HAVANA, Nov. 10 (Xinhua) -- International cooperation is fundamental to tackling the challenges of today's world, the head of the Association of Caribbean States (ACS) said Thursday during the opening ceremony of the 6th ACS International Cooperation Conference in the Cuban capital of Havana.
"Preserving natural habitats is crucial in the battle against climate change. It requires a radical change in the use and consumption of natural resources as well as in waste management," ACS Secretary General Rodolfo Sabonge said.
He noted that the reduction of disaster risks in the region and the development of tourism are also fundamental to ACS member states.
Cuban Minister of Foreign Trade and Investment Rodrigo Malmierca added, "This conference will open realistic opportunities for promoting regional integration and sustainable development for our peoples, giving impetus to our cooperation bonds."
The meeting, which will run through Friday, is set to discuss transformation and innovation in the Caribbean, economic relations, and tourism and biodiversity, among other topics.
The opening ceremony was attended by Cuban President Miguel Diaz-Canel and senior government officials from the Caribbean. ■