President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu of the Maldives met with United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres on the sidelines of COP29, the UN’s annual climate change conference, held this year in Baku, Azerbaijan. The high-level meeting focused on the pressing challenges faced by Small Island Developing States (SIDS) due to climate change.
The President’s Office said President Muizzu highlighted the significant financial obstacles that SIDS face as they adapt to climate-related threats, calling for increased international financial assistance during this meeting. He also addressed the escalating debt burdens of small island nations, explaining that these challenges compromise their ability to implement effective climate resilience initiatives. The President extended his gratitude for the UN’s steadfast support of SIDS and its efforts to bring their unique vulnerabilities to the forefront of global climate discussions.
Secretary-General Guterres, in turn, reaffirmed his commitment to championing the cause of SIDS on the world stage. He acknowledged the critical role of international financial institutions in alleviating the economic strains on SIDS and emphasized ongoing efforts to engage these institutions to support climate resilience initiatives for vulnerable nations.
The meeting concluded with both leaders reaffirming a shared dedication to bolstering climate resilience and enhancing collaboration on other development priorities crucial to SIDS. President Muizzu’s participation in COP29, alongside this important dialogue with the UN Secretary-General, underscores the Maldives’ active role in international climate diplomacy and its commitment to securing a sustainable future for all small island nations.
