The Pre-Amazon Summit was attended by Ministers representing six out of the eight Amazon Cooperation Treaty countries, demonstrating the paramount importance placed by the region, under the leadership of Colombia and Brazil, on revitalising regional cooperation for the protection of the Amazon. The event concluded with a closing session led by President Gustavo Petro of Colombia and President Ignacio Lula da Silva of Brazil, who were joined by their respective Ministers of Foreign Affairs. This strong representation underscores the significance of these discussions in the context of the Amazon Cooperation Treaty Organization (ACTO/OCTA).

In his address, Commissioner Sinkevičius reiterated the EU's commitment to collaborate with Amazon countries in safeguarding and sustainably developing the region, including implementing deforestation regulations. He emphasised the vital role of forests for both humanity and the planet, urging immediate action. Key areas of cooperation between the EU and Amazon countries, including engagement in multilateral forums (such as the Paris Agreement and Global Biodiversity Framework), increased financing for forest and biodiversity conservation, sustainable supply chains, and scientific collaboration, were highlighted.

Moreover, the mission provided a platform to showcase the EU's technical and financial support for the region.  The new EUR 35 million Amazonia+ programme funded by the EU was presented in Leticia. This initiative, co-launched by Commissioner Sinkevičius and Susana Mohamad, Minister of Environment and Sustainable Development of Colombia, with the participation of other ministers from beneficiary Amazon countries, signifies the EU's dedication to preventing deforestation, addressing wildfires, and empowering indigenous communities in environmental decision-making.

The pre-Amazon summit showcased the ambitions shared by President Lula and President Petro concerning global climate and environmental challenges.

In his speech, President Lula stressed the need for an integrated sustainable development agenda for the Amazon, led by a revamped ACTO/OCTA. He emphasised the importance of Amazon countries determining their own course of action and highlighted challenges such as food insecurity, environmental crimes, biopiracy, land grabbing, and human rights violations, particularly affecting indigenous communities and women. President Lula called for collective action by forest countries in international forums and insisted on common but differentiated responsibility. He urged wealthy nations to honour their commitment of USD 100 billion annually in climate finance. Additionally, he emphasised that the Amazon is home to over 26 million people and should not be seen solely as an "ecological sanctuary," stressing the need for fair and sustainable solutions for both the environment and its residents.

President of Colombia Gustavo Petro focused on climate change as the central challenge to life itself. He called for a profound shift away from fossil fuels, particularly in the Amazon, and spoke of a significant -76% reduction in deforestation in the Colombian Amazon. Mr Petro highlighted the need for a different development approach beyond technology, suggesting alternatives like science, ecotourism, and the bioeconomy. 

The way forward

The Pre-Amazon Summit laid the groundwork for the upcoming Amazon Summit, where the leaders of the eight Amazon countries are expected to adopt an ambitious joint declaration and provide guidance for national and regional cooperation within the framework of ACTO/OCTA. While the detailed outcomes of the event are pending, it has generated optimism by fostering stakeholder engagement and active participation across various sectors, including academia, NGOs, local governments and the private sector.

Commissioner Sinkevičius's mission to Leticia, Colombia, highlighted the EU's commitment to protecting the Amazon and paved the way for enhanced cooperation and sustainable development in the region. As the EU continues its collaboration with Amazon countries, the Amazonia+ programme and other initiatives will play a pivotal role in ensuring the conservation of this invaluable ecosystem for future generations.

More information:

·         Speech of Commissioner Sinkevičius

·         Speech by the President of the Republic, Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva