Bonn, 3 April 2012 - The Secretariats of the Convention on Migratory Species (CMS) and Ramsar have decided to renew the formal foundation of their long-standing collaboration.

The new Joint Work Plan (JWP) for the period 2012-2014 concentrates on tangible goals. It was endorsed by the 38th meeting of the CMS Standing Committee preceding CMS COP10 in November 2011. Ramsar COP11 is expected to approve it.

Relevant CMS instruments were involved in the drafting the JWP which will serve as a basis for additional plans between Ramsar and CMS daughter agreements. Many Resolutions adopted by CMS COP10 relate to the work of Ramsar and are therefore reflected in the JWP.

The plan covers a wide array of activities ranging from managing species populations and wetland ecosystems to the joint implementation of information, outreach and capacity building initiatives. The two organizations are joining hands, for instance, to further promote the use of existing critical site networks, including Ramsar sites, to achieve their goals. They also intend to create synergies to better address impacts of climate change on biodiversity.

In addition, they will tackle specific challenges such as the emergence and spread of animal diseases. In accordance with CMS Res.10.22, which highlights the importance of the Ramsar manual on animal disease in wetlands, a new Scientific Task Force on Wildlife and Ecosystem Health was established. It continues the efforts of the Task Force on Avian Influenza and Wild Birds .

Ramsar remains a key partner for conserving flyways on a global scale. The World Wetlands Day and World Migratory Bird Day campaigns will benefit from mutual support of both partners.

The collaboration will not entail significant extra cost. If needed, both organizations will jointly seek external funding. While strengthening their coordination and ccooperation to conduct joint activities , the two Convention Secretariats expect to maximize efficiency and available funds.