Sri Lanka (Commonwealth Union)_ Hollywood actor Jason Momoa, renowned for his role in the movie Aquaman, has conveyed his wishes to Sri Lanka in light of the island’s recent recognition as a UN World Restoration Flagship. Sri Lanka earned this distinction for its notable efforts in the rejuvenation and preservation of mangrove ecosystems, a commendable achievement on the global stage.
In a video message presented by the United Nations, Jason Momoa, serving as an advocate for life below water under the United Nations Environment Programme, applauded Sri Lanka’s endeavors in restoring its coastal areas and oceans, particularly in the aftermath of the tsunami disaster. Jason Momoa conveyed his wishes in the video, lauding Sri Lanka’s commitment to environmental restoration. He said, “Congratulations Sri Lanka. Mahalo for working together to create positive change. You are the example. All my Aloha”.
Responding to Momoa’s commendation and his advocacy for environmental conservation, Julie Chung, the US Ambassador to Sri Lanka, extended a cordial invitation for the Hollywood actor to witness firsthand Sri Lanka’s efforts in mangrove restoration and to explore its diverse marine ecosystem. Ambassador Chung took to X and posted a statement, saying, “Hey #JasonMomoa, your admiration and @UNEP support for Sri Lanka’s environmental efforts and using your voice to increase awareness of the urgency to #SaveOurOcean is inspiring! As US Ambassador to Sri Lanka, I invite you to come experience the beauty of Sri Lanka’s mangrove restoration firsthand and dive into the depths of our strong US-Sri Lanka partnership”.
The Ambassador’s invitation coincided with Momoa’s praise of Sri Lanka’s UN World Restoration Flagship status, highlighting the alignment of Momoa’s advocacy with Sri Lanka’s environmental goals. In the video statement as the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) Advocate for Life Below Water, Momoa praised Sri Lanka’s initiatives, emphasizing the importance of collaborative efforts in combating climate change and preserving natural ecosystems.
Momoa stated, “As a native Hawaiian, I saw the impacts of climate change firsthand this year, the devastating lines of fires. We urgently need to revive the health of our lands, coasts, and oceans. After the tsunami, the island of Sri Lanka had to build back, and they did it using the power of nature as a solution versus fighting against it. I want to celebrate Sri Lanka for its recognition as the UN World Restoration Flagship. In the country, citizens and partners are working together to naturally generate 10,000 hectares of mangrove forest by 2030 to fortify the coastline. Congratulations, Sri Lanka. Mahalo for working together to create positive change. You are the example. All my Aloha”.
Echoing admiration for Momoa’s dedication to UNEP causes, Ambassador Chung reiterated the invitation for the Aquaman star to explore Sri Lanka’s picturesque coastlines and delve into its rich marine biodiversity. “Ready to trade the depths of Atlantis for the crystal waters and mesmerizing shipwrecks off the coast of Sri Lanka? #VisitSriLanka #YoullComeBackForMore (video credit: @UNSriLanka),” added Ambassador Chung. The hashtags #VisitSriLanka and #YoullComeBackForMore emphasized Sri Lanka Tourism’s encouragement to experience the country firsthand, inviting visitors to explore its natural beauty and cultural heritage.
Declared a UN World Restoration Flagship on February 14, Sri Lanka’s achievement reflects its commitment to environmental conservation and sustainable development. The award ceremony at the United Nations Environmental Assembly in Nairobi on February 27, 2024, will further underscore Sri Lanka’s contributions to global ecosystem restoration efforts. Additionally, the Wildlife and Nature Protection Society (WNPS) lauded Sri Lanka’s utilization of the UN’s Principles for ecosystem restoration, viewing the award as a testament to the nation’s effective conservation practices and its potential to serve as a model for restoration initiatives worldwide.
