by Odo Manuhutu, Deputy for Tourism and Creative Economy of the Coordinating Ministry for Maritime Affairs and Investment, during a media gathering event in Nusa Dua, Bali, on Sunday, 8 October.</span></p><p><span style="font-size: 15px;">Odo highlighted that the AIS Forum did not seek to compete with the EU, ASEAN, or the UN but to see how the AIS Forum might complement large forums or organizations worldwide.</span></p><p><span style="font-size: 15px;">Aside from that, Odo said, the impact of the AIS Forum will not be felt in the short term, e.g. one, two, or five years. However, because the AIS Forum has a long-term effect, the impact on Indonesia and the world will be felt in the following 10—15 years.</span></p><p><span style="font-size: 15px;">“So, it is for the next 10 to 15 years, because within the state and national context, the cabinet is laying the foundation. The benefit for Indonesia now is that we are demonstrating to the international community that one of the mandates outlined in the Preamble to the 1945 Constitution is to contribute to world peace and security. We have indeed developed ASEAN. Now is the time for Indonesia to develop new ideas, such as the AIS Forum, which is highly focused on non-political issues,” said Odo.</span></p><p><span style="font-size: 15px;">According to Odo, many developing countries, particularly those in the Pacific region, believe that the AIS Forum is concrete cooperation, rather than an abstract forum that cannot be applied in practice.</span></p><p><span style="font-size: 15px;">"We all hope that in the next 20 years, the AIS Forum will be a solid, concrete, and non-condescending organization. The goal is to avoid patronizing. Several international organizations have been disbanded, one of which was due to patronage. We are all friends, and we all have flaws, so let us work together," Odo remarked. (Ismadi/Elvira Inda Sari/SC/FLW)</span></p><p style="text-align: center; "><span style="font-size: 15px;">***</span></p><p><span style="font-size: 15px;"><i><b>About AIS Forum:</b></i></span></p><p><span style="font-size: 15px;"><i>The Archipelagic and Island States (AIS) Forum is a global platform for cooperation among island and archipelagic states that aims at strengthening collaboration to address global issues with four main areas of focus: climate change mitigation and adaptation, the blue economy, marine plastic debris, and good maritime governance. The 2023 High-Level Meeting of the AIS Forum is organized to reinforce the role of the AIS Forum as a center for smart and innovative solutions and a platform for collaboration in promoting the future agenda of global maritime governance.</i></span></p><p><span style="font-size: 15px;">For more information, please contact:</span></p><p><span style="font-size: 15px;"><b>Thomas Benmetan, Head of Marketing &amp; Communication, Sekretariat AIS Forum (thomas.benmetan@undp.org).</b></span></p><p><span style="font-size: 15px;">Get more information on press releases, news, photos, and videos related to the 2023 HLM of the&nbsp;</span><span style="font-family: var(--bs-body-font-family); font-weight: var(--bs-body-font-weight); text-align: var(--bs-body-text-align);">AIS Forum at </span><a href="https://s.id/aispedia." style="font-family: var(--bs-body-font-family); font-size: var(--bs-body-font-size); font-weight: var(--bs-body-font-weight); text-align: var(--bs-body-text-align);">https://s.id/aispedia.</a><span style="font-family: var(--bs-body-font-family); font-weight: var(--bs-body-font-weight); text-align: var(--bs-body-text-align);">&nbsp;</span></p><p><i><span style="font-size: 15px;">Foto caption:&nbsp;</span><span style="text-align: var(--bs-body-text-align); font-size: 15px;">Odo Manuhutu, Deputy for Tourism and Creative Economy of the Coordinating Ministry for Maritime Affairs and Investment, speaks at the media gathering event at Bali International Convention Center, in Nusa Dua, Bali, on Sunday, 8 October 2023.</span></i></p>

AIS Forum’s Concrete Goals Complement Existing International Organizations

Badung, 9 October 2023 - The Archipelagic and Island States (AIS) Forum's presence will complement the existing major international organizations such as ASEAN, the European Union, and the G20.The AIS Forum, like ASEAN, has concrete goals rather than abstract goals. Therefore, when Indonesia...

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<p><span style="font-family: var(--bs-body-font-family); text-align: var(--bs-body-text-align);"><b>Badung, 9 October 2023</b></span><span style="font-family: var(--bs-body-font-family); font-weight: var(--bs-body-font-weight); text-align: var(--bs-body-text-align);"> - Coastal areas serve as a defense barrier from the sea to the land. As a barrier, these regions should stand firm. One of the determinants of a strong barrier is the mangroves. These plants, which form coastal forest areas, are known to have many benefits in preventing coastal damage. Mangroves are a collection of plants that can grow in alluvial mud in coastal and river mouth areas. Their existence depends on the ebb and flow of seawater. Mangroves, also known as "bakau," play a crucial role in maintaining the environmental balance, including providing nutrients to aquatic life, purifying water, and regulating saltwater salinity. </span></p><p><span style="font-family: var(--bs-body-font-family); font-weight: var(--bs-body-font-weight); text-align: var(--bs-body-text-align);">Mangroves can also prevent coastal erosion, reduce the impact of tidal waves, and mitigate the adverse effects of tsunamis. All these benefits can be realized if healthy and well-maintained mangrove forests protect the coastal areas. Aside from serving as coastal protectors, mangroves offer another significant benefit, which is their ability to as they can absorb carbon dioxide (CO2) to mitigate climate change. </span></p><p><span style="font-family: var(--bs-body-font-family); font-weight: var(--bs-body-font-weight); text-align: var(--bs-body-text-align);">Mangroves are a significant carbon sink and help reduce greenhouse gas emissions, which is the current focus of the government. With the ability to absorb 77% more carbon than terrestrial vegetation like forests, mangroves store the carbon underwater (blue carbon). Indonesia's blue carbon potential currently reaches 3.4 gigatons, or approximately 17% of the world's blue carbon. </span></p><p><span style="font-family: var(--bs-body-font-family); font-weight: var(--bs-body-font-weight); text-align: var(--bs-body-text-align);">The official website of the Ministry of Maritime Affairs and Fisheries (KKP) states that Indonesia has the world's largest mangrove ecosystem, covering 3,364,080 hectares or about 22.6% of the total global mangrove forest area. The Government of Indonesia aims to expand mangrove areas to 600,000 hectares by 2024 due to the immense benefits of mangroves for coastal regions and climate change mitigation.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: var(--bs-body-font-family); font-weight: var(--bs-body-font-weight); text-align: var(--bs-body-text-align);">This effort aligns with Presidential Regulation Number 120 of 2020 concerning the Peatland and Mangrove Restoration Agency. Through the expansion, mangrove rehabilitation and restoration targets are expected to be realized simultaneously. Achieving mangrove rehabilitation and restoration targets requires more than strong government policies and commitments. It also requires support from stakeholders concerned about preserving and utilizing these coastal ecosystems.</span><br></p><p><span style="font-size: 15px;">One of the ways to preserve mangrove ecosystems is through the adoption of technology, as the one implemented by the National Research and Innovation Agency (BRIN) through the Monitoring Mangrove (MonMang), an advanced digital technology-based application for monitoring mangrove forests. This monitoring application utilizes artificial intelligence (AI), namely the Automated Mangrove Species Identification (AMSI). </span></p><p><span style="font-size: 15px;">Wayan Eka Dharmawan, a researcher from the Oceanography Research Center (P2O) at BRIN, explained on Monday, 9 October, in Jakarta that MonMang aims to promote the importance of the Mangrove Health Index (MHI) in mangrove governance in Indonesia. This application is the world's first app developed for monitoring mangroves. MonMang was funded by the Archipelagic and Island States (AIS) Forum, which involves 51 participating countries and various institutions from different states.</span></p><p><span style="font-size: 15px;">To ensure that MonMang benefits a wide range of users, its use is not limited to researchers alone. It can also be utilized by the general public interested in mangrove conservation and science. According to Wayan, MonMang was developed to address the research activities of various institutions that were conducted separately, with the monitoring data also stored separately. </span></p><p><span style="font-size: 15px;">Additionally, different institutions used different methods and standards for monitoring mangrove forests. Consequently, the data generated could not be compared with other data. The final issue was the differing standards used in monitoring mangrove forests. Given these challenges, there was a need for a platform to unify mangrove monitoring in an integrated manner. </span></p><p><span style="font-size: 15px;">The team of Wayan Eka Dharmawan previously introduced MonMang during a side event of the 2022 AIS Forum, The Blue Innovation Solution Conference at Bali International Convention Center (BICC) in the integrated tourism area of Nusa Dua, Badung Regency, Bali, 5 December 2022. The application can be downloaded on mobile phones through open platforms such as the AppStore and the Playstore because it has adopted Android and IOS operating systems.&nbsp;</span><span style="font-family: var(--bs-body-font-family); font-weight: var(--bs-body-font-weight); text-align: var(--bs-body-text-align);">The application is also claimed to be user-friendly and easy to use for anyone.</span></p><p><span style="font-size: 15px;">However, training and certification are required to add mangrove forest monitoring data to the existing database in MonMang. MonMang incorporates several features that can be utilized by users, such as AMSI for mangrove species identification. Users can simply take a photo of a mangrove using the camera feature of AMSI, and information about the mangrove species will instantly appear on the phone's screen. </span></p><p><span style="font-size: 15px;">The AMSI feature provides a new experience for users to understand the spatial and temporal distribution of several analytical values, such as the Mangrove Health Index (MHI), carbon stock, and functional vegetation index. It also has a Learning Centre feature. "This feature is for beginners, citizen scientists, journalists, students, and the general public. It contains educational materials&nbsp;</span><span style="font-family: var(--bs-body-font-family); font-weight: var(--bs-body-font-weight); text-align: var(--bs-body-text-align);">introducing mangrove forests. All this information is readily available on the phone's screen. Therefore, there is no need for one to be a mangrove expert to learn about the details," Wayan Eka explained.</span></p><p><span style="font-size: 15px;">Since its development in 2014, the current MonMang is the third version. Each version undergoes data updates, and a mangrove database was established in the third version. MonMang has also been introduced to authorities in the coastal areas of Fiji. It has even been tested for monitoring mangrove areas in Suva, Fiji. "MonMang app users are not only from Indonesia but also from countries like Germany, Japan, the United Arab Emirates, and many more," he added. </span></p><p><span style="font-size: 15px;">Wayan stated that MonMang was presented to senior officials of the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) in Indonesia on 15 May. According to him, this application cannot stand alone and requires collaboration with various institutions. This is to ensure that the database inside can always be updated and used as an educational medium for anyone. </span></p><p><span style="font-size: 15px;">The creation of the MonMang app carried out by BRIN aligns with the spirit of solidarity embraced by the AIS Forum for a sustainable future of the seas. Since its formation on 1 November 2018, through the Manado Joint Declaration, the AIS Forum consistently strives to strengthen cooperation and active collaboration without regard to territorial boundaries, socioeconomic conditions, or development levels. </span></p><p><span style="font-size: 15px;">The forum will hold its 1st High-Level Meeting in Bali on 10 – 11 October. This will serve as an appropriate platform to emphasize the importance of collaboration and solidarity, strengthened at the level of heads of state/government. (Anton Setiawan/Elvira Inda Sari/IF/WW) </span></p><p style="text-align: center; "><span style="font-size: 15px;">***</span></p><p><span style="font-size: 15px;"><i><b>About AIS Forum:</b></i></span> <br class="Apple-interchange-newline"></p><p><span style="font-size: 15px;"><i>The Archipelagic and Island States (AIS) Forum is a global platform for cooperation among island and archipelagic states that aims at strengthening collaboration to address global issues with four main areas of focus: climate change mitigation and adaptation, the blue economy, marine plastic debris, and good maritime governance. The 2023 High-Level Meeting of the AIS Forum is organized to reinforce the role of the AIS Forum as a center for smart &amp; innovative solutions and a platform for collaboration in promoting the future agenda of global maritime governance.</i></span></p><p><span style="font-size: 15px;">For more information, please contact:</span></p><p><span style="font-size: 15px;"><b>Thomas Benmetan, Head of Marketing &amp; Communication of the AIS Forum Secretariat (thomas.benmetan@undp.org).</b></span></p><p><span style="font-size: 15px;">Get more press releases, news, photos, and videos related to the 2023 HLM of the AIS Forum at </span><a href="https://s.id/aispedia.">https://s.id/aispedia.</a><span style="font-size: 15px;">&nbsp;</span></p><div><i>Foto caption:&nbsp;Archipelagic and Island States (AIS) Forum launches the AIS Blue Hub and AIS Research and Development Center as the side events of the 1st High-Level Meeting (HLM) of the AIS Forum at Mulia Hotel, Nusa Dua, Badung Regency, Bali, Monday, 9 October 2023.</i></div>

AIS Forum Participates in Preserving Mangrove Ecosystem through MonMang

Badung, 9 October 2023 - Coastal areas serve as a defense barrier from the sea to the land. As a barrier, these regions should stand firm. One of the determinants of a strong barrier is the mangroves. These plants, which form coastal forest areas, are known to have many benefits in preventing...

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<p><span style="font-family: var(--bs-body-font-family); text-align: var(--bs-body-text-align); font-size: var(--bs-body-font-size);"><b>Badung, 9 October 2023</b></span><span style="font-family: var(--bs-body-font-family); font-weight: var(--bs-body-font-weight); text-align: var(--bs-body-text-align); font-size: var(--bs-body-font-size);"> – The Ministry of Marine Affairs and Fisheries (MMAF) has just launched the Lamun (Seagrass) Blue Carbon Mitigation Action Profile at the side events of the 1st High-Level Meeting of the AIS Forum, on Monday, 9 October, in Bali.&nbsp;</span><br></p><p>The launching of this document is a part of the government’s strategy to address climate change and increase blue carbon potential.&nbsp;</p><p>This was said by the Minister of Marine Affairs and Fisheries, Sakti Wahyu Trenggono, during the Archipelagic and Island States Blue Economy High-Level Dialogue held on the same day.&nbsp;</p><p>Trenggono mentioned that as the owner of 17 percent of the world’s blue carbon reserves, Indonesia has a great opportunity to utilize blue carbon ecosystems as one of the solutions to address climate change.&nbsp;</p><p>“The Lamun Blue Carbon Mitigation Action Profile will also serve as a roadmap for Indonesia’s effort to conserve and restore blue carbon habitats, increasing carbon storage potential for the benefit of our planet and future generations," said Minister Trenggono.&nbsp;</p><p>Blue carbon ecosystems play a significant role for coastal communities whose living space and livelihoods are highly affected by climate-related coastal risks, such as extreme weather, storms, erosions, and floods. These risks can also lead to negative socio-economic impacts, a threat to biodiversity, and a decrease in ecosystem services that affect the survival of humans and nature.&nbsp;</p><p>“To address the complex issues of climate change, we need diverse commitments and solutions. The Lamun Blue Carbon Mitigation Action Profile will be part of Indonesia’s enhanced Nationally Determined Contribution (NDC) target for greenhouse gas emission reductions and serves as a roadmap to set the pace for a more sustainable and resilient future," Trenggono added.&nbsp;</p><p>In the Lamun Blue Carbon Mitigation Action Profile, Indonesia will focus on regulatory interventions for marine space utilization and seagrass restoration. As a result, a significant reduction in carbon emissions can be achieved by 2030.&nbsp;</p><p>In addition, MMAF also encourages the community to participate and be actively involved in seagrass protection and data collection efforts.&nbsp;</p><p>“To support this effort, a user-friendly application and the Blue Carbon Room, a centralized space to monitor blue carbon activities in Indonesia, are currently being developed," said Trenggono.&nbsp;</p><p>Indonesia is home to around 11.5 percent of the world’s seagrasses. Therefore, the development of blue carbon in Indonesia needs to incorporate seagrass ecosystems as an important part of the blue carbon buffer.&nbsp;</p><p>Therefore, seagrass ecosystems will also be an efficient nature-based solution for climate change mitigation because they can store carbon reserves three times higher than the equivalent area of terrestrial forests.&nbsp;</p><p>The Seagrass Blue Carbon Mitigation Action Profile, which is a collaboration between MMAF and the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) Indonesia, contains the results of emission reduction calculations from seagrass ecosystems that aim to preserve and restore blue carbon habitats and increase carbon storage potential.&nbsp;</p><p>On various occasions, Trenggono underscored that MMAF also continues to emphasize the importance of creating a healthy, safe, resilient, and productive ocean for the welfare of the nation through maritime diplomacy and cooperation with various countries to realize a blue economy development strategy that focuses on ecological considerations. (KKP Public Relations/TR/Elvira Inda Sari/AAN/FLW)&nbsp;</p><p style="text-align: center; ">***&nbsp;</p><p><i><b>About AIS Forum:&nbsp;</b></i></p><p><i>The Archipelagic and Island States (AIS) Forum is a global platform for cooperation among island and archipelagic states that aims at strengthening collaboration to address global issues with four main areas of focus: climate change mitigation and adaptation, the blue economy, marine plastic debris, and good maritime governance. The 2023 High-Level Meeting of the AIS Forum is organized to reinforce the role of the AIS Forum as a center for smart and innovative solutions and a platform for collaboration in promoting the future agenda of global maritime governance.&nbsp;</i></p><p>For more information, please contact:&nbsp;</p><p><b>Director General of Public Information and Communications of the Ministry of Communications and Informatics – Usman Kansong (0816785320).&nbsp;</b></p><p>Get more information at https://infopublik.id and <a href="https://s.id/aispedia">https://s.id/aispedia</a>&nbsp;</p><div><i>Foto caption:&nbsp;Ministry of Marine Affairs and Fisheries (MMAF) launched the Lamun Blue Carbon Mitigation Action Profile during the side events of the 2023 High-Level Meeting of the Archipelagic and Island States Forum, on Monday, 9 October, in Bali. The statement was conveyed by Minister of Marine Affairs and Fisheries, Sakti Wahyu Trenggono, at the Archipelagic and Island States Blue Economy High-Level Dialogue. (Communications and Media Team of the 2023 HLM of the AIS Forum)</i></div>

Seagrass Blue Carbon Mitigation Action Profile: Solution to Address Climate Change

Badung, 9 October 2023 – The Ministry of Marine Affairs and Fisheries (MMAF) has just launched the Lamun (Seagrass) Blue Carbon Mitigation Action Profile at the side events of the 1st High-Level Meeting of the AIS Forum, on Monday, 9 October, in Bali.&nbsp;The launching of this document is a part...

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<p><span style="font-family: var(--bs-body-font-family); text-align: var(--bs-body-text-align);"><b>Badung, 9 October 2023 </b></span><span style="font-family: var(--bs-body-font-family); font-weight: var(--bs-body-font-weight); text-align: var(--bs-body-text-align);">– The Archipelagic and Island States (AIS) Forum launched the AIS Blue Hub and the AIS Research and Development (RnD) Center programs as side events of the 1st High-Level Meeting (HLM) of the AIS Forum at Hotel Mulia, Nusa Dua, Badung Regency, Bali, Monday, 9 October 2023.</span><br></p><p><span style="font-size: 15px;">The Head of the AIS Forum Secretariat Riny Modaso stated that the two programs are derived from the AIS Forum's mission to provide innovative solutions in the blue economy and academic fields.</span></p><p><span style="font-size: 15px;">The Forum pioneers and accommodates innovative solutions implemented into various programs to achieve sustainable development goals for the future of the archipelagic and island countries.</span></p><p><span style="font-size: 15px;">The Blue Hub and the AIS RnD Center were launched by the Indonesian Minister of Environment and Forestry Siti Nurbaya Bakar and the Head of the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) Resident Representative in Indonesia Norimasa Shimomura. Representatives from various AIS countries, businesses, academics, and participants from diverse backgrounds also attended the launch ceremony.</span></p><p><span style="font-size: 15px;">"We hope that these programs can accommodate and facilitate blue innovators, academics, and entrepreneurs. Together, we will build and develop the blue sector," said Riny.</span></p><p><span style="font-size: 15px;">The AIS Blue Hub, previously known as the AIS Startup Blue Hub, was launched to facilitate bluepreneurs to develop their businesses. Meanwhile, the AIS RnD Center is a centralized implementation of research and development programs already conducted by the AIS Forum.</span></p><p><span style="font-size: 15px;">The launch of these two AIS Forum programs is the opening of a series of events at the 2023 HLM of the AIS Forum, which includes the Blue Economy High-Level Dialogue, the AIS Startup Blue Business Summit, and the AIS Research and Development Conference. (AIS Forum Secretariat/Budiana/Elvira Indah Sari)</span></p><p style="text-align: center; "><span style="font-family: var(--bs-body-font-family); font-weight: var(--bs-body-font-weight); text-align: var(--bs-body-text-align);">***</span><br></p><p><span style="font-family: var(--bs-body-font-family); font-weight: var(--bs-body-font-weight); text-align: var(--bs-body-text-align);"><i>About AIS Forum:</i></span></p><p><span style="font-size: 15px;"><i>The Archipelagic and Island States (AIS) Forum is a global platform for cooperation among island and archipelagic states that aims at strengthening collaboration to address global issues with four main areas of focus: climate change mitigation and adaptation, the blue economy, marine plastic waste management, and good maritime governance. The 2023 High-Level Meeting of the AIS Forum is organized to reinforce the role of the AIS Forum as a center for smart &amp; innovative solutions and a platform for collaboration in promoting the future agenda of global maritime governance.</i></span></p><p><span style="font-family: var(--bs-body-font-family); font-weight: var(--bs-body-font-weight); text-align: var(--bs-body-text-align);">For more information please contact:&nbsp;</span><br></p><p><span style="font-family: var(--bs-body-font-family); text-align: var(--bs-body-text-align);"><b>Thomas Benmetan, Head of Marketing &amp; Communication, AIS Forum Secretariat (thomas.benmetan@undp.org).</b></span><br></p><p><span style="font-family: var(--bs-body-font-family); font-weight: var(--bs-body-font-weight); text-align: var(--bs-body-text-align);">Get more information on press releases, news, photos, and videos related to the 2023 HLM of the AIS Forum at </span><a href="https://s.id/aispedia.">https://s.id/aispedia.</a></p><p><span style="text-align: var(--bs-body-text-align);"><i><font face="var(--bs-body-font-family)"><span style="font-weight: var(--bs-body-font-weight);">Foto caption: </span></font><span style="font-size: 15px;">Archipelagic and Island States (AIS) Forum launches the AIS Blue Hub and the AIS RnD Center programs as side events of the 1st High-Level Meeting of the AIS Forum at Hotel Mulia, Nusa Dua, Badung Regency, Bali, Monday, 9 October 2023.</span></i><br></span></p>

1st HLM of the AIS Forum Launches the AIS Blue Hub and RnD Programs

Badung, 9 October 2023 – The Archipelagic and Island States (AIS) Forum launched the AIS Blue Hub and the AIS Research and Development (RnD) Center programs as side events of the 1st High-Level Meeting (HLM) of the AIS Forum at Hotel Mulia, Nusa Dua, Badung Regency, Bali, Monday, 9 October...

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<p><span style="font-family: var(--bs-body-font-family); text-align: var(--bs-body-text-align);"><b>Badung, 9 October 2023</b></span><span style="font-family: var(--bs-body-font-family); font-weight: var(--bs-body-font-weight); text-align: var(--bs-body-text-align);"> - The 2023 High-Level Meeting (HLM) of the Archipelagic and Island States Forum is the momentum for a joint movement to build the global blue economy.</span><br></p><p><span style="font-size: 15px;">The blue economy will be a driving force for economic recovery and transformation by adhering to environmental sustainability.</span></p><p><span style="font-size: 15px;">This was emphasized by the Deputy for Tourism and Creative Economy of the Coordinating Ministry for Maritime Affairs and Investment, Odo Manuhutu, during a media gathering in Nusa Dua, Bali, on Sunday evening, 8 October.</span></p><p><span style="font-size: 15px;">"We may not feel the benefits of the forum right now, but in the next 10 to 15 years, this forum will make a real contribution to the world, including Indonesia," he said.</span></p><p><span style="font-size: 15px;">To achieve a more sustainable future for the ocean, he continued that island and archipelagic countries needed to develop nature-based smart and innovative solutions.</span></p><p><span style="font-size: 15px;">He also hoped that the 2023 HLM of the AIS Forum could foster solid collaboration in efforts to address multi-faceted challenges in the region.</span></p><p><span style="font-size: 15px;">Therefore, Odo emphasized the importance of collaboration to overcome the common challenges faced by AIS countries, especially in four areas, namely climate change mitigation and adaptation, blue economy development, marine plastic debris management, and good maritime governance.</span></p><p><span style="font-size: 15px;">At the same time, Director General of Public Information and Communications of the Ministry of Communications and Informatics, Usman Kansong, added that the meeting agenda will focus on three important aspects, namely blue economic development, climate change challenge, and strengthening solidarity among island and archipelagic countries.</span></p><p><span style="font-size: 15px;">"Mr. Odo has stated that through this forum we want to build solidarity among island and archipelagic countries to overcome threats to the environment because if an environmental disaster occurs, the first to be affected are the island countries. For example, several island countries are predicted to sink if global warming cannot be overcome. So, we want to build solidarity among island and archipelagic countries in restoring environmental conditions in the world while improving the blue economy. It will help boost economic growth, through a sustainable blue economy," he said.</span></p><p><span style="font-size: 15px;">Assistant Deputy for Maritime Zones and Border Areas Delimitation of the Coordinating Ministry for Maritime Affairs and Investment, Sora Lokita, at the same time also said that the 1st HLM would be a milestone for awareness for all elements of society and stakeholders to have real solutions to face the threat of climate change which had brought a major impact in the maritime sector.</span></p><p><span style="font-size: 15px;">“The 1st HLM emphasizes the main principles, namely interdependence, mutual aid, and mutual benefit. This is adapted from the concept of cooperation which unites communities as island and archipelagic countries," he explained.</span></p><p><span style="font-size: 15px;">Based on similarities in geographic conditions and challenges, the 1st HLM is an important platform for island and archipelagic countries to share information and find solutions to common challenges, such as climate change, marine governance, and pollution.</span></p><p><span style="font-size: 15px;">"We have to be in a forum where we can exchange ideas, share the best experiences, share knowledge, and we have to look after each other in this context," said Sora Lokita. (Ismadi/TR/Elvira Inda Sari/S/FLW)</span></p><p style="text-align: center; "><span style="font-size: 15px;">***</span></p><p><span style="font-size: 15px;"><i><b>About AIS Forum:</b></i></span></p><p><span style="font-size: 15px;"><i>The Archipelagic and Island States (AIS) Forum is a global platform for cooperation among island and archipelagic states that aims at strengthening collaboration to address global issues with four main areas of focus: climate change mitigation and adaptation, the blue economy, marine plastic debris, and good maritime governance. The 2023 High-Level Meeting of the AIS Forum is organized to reinforce the role of the AIS Forum as a center for smart &amp; innovative solutions and a platform for collaboration in promoting the future agenda of global maritime governance.</i></span></p><p><span style="font-size: 15px;">For more information, please contact:</span></p><p><span style="font-size: 15px;"><b>Director General of Public Information and Communications of the Ministry of Communications and Informatics – Usman Kansong (0816785320).</b></span></p><p><span style="font-size: 15px;">Get more press releases, news, photos, and videos related to the 2023 HLM of the AIS Forum at </span><a href="https://s.id/aispedia.">https://s.id/aispedia.</a><span style="font-size: 15px;">&nbsp;</span></p><p><i><span style="font-size: 15px;">Foto caption:&nbsp;</span><span style="text-align: var(--bs-body-text-align); font-size: 15px;">Deputy for Tourism and Creative Economy of the Coordinating Ministry for Maritime Affairs and Investment, Odo Manuhutu, speaks at a media gathering in Bali International Convention Center, Nusa Dua, Bali, on Sunday evening, 8 October 2023.</span></i></p>

2023 HLM of AIS Forum: Momentum to Promote Blue Economy

Badung, 9 October 2023 - The 2023 High-Level Meeting (HLM) of the Archipelagic and Island States Forum is the momentum for a joint movement to build the global blue economy.The blue economy will be a driving force for economic recovery and transformation by adhering to environmental...

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<p><span style="font-family: var(--bs-body-font-family); font-size: var(--bs-body-font-size); text-align: var(--bs-body-text-align);"><b>Badung, 8 October 2023 </b></span><span style="font-family: var(--bs-body-font-family); font-size: var(--bs-body-font-size); font-weight: var(--bs-body-font-weight); text-align: var(--bs-body-text-align);">- Prime Minister (PM) of the Democratic Republic of Sao Tome and Principe Patrice Emery Trovoada will attend the 1st High-Level Meeting (HLM) of the Archipelagic and Island States (AIS) Forum in Nusa Dua, Badung Regency, Bali on 10 – 11 October.</span><br></p><p>PM Patrice Emery Trovoada arrived in Bali at approximately 5:00 PM local time on Sunday, 8 October. He was warmly welcomed by the Indonesian Minister of Environment and Forestry Siti Nurbaya at I Gusti Ngurah Rai Airport, Bali.</p><p>A few minutes later, Norimasa Shimomura, the Resident Representative of the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) in Indonesia, also set foot at I Gusti Ngurah Rai Airport. Shimomura's arrival was also to attend the 1st HLM of the AIS Forum.</p><p>Norimasa Shimomura arrived on Batik Air flight number ID 6518 at around 5:20 PM local time.</p><p>Both guests were greeted by the Cordon Unit, a military police unit under the Presidential Security Detail (Paspampres). The Cordon Unit consists of elite military personnel from the Indonesian National Armed Forces (TNI), who serve as ceremonial guards during state protocol events.</p><p>The responsibilities of the Cordon Unit include rendering military honors to the state guest dignitaries, such as giving gun salutes, opening the doors of the delegates’ vehicles, and escorting them from the entrance to their seats.</p><p>Following the reception by the Cordon Unit, Prime Minister Patrice Emery Trovoada was treated to a performance by several Balinese girls showcasing the Pendet Dance, a traditional Balinese welcoming dance. The Pendet Dance is typically performed in various religious and cultural ceremonies in Bali. Aside from serving as a welcoming dance, Pendet also serves as an offering to the gods.</p><p>The Pendet Dance holds great significance in Bali's cultural heritage, and its performance often becomes a deeply sacred and beautiful moment in religious and cultural ceremonies on the island. (Tri Antoro/TR/Elvira Inda Sari/IF/WW) </p><p style="text-align: center; ">***</p><p><i><b>About AIS Forum:</b></i></p><p><i>The Archipelagic and Island States (AIS) Forum is a global platform for cooperation among island and archipelagic states that aims at strengthening collaboration to address global issues with four main areas of focus: climate change mitigation and adaptation, the blue economy, marine plastic waste management, and good maritime governance. The 2023 High-Level Meeting of the AIS Forum is organized to reinforce the role of the AIS Forum as a center for smart &amp; innovative solutions and a platform for collaboration in promoting the future agenda of global maritime governance.</i></p><p>For more information please contact:</p><p><b>Thomas Benmetan, Head of Marketing &amp; Communication, AIS Forum Secretariat&nbsp;<span style="font-family: var(--bs-body-font-family); font-size: var(--bs-body-font-size); text-align: var(--bs-body-text-align);">(thomas.benmetan@undp.org).</span></b></p><p>Get more information on press releases, news, photos, and videos related to the 2023 HLM of the AIS Forum at <a href="https://s.id/aispedia.">https://s.id/aispedia.</a></p><p><i>Foto caption:&nbsp;Prime Minister of the Democratic Republic of Sao Tome and Principe Patrice Emery Trovoada (center), with his wife Nana Oumu Toure Trovoada (left), are welcomed by the Indonesian Minister of Environment and Forestry Siti Nurbaya Bakar (right), upon their arrival at I Gusti Ngurah Rai International Airport, Badung, Bali, Sunday, 8 October 2023. Patrice Emery Trovoada arrived in Bali to attend the 1st High-Level Meeting (HLM) of the Archipelagic and Island States (AIS) Forum in Nusa Dua, Bali, on 10 – 11 October. (The 2023 HLM of the AIS Forum Media Center/Fikri Yusuf/pras).</i></p>

Prime Minister of Sao Tome and Principe Attends the 2023 HLM of the AIS Forum in Bali

Badung, 8 October 2023 - Prime Minister (PM) of the Democratic Republic of Sao Tome and Principe Patrice Emery Trovoada will attend the 1st High-Level Meeting (HLM) of the Archipelagic and Island States (AIS) Forum in Nusa Dua, Badung Regency, Bali on 10 – 11 October.PM Patrice Emery Trovoada...

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