Mariam Almheiri Represents UAE At Hamburg Sustainability Conference To Promote Global Collaboration

Representing President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Mariam Almheiri led the UAE delegation at the Hamburg Sustainability Conference (HSC). The event was opened by Germany’s Chancellor Olaf Scholz. Almheiri's involvement, alongside officials from the Ministry of Climate Change and Environment and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, highlights the UAE's dedication to addressing global sustainability, energy, and humanitarian issues.

Almheiri remarked on the conference's significance: "From policymakers to CEOs, scientists to civil society leaders, the Hamburg Sustainability Conference brings together the diverse voices and perspectives needed to drive systemic change and achieve the SDGs." This reflects the UAE's approach at COP28 last year, focusing on solutions rather than just identifying problems. The UAE aims to share innovative ideas and inspire bold actions.

During her visit, Almheiri engaged in strategic discussions with German officials such as Dr. Peter Tschentscher, Svenja Schulze, and Niels Annen. She stressed the strong partnership between the UAE and Germany. Almheiri stated, "The UAE deeply values its partnership with Germany. Our collaboration, built on mutual respect and shared objectives, is a driving force for positive change – from advancing sustainable development and addressing climate change to fostering peace and stability in the region and beyond."

The meetings focused on building upon COP28 successes and advancing initiatives like the UAE Consensus. Discussions also included international co-operation efforts like mangrove conservation through the Green Coast Initiative. They explored Hamburg's progress in developing a hydrogen market for potential collaboration.

The HSC 2024 brought together 1,600 participants from 102 countries to discuss accelerating action towards UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The conference featured three forums: Reshaping International Financial Architecture, Unleashing Investments for SDGs, and Leveraging Transformation. Five hubs addressed annually changing SDG-based topics: Resilient Food Systems, Responsible AI & Digitalisation, Green Energy & Net Zero, Empowering Societies, and Future Cities.

The conference is a collaborative effort by Germany’s Federal Ministry for Economic Co-operation and Development (BMZ), United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), Michael Otto Foundation, and Hamburg city. It aims to transform challenges into opportunities through international dialogue.

Business Luncheon Insights

On the second day of HSC 2024, Almheiri joined German business leaders from companies like Bayer and Airbus for a Business Luncheon. They discussed enhancing economic ties between the UAE and Germany's private sector. This interaction underscores efforts to foster greater business integration between both nations.

Germany’s Development Minister Svenja Schulze addressed delegates about international co-operation challenges. She said: "The principle of international co-operation is under enormous pressure worldwide." Schulze emphasised that global challenges require collective efforts rather than isolated national actions.

Strategic Importance of Hamburg

Hamburg's First Mayor Peter Tschentscher highlighted its strategic role in promoting global co-operation due to its major seaport and numerous consulates. He stated that these connections facilitate excellent links across continents.

The inaugural Hamburg Sustainability Conference aimed at removing barriers to achieving SDGs while transforming challenges into opportunities through various forums and hubs focused on SDG-based topics.

The event showcased how meaningful dialogue can lead to progress in creating a sustainable future. Almheiri's participation demonstrated UAE’s proactive role in fostering international collaboration on critical issues affecting our world today.

With inputs from WAM