Ecuador and Canada are exploring technical cooperation to improve wildfire management. On January 15, the Ministry of Environment and Energy, in coordination with the Canadian Embassy in Ecuador, hosted a delegation from the Canadian Interagency Forest Fire Centre (CIFFC).
At the opening of the event, Alicia Jaramillo, Vice Minister of Environment and Coastal Marine Affairs, emphasized the longstanding experience of CIFFC. “For more than 40 years, CIFFC has brought together various agencies and led international cooperation mechanisms. Its results and experience in collaboration models and interoperability represent a strategic contribution for countries facing fire-related risks,” she said.
Canadian Ambassador Craig Kowalik highlighted Ecuador’s progress and Canada’s focus on international cooperation. “Fire is no longer just a local challenge; it is a phenomenon that requires integrated responses based on operational trust, tactical coordination, and shared experience to protect our natural resources and the safety of our people,” he stated.
Over two days, the Canadian delegation—led by executive director Kelsey Winter—alongside representatives from Ecuador’s Ministry of Environment and Energy, National Secretariat for Risk Management, and Quito Metropolitan District Fire Department participated in field sessions. They reviewed planning tools, wildfire response protocols, collaboration models, and institutional interoperability.
Wildfire risk is increasing globally due to climate change, ecosystem pressures, and overuse of fire. Canada’s advanced forest fire management system offers an opportunity for Ecuador to develop technical skills as well as logistical and operational capacities.
Integrated Fire Management in Ecuador aims to prevent fires and prepare timely responses to events that can significantly impact biodiversity, infrastructure, food security, water resources, and socioeconomic development.
The government led by President Daniel Noboa Azin has reiterated its commitment to strengthening international partnerships for training specialized personnel, improving emergency response times, and learning from global experiences to address forest emergencies effectively.
