Notification 2017-005

Dear Madam/Sir, In paragraph 15 of decision XIII/12, the Conference of the Parties to the Convention on Biological Diversity invited Parties, as appropriate, to consider designating national focal points for the programme of work on marine and coastal biodiversity in support of the Convention’s national focal point, to facilitate effective and coordinated communication in support of the implementation of the Convention’s programme of work on marine and coastal biodiversity. I invite Parties to submit to the Secretariat the name and contact details of national focal points for the programme of work on marine and coastal biodiversity, so designated, at the earliest convenience and preferably no later than 1 May 2017. The responsibilities of designated national focal points for this programme of work could include, inter alia, supporting the CBD National Focal Point on the following: • Identifying experts for meetings and workshops on marine and coastal biodiversity organized by the Secretariat; • Facilitating implementation of activities to achieve the Aichi Biodiversity Targets relevant to marine and coastal biodiversity; and • Submitting information, views or peer-review comments in response to notifications related to marine and coastal biodiversity. I would like to thank Parties in advance for your cooperation in this matter, and for your continued support of the work of the Convention. Please accept, Madam/Sir, the assurances of my highest consideration.

Executive Secretary

To: CBD National Focal Points