Context: The 20th Conference of Parties (CoP20) to CITES was held in Samarkand, Uzbekistan.
Key Highlights of CoP20
Species Added: 77 species were added to CITES appendices.
oNotable inclusions in Appendix I:
§Oceanic whitetip shark
§Whale shark
India’s Stand: Successfully opposed the EU proposal to list guggul in Appendix II, citing need for comprehensive population assessments first.
Significance of CoP20
Strengthens global biodiversity conservation.
Highlights the need for science-based decision-making in trade regulation.
Reaffirms India’s proactive role in safeguarding species like guggul, balancing conservation with sustainable use.
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