'The FCO will provide up to =A350,000 for technical and other assistance over environmental threats to the Galapagos Islands. We are particularly concerned to help the Government of Ecuador ensure that shipping and fishing activities do not damage the rich biodiversity of the islands and undermine the integrity of this flagship World Heritage Site.'
Notes for Editors
1. This =A350,000 will come from the FCO's Environmental Project Fund. The total FCO Environmental Project Fund for FY 2000 - 2001 is approximately =A31 million.
2. The Galapagos Islands gained World Heritage Site status in 1978 under the World Heritage Convention.
3. Over the period 1997 to 2003, the DETR has committed almost =A3500,000 under the Darwin initiative for local projects to help conserve the Galapagos Islands' biodiversity.