ADFD Convenes Arab Coordination Group In Vienna To Foster Sustainable Development

Mohammed Saif Al Suwaidi, Director-General of Abu Dhabi Fund for Development (ADFD), led the 19th annual meeting of the Arab Coordination Group's heads in Vienna, Austria. The theme was "Partnerships for a Better Future." Representatives from various organisations attended, including the Islamic Development Bank Group and the Kuwait Fund for Arab Economic Development.

The discussions centred on the group's efforts to promote sustainable development in developing countries. Key topics included infrastructure and healthcare projects, food security, and clean energy initiatives. The meeting also reviewed mutual interests and strategies to address economic challenges, social issues, climate change, and food security in partner countries.

Emphasis was placed on collaborative efforts to tackle climate change, with contributions from group members supporting sustainable development projects. Additionally, the group discussed the outcomes of COP 28 and preparations for the 29th session, which will be held in Baku, Azerbaijan, from 11th to 22nd November.

The participation of ACG in COP16 of the United Nations Convention to Combat Desertification (UNCCD) was also discussed. To be hosted by Saudi Arabia in Riyadh from 2nd to 13th December, the event aims to support projects to combat desertification and reclaim agricultural lands, support small farmers and provide them with the necessary funds to contribute to Sustainable development goals.

Acknowledging the UAE’s efforts guided by its leadership to promote renewable energy projects in countries most vulnerable to climate change, Al Suwaidi added that the government is committed to highlighting ACG’s exceptional role in global sustainable development and finding innovative solutions to support partner countries and enhancing their prosperity. "It is crucial to continue highlighting our efforts, improving ACG’s media communication, and strengthening coordination among members," he stressed.

Mohamed Saif Al Suwaidi highlighted the significance of this meeting as the Arab Coordination Group approaches 50 years of sustainable development efforts. "Over these decades, we have achieved major milestones in economic and social progress. As we face contemporary global challenges, particularly the impacts of climate change, our commitment to promoting economic development remains steadfast. Now, more than ever, we must intensify our collaborative efforts across all fields to continue making a positive impact," he said.

Collaborative Efforts

The Arab Coordination Group works together to share diverse skills, qualifications, and experiences. They exchange knowledge and implement innovative initiatives effectively to support developing countries and advance sustainable development goals among member countries.

Representatives from various organisations attended the meeting including the Qatar Fund for Development, the Arab Fund for Economic and Social Development, OPEC Fund for International Development, Arab Bank for Economic Development in Africa (BADEA), Arab Gulf Programme for Development (AGFUND), and Arab Monetary Fund (AMF).

The discussions focused on coordination group's efforts towards promoting sustainable development in developing countries. Key topics included infrastructure projects like healthcare facilities as well as food security measures alongside clean energy initiatives.

In conclusion, Mohammed Saif Al Suwaidi emphasised that collaborative efforts are essential for tackling contemporary global challenges such as climate change while continuing economic development initiatives.

With inputs from WAM