HONOLULU - Spear-throwers in traditional dress greeted rowers aboard a double-hulled canoe at a beachside ceremony Thursday to open a major world conservation meeting in Hawaii, where leaders urged respect for the Earth, its natural resources and indigenous cultures. It is the largest group ever to attend the World Conservation Congress, which is held every four years and is being convened in the United States for the first time, said IUCN Director General Inger Andersen. At the opening ceremony, Hawaii Governor David Ige unveiled new statewide plans to ramp up renewable energy use and protect the oceans while respecting indigenous rights. President Barack Obama also visited Hawaii as the conference got underway, holding talks with Pacific leaders. Interior Secretary Sally Jewell said the World Conservation Congress talks will seek to forge a path forward on balancing progress with protection for wildlife and water.

Source: Bangkok Post September 01, 2016 23:48 UTC