Minister of Foreign Affairs, Abdulla Shahid, on Saturday emphasised the critical need for a transition towards clean, reliable, and climate-friendly energy sources. He made the statement during a round-table discussion on pursuing green opportunities and overcoming global challenges at the EU Indo-Pacific Ministerial Forum in Stockholm, Sweden. Minister Shahid underscored the importance of political commitment, cooperation, and partnerships in realising the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development.
The round-table discussion was co-moderated by Minister Shahid and EU Commissioner for Energy Kadri Simson. Key topics included making green energy affordable and accessible, promoting renewable energy, tackling biodiversity loss and pollution, and addressing the growing energy demand in the Indo-Pacific region. By shedding light on these critical aspects, the participants discussed strategies and solutions that promote sustainability while considering the diverse needs and capacities of different countries. The participants also noted the significance of partnerships in promoting energy diversification through increased investment and the utilisation of technology for achieving green transitions, citing initiatives such as the upcoming Climate Change Conference 2023 and the EU Global Gateway as examples.
During the discussion, Minister Shahid highlighted the Maldives’ commitment to a sustainable net-zero future. As an archipelago comprised of over 1200 coral islands and sandbanks, the Maldives faces significant threats from climate change. The government has set an ambitious target to achieve a sustainable net-zero future by 2030. As part of this commitment, the Maldives has already implemented several measures, including a total ban on the production and sales of single-use plastics, effective from June 1st, 2022.
The EU Indo-Pacific Ministerial Forum serves as a platform for reinforcing the European Union’s strategic focus, presence, and actions in the Indo-Pacific region. Guided by a long-term perspective, the EU aims to contribute to the stability, security, prosperity, and sustainable development of the region, based on the promotion of democracy, the rule of law, human rights, and international law.