CONSERVING and protecting forests and ecosystems is one of the most effective nature-based solutions in responding to climate change, President of the Republic of the Union of Myanmar U Min Aung Hlaing said at the second national-level monsoon tree-growing ceremony for 2026 near Tawwin Yadana Road in Dekkhinathiri Township yesterday morning.
Speaking on the occasion, the President underlined that various countries around the world place emphasis on promoting a green and sustainable environment, renewable energy production, and the green economy, including initiatives such as the green revolution, green energy, and the green economy.
He recounted that Myanmar has established 1,337 forest reserves and protected public forests, accounting for 26.11 per cent of the total land area of the State as well as 62 natural conservation areas covering 6.59 per cent of the land area.
He stressed the need to reach the 50 per cent coverage of forest across the nation, up from 42.15 per cent coverage in 2025.
The President noted that according to the 2026 climate risk index of some international climate monitoring organizations, Myanmar has been included among the countries likely to experience the hottest years in recorded history in 2026 and 2027. It is stated that climate change and the El Niño phenomenon may have adverse impacts on various sectors, and therefore, preparations are required in all aspects.
He stated that the international communities around the world are transforming their cities into more livable and climate-resilient urban areas through concepts and initiatives such as “Cool Cities”, “Healthy Cities”, “Green Infrastructure”, and “Green Space”.
As such, he continued that it is necessary to place emphasis on increasing Green Spaces in the country through the development of urban forests, greening of road sides, and expansion of urban parks, among other initiatives.
He revealed that the Union Territory of Nay Pyi Taw is being developed as a Green City, Clean City, and Smart City, with primary emphasis placed on environmental greening and sustainability efforts.
The President underscored that it is also necessary to successfully plant a total of 21.36 million trees planned for this year in various areas, including the 13 districts of the tropical region, railway lines, the verges along ASEAN highways and roadsides, the Bagan ancient cultural zone, areas around Inlay Lake and coastal regions, designated green areas within cities, and village fuelwood plantations for rural communities.
At the ceremony, the President planted a gum-kilo sapling at the designated location.
Vice-Presidents U Nyo Saw and Nan Ni Ni Aye, Speaker of Amyotha Hluttaw U Aung Lin Dwe, Commander-in-Chief of Defence Services General Ye Win Oo, Union-level dignitaries, Union ministers, the Nay Pyi Taw Council Chairman, chief ministers of regions and states, deputy ministers, Hluttaw representatives, departmental personnel, teachers and students participated in the tree-growing activities.
The President and party viewed round the participation of attendees in growing saplings.
They planted 3,000 saplings of 14 species including Mesua ferrea, starflower, gum-kino, teak, ironwood, mahogany and so on. — MNA/ TTA
