Webinar World Water Day 2025, preserving our glaciers - Chile EN
Webinar World Water Day 2025, preserving our glaciers
In 2025, Chile and the Netherlands proudly celebrate 200 years of diplomatic relations, a testament to the enduring partnership and mutual respect between these two nations. As part of this special milestone, both countries came together to host a webinar in recognition of World Water Day March 22nd, addressing an issue of shared significance: the preservation of glaciers and water towers in the face of climate change. Chile, with its vast array of glaciers, and the Netherlands, located at the end of many glacial river systems, are acutely aware of the challenges posed by these changes.
Save our glaciers
The webinar served as an important platform to exchange knowledge,
deepen understanding, and promote solutions to counteract the impact
of glacial retreat.
The event featured an outstanding panel
of experts. Mrs. Silvia Saravia from the Economic Commission
for Latin America and the Caribbean (ECLAC) provided a
comprehensive overview of the situation across Latin America,
highlighting regional challenges and opportunities. Renowned
glaciologist Dr. Peter Kuipers Munneke offered a global
perspective, explaining the scientific realities of glacier dynamics
in a warming world. From Chile, Mr. Jorge Huenante of the
Ministry of Public Works shared efforts to monitor and
conserve the nation’s glaciers, while Ms. Constanza Espinosa
from the foundation Glaciares Chilenos detailed her
organization’s initiatives to raise awareness and foster a culture of
protection.
The participation of both ambassadors underscored
the importance of international collaboration.
Mrs. Elke Merks-Schaapveld, the Netherlands’
ambassador in Chile, opened the webinar by
emphasizing the necessity of collective action to mitigate and
adapt to the effects of climate change. Chile’s ambassador
to the Netherlands, Mr. Jorge Carvajal, closed the event
by reaffirming the warm ties between the two nations and their
shared commitment to addressing global water and climate challenges.
This initiative demonstrates the profound value of bilateral
cooperation in tackling urgent global issues. By combining their
strengths, Chile and the Netherlands illustrate how international
partnerships can lead to actionable solutions and greater awareness.
The preservation of glaciers and water resources is not only a
regional concern but a global imperative—one that requires the joint
efforts of governments, organizations, and individuals.
As we
commemorate this bicentennial, let us also reflect on the
responsibility we share to protect our planet for future generations.
Together, through knowledge, collaboration, and unwavering commitment, we can ensure a more sustainable future.
