I am an editorial writer at The Korea Times, focusing on foreign policy, North Korea and domestic politics. My key areas of interest include North Korea, foreign interference in elections, election integrity, cyberattacks and human rights. Prior to joining the Editorial Board, I served as both Politics Desk editor and Culture Desk editor. During my career, I have reported on the Presidential Office under the Lee Myung-bak administration, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the National Assembly.
Global green institute launched
By Kang Hyun-kyung
The Seoul-based Global Green Growth Institute (GGGI) think tank was officially launched Tuesday as an international research organization, signaling President Lee Myung-bak’s signature initiative has born fruit.
In a press release, Cheong Wa Dae said this is the result of President Lee’s summit diplomacy striving to draw support from like-minded nations, and Korea’s good practices in green growth.
Korea has set aside 2 percent of its gross domestic product for investment into green technology and businesses, and has passed five key legislative measures, including a carbon trading bill.
“The GGGI launch as an international institution reflects world recognition and trust in Korea’s efforts and sincerity for green growth,” the presidential office said.
It noted Seoul set the agenda and successfully attracted support for its initiative from the international community.
Speaking to an inaugural meeting held at the Shilla Hotel in Seoul, President Lee called on the institute to draw up tailored policy and strategy for developing nations.
Lee called for “a green triangle” of strategy, financial resources and technology, saying this will help governments to achieve a green world earlier.
Lars Rasmussen, the GGGI board chairman, said the institute needs to play an instrumental role in spreading green growth as a new paradigm for growth.
The launch of the GGGI as an international organization came days after Songdo, a city built on reclaimed land near Incheon west of Seoul, was chosen as the host for the Green Climate Fund (GCF).
Seoul officials hope the global effort for green growth will gain momentum as the combination of the strategy and the fund will create a synergy effect.
Nearly 300 guests, including delegations from 18 member countries, foreign envoys based in Seoul and heads of international institutions, participated in the inaugural meeting.
U.N. Secretary General Ban Ki-moon delivered a congratulatory message via video.
Ban promised the U.N. will team up with the GGGI to achieve sustainable growth and create a fair community.
The institute was established as a non-profit foundation in June, 2010. Since then, South Korea has contributed $10 million annually for the operation of the institute.
Over the past years, the GGI has backed green growth efforts in 17 governments, including Brazil, Ethiopia and Indonesia. Dozens of state projects and 13 research projects are underway in those countries.
The global think tank will help developing nations in their efforts to achieve low carbon, green growth by drawing up a set of strategies and guidelines.