Dr. Emmanuel Urey Yarkpawolo joins global leaders in shaping the future of high seas biodiversity at landmark United Nations session on the Global Ocean Treaty.
New York, April 15, 2025 — Liberia has taken a significant step toward international environmental cooperation. The participation of the Executive Director of the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), Dr. Emmanuel K. Urey Yarkpawolo, in a historic United Nations meeting highlights Liberia commitment on protecting marine biodiversity beyond national jurisdictions through efforts such as the Global Ocean Treaty.
Dr. Urey Yarkpawolo is attending the first session of the Preparatory Commission for the Agreement on the Conservation and Sustainable Use of Marine Biological Diversity of Areas Beyond National Jurisdiction (BBNJ Agreement). This is being held at the United Nations Headquarters in New York from April 14 to 25, 2025. This event is part of the Global Ocean Treaty initiative.
The BBNJ Agreement was adopted in June 2023 under the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea. This marks a groundbreaking international treaty designed to protect biodiversity in the high seas. These are marine areas outside the control of any single nation. This aligns with objectives outlined in the Global Ocean Treaty.
The agreement, part of the larger Global Ocean Treaty framework, emphasizes fair sharing of benefits from marine genetic resources. Dr. Yarkpawolo’s involvement signifies Liberia’s growing commitment to sustainable ocean management and global environmental governance, crucial components of the Global Ocean Treaty.
Joining Dr. Yarkpawolo in the Liberian delegation are: Cllr. Rosetta Nagbe Jackollie, Assistant Minister for Legal Affairs. Atty. Anthony Toe. Twe and Ms. Jengeih Tamba, Liberia Maritime Authority. Mr. Michael Garbo, Executive Director of the Society for Conservation of Nature of Liberia (SCNL).
The delegation is supported by the Permanent Mission of Liberia to the United Nations. It is led by Ambassador Lewis G. Brown II. His team has played a key role in ensuring Liberia’s strong presence and participation in the discussions related to the Global Ocean Treaty.
This engagement positions Liberia among nations committed to securing the future of ocean resources through agreements like the Global Ocean Treaty.
