New York, 21 April 2016: "We must be prepared to work in partnerships, recognizing the inter-linkages between prosperity, social mobility, and environmental protection, understanding the consequences of our individual actions on our common home", said Minster of the Environment and Energy of the Republic of the Maldives, His Excellency Mr. Thoriq Ibrahim.
Speaking at the High Level Thematic Debate on achieving the Sustainable Development Goals convened by the 70th President of the United Nations General Assembly, on behalf of the members of the Alliance of Small Island States (AOSIS) Minister Thoriq assured that the Governments and peoples of SIDS are fully committed to achieving the new Agenda. He added that the worsening impacts of climate change create particular challenges for SIDS and can make achieving the SDGs impossible. He called on the UN Development System to step up to the task of assisting SIDS, so that they would not be left behind.
Noting the importance of partnerships in this endeavor for Small Island Developing States, Minister Thoriq highlighted that SIDS have already taken several steps to place themselves in a position to engage in genuine and durable partnerships through the establishment of a SIDS Partnership Framework and a Steering Committee. He also added that the establishment of SIDS DOCK was another important venture by SIDS to help with the pressing need of SIDS transition to a green, low-carbon, energy efficient economies.
Adding few remarks at the end in his national capacity, Minister Thoriq highlighted the challenges posed by plastic pollution, to the sustainable use of oceans of the world and its biodiversity in Maldives and other SIDS. He called for global action in this regard, to ensure the conservation and sustainable use of oceans, seas and marine resources.
Minister Thoriq will participate in the other planned activities for the day-long Debate driving home the SIDS agenda, whiles highlighting the unique challenges faced by SIDS in achieving the SDGs.
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