U.S. Congratulates Indonesia, Brunei and Malaysia 
on Signing of “Heart of Borneo” Declaration

February 13, 2007

Bahasa Indonesia

The United States applauds the visions of the Governments of Indonesia, Brunei Darussalam and Malaysia in signing a declaration in Bali on February 12 pledging to work together to establish a network of protected areas and to ensure the conservation and effective management of forest resources in the Heart of Borneo region. The 220,000 square kilometer area shared by the three countries holds a treasure of vibrant tropical rainforest that is home to a vast array of unique flora and fauna.

In July 2006, Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice announced a pledge of $100,000 to support this nascent regional initiative and its focus on combating illegal logging and wildlife trafficking. The first portion of the U.S. funds was distributed to the World Wildlife Fund to assist in the development with the three countries of a conservation plan for the Heart of Borneo. The remaining financial support will be disbursed through the International Tropical Timber Organization for future projects to enhance transboundary collaboration under the initiative.

United States support for the Heart of Borneo initiative significantly enhances U.S. international conservation objectives under the President's Initiative Against Illegal Logging (PIAIL) and the Coalition Against Wildlife Trafficking (CAWT). The PIAIL, launched in 2003, consolidates U.S. Government efforts, in alliance with industry and non-governmental organizations, to help developing countries improve forest governance and undertake sustainable forest management. The CAWT is a global partnership of governments and international and non-governmental organizations dedicated to ending the illegal trade in wildlife and wildlife products.

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